PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS
Our new Philoptochos Circle format is off to a great start, with nine circles formed so far. Dozens and dozens of women have signed up to become members of various circles. Many women who previously were not actively involved in Philoptochos have recently become Philoptochos members as a result of this reorganization -- 113 to be exact. This is the most members we've ever had!
Remember, all ladies of the parish are welcome to form their own circles, or join one of the existing circles, described below:
ABIGAIL CIRCLE – The focus of the Abigail Circle is based on the words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew 25:35: "I was a stranger and you welcomed me." The Abigail circle will extend the hospitality of the entire parish through special events and receptions designed to make visitors feel loved and welcome at Saint Katherine. Contact Athina Holland for additional information.
ANNA CIRCLE – The focus of our Philoptochos Circle is ministering to women and children in crisis. Some charities we will be assisting are Chicks in Crises, Women Escaping A Violent Environment (WEAVE), The Mother-Baby Clinic of the Sacramento Food Bank, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Whether it is assisting women facing an unplanned pregnancy, helping women provide for their children and protect themselves from abusive relationships, or helping to find a cure for breast cancer, our focus is to support women during crisis periods in their lives, and to help them care for themselves and their most sacred responsibilities--their children. All Philoptochos Sisters are welcome--just bring your hearts and your ideas. Contact Alision Aleman for additional information.
MARY MAGDELINE CIRCLE – This circle will have the responsibility of coordinating and scheduling the coffee hours following the Divine Liturgy on Sundays. Contact Presvytera Chrisoula for additional information.
JOANNA CIRCLE – The Joanna Circle will dedicate its efforts to helping homeless teens through the WIND program of Sacramento. Contact Carol Hedrick for additional information.
LEAH CIRCLE – Leah Circle will seek to further awareness of childhood emotional health and mental illness. Contact Georgia Jenkins-Wenger for additional information.
RACHEL CIRCLE – The focus of the Rachel Circle will be on organizing and coordinating events to raise funds for Philoptochos charities and ministries. Contact Mary Scordakis for additional information.
REBECCA CIRCLE – The Rebecca Circle will concentrate on using their skills in making hand-crafted items using yarn, thread, and cloth, etc. to raise funds for Philoptochos charities. Contact Helen Pappademos for additional information.
SARAH CIRCLE (FOR KIDS’ SAKE) – Our goal is to help sick & needy children locally and globally. Among the programs we are considering supporting are the Northern California Ronald McDonald House, Mercy Corps, UNICEF, and the National Childhood Cancer Foundation. Contact Georgia Andritsakis for additional information.
SUSANNA CIRCLE – In keeping with the National Philoptochos program, the Susanna Circle is committed to meeting the needs of the families within our parish. This embraces and supports interfaith marriages, newcomers, single parents, youth involvement, and parenting. Our church family will be strengthened spiritually and socially by its participation in these programs. Contact Sonata Abbott for additional information.