National Philoptochos Society

It was more than 2,000 years ago when the Angel appeared to the shepherds tending their flocks on that miraculous night when our Lord and Saviour was born in Bethlehem. It was a moving experience, possibly frightening, for the persons living in the fields as this was an authentic occasion. God sent His messenger, the Angel Gabriel, to announce this greatest and most significant birth for the salvation of us all.

Then the Angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people..." Luke 2:10

Instantly there appeared with Gabriel a multitude of angels praising God and singing:

Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men! Luke 2:14

God communicates with actions and via angels. With advancing technology today we access, on a moment's notice, anyone around the globe in order to share ideas that are significant and that should be manifested in forgiveness, compassion and love.

Similar to the communicating angels, we must be evangelists ourselves regardless which format we choose to disseminate the message of love. Each day is a blessing and a gift from God and we are thankful for every day. It is with faith and love that the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society perpetuates the message of our Lord Jesus Christ and seeks to treat ill children, help the fragile elderly, assist students financially, offer friendship to the lonely, support our men and women in uniform overseas and provide so much for so many more.

Consider how best to commemorate the birth of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: through prayer and with deeper promise and renewed spirit to aid and to reach those most in need. The task at hand is to provide love and support to family, friends and to all. By acquiring the inner peace that comes at this great feast of The Nativity we receive the strength and courage to help others. The women of the Society strive to further the Philoptochos mission by offering their creative talents, standing united and relevant in today's constantly changing world.

This is the glorious time of year when we pray for guidance and correct choices, responsible lifestyle, generous stewardship, the gift of life and for embracing those in need.

May you and your families receive the blessings of the Lord and His bountiful gifts as we commemorate the birth of our Lord Jesus and may you continue to preserve Christmas as meaningful throughout your year and always.

With love and admiration in the Newborn King,

Aphrodite Skeadas