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Published by the
Greek Orthodox
Archdiocese of America, May 15, 2005
ENCYCLICAL OF
ARCHBISHOP DEMETRIOS FOR AHEPA SUNDAY, MAY
15, 2005 |
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Protocol 50/05
May 15, 2005
AHEPA Sunday
To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend
Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the
Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of
the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Day,
Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos
Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic
Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox
Family in America
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Christ is Risen!
It is in the joy of our celebration of the
Resurrection of Jesus Christ that I communicate
with you concerning the work of the American
Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA).
Since its founding in 1922, the AHEPA has
distinguished itself as an organization wholly
dedicated to the progress of our Omogeneia. Over
the decades, the members of the AHEPA have made
significant contributions to our American society
through establishing programs that promote
education, philanthropy, and civic responsibility.
Furthermore, the witness of the AHEPA to the
universal ideals of our Hellenic heritage and our
love of liberty for all humankind, has reached
persons of all races, cultures, and faiths who
reside in our beloved country.
As Greek Orthodox Christians living in America, we
give thanks to God for our Hellenic heritage, our
freedom, and especially our faith, which guides
our Archdiocese in promoting education and
philanthropy, and in bringing together communities
and families in Christ. We are therefore also
enriched by the continued good work of the AHEPA,
which serves our heritage and our faith, and
continues to cultivate excellence throughout its
many chapters in America and abroad.
Therefore, in recognition of the on-going work of
this progressive association in the service of our
heritage and our Orthodox Christian faith, Sunday,
May 15, 2005, is designated as AHEPA Sunday. I ask
that you offer your prayers and support for the
local AHEPA chapters, as well as the national
organization, as we labor together in the love and
light of our Risen Lord.
With paternal love in the Risen Christ,
+DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America
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