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Orthodox Observer - March 5, 1997

ELIOS Society Honors Archbishop
with Achievement Award

SAN FRANCISCO — During his pastoral visit to the Diocese in mid-February, Archbishop Spyridon received the second annual ELIOS Special Achievement Award at the Folk Dance Festival in Ontario, Calif.

Fanis Economidis, president of ELIOS, a Hellenic American organization dedicated to cultural and philanthropic interests, said that "beyond his numerous accomplishments prior to his elevation His Eminence Archbishop Spyridon, even in the early days in his ministry as our spiritual leader in America, has demonstrated great wisdom, humility and energy in his vision especially with the youth."

Bishop Anthony, the first recipient of the ELIOS award last year in San Francisco, commented, "The ELIOS Society and its members truly personify the qualities of the most positive attributes of our Hellenic and Orthodox heritage here in America. Their selection of His Eminence Archbishop Spyridon is truly an excellent choice, for the Archbishop is a product of our Church in the great country of America and also our Motherland. He continues the American dream with the fullness and richness of our Orthodox faith. An inaugural pastoral visit to his flock in the west and the Archbishop's interest and focus on our youth brings him to California to bear witness to the many dimensions of the Youth Ministry and wonderful faithful of our Diocese."

"The ELIOS Society's selection of His Eminence," added Peter Preovolos, FDF board chairman, "is especially significant given the Archbishop's American roots and the unique bridge he provides us linking past, present and future. We again thank ELIOS for their exemplary role in supporting the advancement of Hellenic heritage and culture for the benefit of our youth."

George Marcus, Awards Committee chairman and an ELIOS board member, said, "A number of our ELIOS board traveled to His Eminence's enthronement along with His Grace Bishop Anthony, last September and we were truly inspired. His vision and agenda for a Greek Orthodox faith of inclusiveness and the full participation of a total Greek Orthodox Church of our great country was on target."

[ Orthodox Observer - Vol. 62, No. 1124 - March 5, 1997 - p. 5 ]