Philoptochos

The Ladies Philoptochos Society is a national charitable organization that was established in the 1931 by the late Athenogoras I, then Archbishop of North and South America. The ministry was named Philoptochos, "friends of the poor." The 500 Philoptochos chapters in the US work to:

• To alleviate the suffering of those in need.
• To help the poor, destitute, hungry, aged, sick, unemployed, orphaned, imprisoned, widowed, and handicapped, as well as victims of disaster
  as well as undertake the burial of impoverished
  persons and offer assistance to anyone who may need the help of the Church.
• To better understand current social issues, to widen the scope of philanthropic endeavors.
• To provide opportunities to serve the church as part of stewardship.
• To inspire others in upholding the Orthodox faith.
• To provide friendship and fellowship with other Orthodox women.
• Champion of causes as they relate to the Orthodox Family and greater community.
• Reflect a hands-on approach to philanthropy.
• A Christian women's support group.

The St. Demetrios Philoptochos Society has supported this nationwide effort for many years by distributing funds raised through bake sales, donations, the annual fashion show and much more. The funds raised throughout the year benefit national, diocesan (Chicago), and local charities throughout our community.

The members of Philoptochos are dedicated parishoners (and men) who offer countless hours to the philanthropic, humanitarian, and Christian mission of the Church. In addition to these philanthropic endeavors, the Philoptochos chapters work to

• preserve the sacredness of the Orthodox family through family concern, service, unity of action;
• to perpetuate the Christian concept of marriage and upbringing of children and through it perpetuate
• promote the Greek Orthodox Faith and traditions in conformity with its doctrines, canons, discipline, divine worship, and customs.

Our primary aim is to promote the church's traditions, doctrines and canons through a variety of charitable and philanthropic activities. All parishioners are invited to become members and provide assistance to all those in need.

Learn about the National Philoptochos and their important programs.