December 19^th, 2017

Community Council Elections - Results! 
Congratulations to the following candidates elected to the Community Council, for the years 2018-2020:
     - Kathy Vasilakos-Marinakos
     - George Mylonas
     - Kathy Vlismas
     - John Yannitsos 
     - Nick Zannis

Christmas Hours
Members, please note the change to our Christmas schedule. 
     - Christmas Eve Morning:
        Matins & Divine Liturgy 9AM-12PM
     - Christmas Eve Vespers: 7PM-8:30pm
     - Christmas Day:
        Matins & Divine Liturgy 9AM-12PM 

Office Hours
Please note the following changes to the office hours:
     - December 25^th-28^th CLOSED
     - January 1^st-4^th CLOSED
     - January 8^th regular office hours will resume

Greek School
On December 16^th and 20^th, students and staff will be having a Christmas party for the last hour of class. There will be various activities as well as enjoying a Greek Christmas movie! Thank you to Gus' Cafe, Greco Pizza and Richmond's Pub for providing pizza at the Christmas party! Additionally, students, staff and families would like to extend their gratitude to the Cretan Society for recently donating a very generous amount to the Greek School! This will greatly assist in enhancing our program by purchasing technology items and other educational resources. Thank you!! 
Lastly, special thanks to the parents who provided a warm meal for the staff during our first Professional Development afternoon.
We wish you all a blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year! 

Philoptochos News
Please remember to bring socks for the homeless to the church by December 21^st!  Our New Years Eve Celebration has officially  SOLD OUT! After 10PM, there will be tickets available at the door for $20. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  

Sunday School
A reminder to all about our Christmas Nativity Play right after the Divine Liturgy in the church, the morning of December 24^th.  Those children wanting to be a part of the play are to meet the other students at the church pews at 11AM sharp! Merry Christmas to all!  

Epiphany 2018
The Blessing of Homes for Epiphany will take place on January 5^th, from 11AM to 9PM, and on January 6^th, from 1PM to 9PM. If you would like to receive the blessings of Epiphany for 2018, please fill out the form by clicking here and sending it to Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca.  

10^th Annual Poker Tournament
Join us on Saturday, January 27^th for our 10^th Annual Poker Tournament! Proceeds from the night will go towards the Hellenic Community of Calgary and the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Peter Lougheed Centre. Tickets for this wonderful event are $250 (includes the tournament buy in, prime rib dinner and all drinks) or $50 (includes the prime rib dinner and all drinks). Doors open at 5PMand dinner service will begin at 5:30PM. Call Gus at 403-998-3386 or Mitch at 403-862-9459 for tickets before January 20^th. For sponsorship opportunities, please call Diane at 403-616-3426. Jackets and some purple attire requested.

Fun Casino Night
Mark your calendars - the Daughters of Penelope and Ahepa are hosting their Fun Casino on February 10^th! For event details, cick here to visit their Facebook page. Tickets go fast, so be sure to get yours early by contacting Diane Polesello at 403-616-3426.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas & all the best in 2018!  

December 5^th, 2017

Community Council Elections
At the Interim General Meeting, seven (7) candidates name were brought forth to the delegation for elections. Only five (5) candidates will be elected to the Community Council. They are as follows:

     - Eleni Bistihas
     - Sakis Kalabalikis
     - Kathy Vasilakos-Marinakos
     - George Mylonas
     - Kathy Vlismas
     - John Yannitsos 
     - Nick Zannis
Voting will begin after the Divine Liturgy (12PM) and conclude at 5PM on Sunday, December 10^th.REMINDER: Only those members who have fulfilled their financial obligations for 2017 are permitted to vote. 

Membership Rate Changes
As was discussed and decided at the General Meeting in April, the rates and levels for membership have changed and will be applied to all 2018 renewals. They are as follows:
     - Family Membership $250
     - Senior Couple (65+) $150
     - Single Senior (65+) $75
     - Widow/er $75
     - Single (18-64) $150
     - Student (18-25); with ID $75
This increase in membership fees will potentially generate $20 000 more for our community! It is of vital importance that our membership continues to grow to ensure that the doors of our church and community remain open to us at all times! 

Greek School
Our Greek School teachers completed a professional development day on assessment and creating a new reporting method that will encompass growth in speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. We are beginning to create lessons that include all of these areas of learning and shift to student self-assessment and peer assessment of their progress. 
Parent-Teacher Conferences 
They will be held on December 6^th between 7pm -8pmand December 9^th between 11am -12pm. Please note that students will be dismissed prior to interviews commence and there will be no supervision during these times.
Christmas Gathering - Volunteers Needed!
On December 16^th & December 19^th, Greek School will be having a festive gathering. If parents are able to volunteer, please let Yanna or Fofo know by emailing them at principal@calgaryhellenic.com.  

Philoptochos News
We want to wish everyone all the best these days leading up to Christmas! Below is the schedule of events for Philoptochos this month.

• Sunday, December 10^th - MET Youth loukoumathes sale  (with the help of Philoptochos) and Philoptochos will have some desserts on sale that day as well.
  
• Thursday, December 14^th - Cleaning of the church (morning)
  
• Tuesday, December 19^th - Philoptochos Christmas Party 6PM (potluck)
  *Please bring new warm socks (mens) for the homeless
• ONGOING BAKE SALE - If you would like to purchase homemade desserts like: diples, kourabiethes, melomakarona, etc., please call Kathy Vlisma 403-836-3665.
  

Sunday School
Please join us on Christmas Eve morning, December 24^th,  right after the liturgy for our Christmas Nativity Play and carol singing which will take place in the church. For those children who are interested in participating in the play, please come on December 17^th and December 24^th in order to practice with us and then to perform in the play. There are no lines to memorize. If your child can only make the 24^th and has not been assigned a specific part, it is fine, we will still find a place for him/her in the play. We need stars for our starry night! We are looking for help from parents on December 17^th and December 24^th. We will need help getting the children into costumes, etc.  If you can, please come to the Sunday School classrooms to help out right after Holy Communion on those days as that would be greatly appreciated. We wish everyone a blessed Christmas!

Hitman Teddy Bear Toss
Watch the fur fly on Sunday, December 10^th at 2:00PM when the Calgary Hitmen take on the Moose Jaw Warriors! The Greek Community has secured a limited number of tickets for this fun event, so be sure to register here to secure your spot! Tickets are $15. 

Come and Support Met Youth Calgary!
On Sunday, December 10^th, with the help of Philoptochos, Met Youth Calgary will be hosting a loukoumades fundraiser after Divine Liturgy. We need youth (ages 12+) to sign up for volunteer positions. Please email us at orthodoxyouthcalgary@gmail.com as soon as possible!
Sock Drive
Once again this year, we will be collecting socks for the Calgary Drop In Centre! Please bring your new socks to the church by December 21^st. Let's make this a huge success again this year!
God Bless,
~Met Youth Calgary

10^th Annual Poker Tournament
Join us on Saturday, January 27^th for our 10^th Annual Poker Tournament! Proceeds from the night will go towards the Hellenic Community of Calgary and the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Peter Lougheed Centre. Tickets for this wonderful event are $250 (includes the tournament buy in, prime rib dinner and all drinks) or $50 (includes the prime rib dinner and all drinks). Doors open at 5PM and dinner service will begin at 5:30PM. Call Gus at 403-998-3386 or Mitch at 403-862-9459 for tickets before January 20^th. For sponsorship opportunities, please call Diane at 403-616-3426. Jackets and some purple attire requested.

November 21^st, 2017

Community Council Elections
At last Sunday's Interim General Meeting, seven (7) candidates name were brought forth to the delegation for elections. Only five (5) candidates will be elected to the Community Council. They are as follows:
     - Eleni Bistihas
     - Sakis Kalabalikis
     - Kathy Vasilakos-Marinakos
     - George Mylonas
     - Kathy Vlismas
     - John Yannitsos 
     - Nick Zannis
Voting will begin after the Divine Liturgy (12PM) and conclude at 5PM on Sunday, December 10^th. REMINDER: Only those members who have fulfilled their financial obligations for 2017 are permitted to vote. 

*NEW* Christmas Hours
Members, please note the significant change to our Christmas schedule. As per the directive given by Metropolitan Sotirios, these changes reflect his desire to have all churches in Canada operating under the same hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 
     - Christmas Eve Morning: 9AM-12PM
     - Christmas Eve Vespers: 7PM-8:30pm
     - Christmas Day: 9AM-12PM 

Membership Rate Changes 
As was discussed and decided at the last General Meeting April, the rates and levels for membership have changed and will be applied to all 2018 renewals. They are as follows:
     - Family Membership $250
     - Senior Couple (65+) $150
     - Single Senior (65+) $75
     - Widow/er $75
     - Single (18-64) $150
     - Student (18-25); with ID $75
This increase in membership fees will potentially generate $20 000 more for our community! It is of vital importance that our membership continues to grow to ensure that the doors of our church and community remain open to us at all times! 

Sacraments - New Booking Protocol 
To book weddings and baptisms with Father Peter, please ensure that your membership and your koumbari's membership is up to date. The sacrament fee must also be paid for in advance of the booking. This can be done by emailing Penelope Alefantis at admin@calgaryhellenic.com or by calling the office Monday through Thursday from 9AM-2PM at 403-246-4553. 

Hall Bookings Protocol
DID YOU KNOW? Our hall is getting busier and busier! We also want to make our best effort to accommodate our community members interested in booking the hall for private functions. A friendly reminder that we offer a 20% discount to members in good standing for 5+ years and that your booking is only final once the following actions have taken place:
     1. Your booking deposit has been
         received by the office.
     2. Your damage deposit has been
         received by the office.
     3. Your contract has been signed.
     4. Your Terms and Conditions document
         has been signed.
Please feel free to contact Pat Zack to book your private function for 2018 – available booking times are going fast!

HCYES Indigo Book Fair Fundraiser 
The Hellenic Canadian Youth Engagement Society (HCYES) invites you to its Indigo Fundraiser on Wednesday, November 29 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m at the Westhills Indigo. Please invite your friends and family and get some of your Christmas shopping done! 15% of the total amount spent by our guests will go towards HCYES, to help fund youth initiatives in our community. When you arrive at Indigo, please check in with Dimitra Fotopoulos or Peter Rallios to be registered. Thank you for your support!

Philoptochos News
Thank you again to all the donors of the Philoptochos bazaar who donated food products, supplies, baking, cooking, crafts, silent auction items, and monetary donations.  Thank you to all the volunteers,  we really appreciated your help.  Thanks as well to all who came out to the event and purchased items.  God bless you all!

Sunday School - Christmas Play 
We are hoping to put on a very simple yet meaningful Christmas Play where we have narrators read a script (older children) and the younger children act out the play.  If your child is able to come on Dec 3, Dec 17 and Dec 24 to Sunday school and you would like him/her to participate in the play,  please email Tina Liaridis at : matina1@hotmail.com  so that we know which children to expect.  We will assign the children  their parts and will practice with them for 15-20 minutes during a portion of our Sunday School time on Dec 3, Dec 17 and again shortly on Dec 24 before the performance.  We will send out another letter by email with a few more details as we get closer to the performance date.  Please make sure to email Tina as soon as possible with your child’s name and age and let her know if he/she will be able to attend on the practice and performance dates above.

Hitman Teddy Bear Toss
Watch the fur fly on Sunday, December 10^th at 2:00PM when the Calgary Hitmen take on the Moose Jaw Warriors! The Greek Community has secured a limited number of tickets for this fun event, so be sure to register here to secure your spot! Tickets are $15. 

Operation Christmas Child - Shoeboxes! 
Thank-you to everyone in the community for making this year’s Operation Christmas Child such a huge success! We reached our goal of 500 boxes! This would not have been possible without all of the support we received! On behalf of Met Youth Calgary we would like to thank Council, Greek School, Sunday School, Community Members, Administrative Staff and especially Father Peter and Presvitera for their support and guidance. May we all have a blessed Christmas season fill with love, health and happiness!
God Bless!
~Met Youth Calgary

November 7^th, 2017

October 28^th, 2017

Greek School - OXI Celebration
Dear Community Members,
Please allow us to introduce ourselves and offer a warm welcome to our Community School on Sunday,October 29^th to celebrate the historical OXI with our beautiful students. We have been working hard to commemorate this day with poems, songs, arts, and dance. 
Following Holy Communion, students will be guided to the hall and remain with their teachers. The celebration will begin shortly after the Dismissal of the Divine Liturgy, with a short break in between.  Please join us in the hall after Church. There will be time to take pictures of our students after the celebration.
We look forward to a beautiful celebration and to a productive and memorable school year.

Sincerely,
Yanna Papadopoulos
Fofo Zannis
Greek School Principals

Greek School - Parent Meeting
Parents are invited to a meeting on Saturday, November 4^th from 9AM-10AM in the boardroom, with members of the Greek School Committee Council and the Principals, to communicate further on school matters. It will be a great opportunity for parents to voice their suggestions, expectations and concerns. The School Committee and Principals will also inform the parents of actions taken and future plans. We hope to see you there!

General Meeting & Community Council Elections
The General Meetings of the Hellenic Greek Orthodox Community of Calgary & District and the Hellenic Society of Calgary will take place on Sunday, November 12^th, 2017 at 1:00PM in the Hellenic Community Hall.
In the event quorum is not achieved on November 12^th, 2017, the General Meetings will take place at the Hellenic Community Hall on Sunday, November 19^th, 2017 at 6:00PM. 
Those members who wish to be considered as candidates for election to council must complete the application by clicking here, and return it to the Elections Committee by1:00PM on November 19^th. Voting will begin after the Divine Liturgy and conclude at 5:00PM on Sunday, December 10^th. 
All Community members are encouraged to participate in the meeting but are reminded that, if a vote is to take place, only those members who have fulfilled their financial obligations for 2017 are permitted to vote.

Operation Christmas Child - Shoeboxes! 
Just a general reminder to bring back your filled shoeboxes to the Church by Wednesday, November 8^th. If you have any questions, please email MET Youth at orthodoxyouthcalgary@gmail.com. 

Philoptochos News
We thank all the ladies who have offered to help with the Bazaar so far. We really appreciate it! We are still in need of volunteers for a shift or two for our Philopchos Bazaar which is happening on November 3rd & 4th, and finishing off with a luncheon after church on the 5th. Many of our members are getting older in age and even though they want to help out, many are physically unable to and so we are requesting help from the younger generation! Talk to a friend and sign up together by clicking here!

Sunday School
All children are welcome to attend! Please have your child/children sit at the pews on the right of the church anytime after 11:00AM. Parents with children in Groups 1&2 will be asked to pick up their children at 12:15 from the classrooms in the basement. In November, we will talk about some of the Saints and their lives and how we honour them in todays time. 

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, click here and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

Adult Greek Dance
The Adult Greek Dance program will be starting up again this year on Monday, November 6^th at 6PM in the upper hall. If you are interested or have any questions about it, please contact Kathy Desautels by email atkdesautels@shaw.ca. 

Iconography Course
Priest Monk Father Vladimir is holding a Introductory Iconography Course, at Holy Martyr Peter the Aleut Orthodox Church from November 6^th-18^th, 2017. On Saturday, November 11^th, 2017 there is a free day seminar on icons. Click here to view the poster and clickhere to view the course pamphlet.  

Hitman Teddy Bear Toss
Watch the fur fly on Sunday, December 10^th at 2:00PMwhen the Calgary Hitmen take on the Moose Jaw Warriors! The Greek Community has secured a limited number of tickets for this fun event, so be sure to register here to secure your spot! Tickets are $15.

September 27^th, 2017

Greek School
We are excited to announce that Yianna Papadopoulos and Fofo Zannis will be job sharing the principal position. Yianna Papadopoulos will be in school on Wednesdays and Fofo Zannis, on Saturdays. Yianna has taught in all divisions and is presently completing her M.Ed. She is also teaching English and Social Studies at Lord Beaverbrook High School. Fofo is a Special Ed. teacher with many years of teaching experience.

A new Preschool class will be running on Monday afternoons, starting October 2^nd from 12:30-2:30PM, taught by Ms. Vasiliki Koutroumpi. Anyone interested in registering their child can come by the Greek School Office on Saturday, September 30^th, from 9AM-12PM or you can contact the Greek School at greekschool@calgaryhellenic.com to register.

Adult Greek Classes are scheduled to begin on October 4^th. Classes will run every Wednesday from 6-8PM, taught by Mrs. Nancy Koutselas. Anyone interested in registering can come by the Greek School Office on Wednesday, September 27^th from 6-8PM, Saturday, September 30^th from 9AM-12PM, or you can contact the Greek School at greekschool@calgaryhellenic.com to register. 

The Greek School Committee of Council
Antigone Kollias
Gus Morfesis
Diane Polesello
Katerina Alefantis
Dimitra Fotopoulos 

3^rdAnnual Calgary Hellenic Charity Golf Tournament
Thank you to all who participated in this years Golf Tournament and made it another success for our community! 

Sean Yost & Bill Smith to Visit
On October 1^st, Sean Yost (who is running for City Councilor in Ward 6) and on October 8^th, Bill Smith (who is running for Mayor) will be joining our community for fellowship after the Dismissal of the Divine Liturgy. They would both love to get to know the members of our community and answer any questions you may have for them! 

Community Costs
Click here to see how costs were divided for the 2016 year! 

Bible Study
Fr. Peters first Bible Study of the new ecclesiastical year will take place on Wednesday, September 27^th@ 6PM inside the church. See everyone there! 

Join us for Multicultural Night with the Calgary Stampeders!
The Stamps are facing the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, September 29^that 7:30pm. Tickets are just $25 (this is a discounted rate from $41.50)! To purchase tickets, please contact Dimitra Fotopoulos at dimfoto403@gmail.com. The deadline to purchase tickets is Sunday, September 24^th.

Philoptochos News
We are currently preparing for our annual Philoptochos Bazaar. We are asking for your assistance with this as it is our biggest fundraiser for the year. The funds we raise go towards helping those in need. We are accepting help in the form of baking, cooking, monetary donations and volunteers for shifts to help us out at the bazaar. We have created an online sign up for baking donations, cooking donations and/or any shifts needed to be filled for the Bazaar. If you are able to assist us in any way, please sign up by clicking here!

Sunday School
We would like to welcome back the children to Sunday School!  It will begin on Sunday, October 1^st and will be held the 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of every month.  Please check the calendar or the newsletter for any changes to that schedule. 

This year we have rearranged our age groups slightly. 
   - Group 1: Ages 4-6
   - Group 2: Ages 7-10
   - Group 3: Ages 10-15
Sunday school begins at 11:15 as per usual.  Please have your child/children sit at the pews on the right of the church any time after 11:00am.  Parents with children in Groups 1&2 will be asked to pick up their children at 12:15 from the classrooms in the basement. We look forward to this new year and we ask that you encourage friends and family to attend church with you so that the cousins and friends can go together to Sunday School.  See you on the 1^st!

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, click here and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

Adult Greek Dance
The Adult Greek Dance program will be starting up again this year on Monday, November 6^th at 6PM in the upper hall. If you are interested or have any questions about it, please contact Kathy Desautels by email at kdesautels@shaw.ca.

September 20^th, 2017

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE: GREEK SCHOOL
Hello to all,

I hope you have all had a wonderful summer and look forward to another great year together as a community.

I am sending this message out to update everyone as to what is happening at our Greek School this year and to clarify things with regards to recent developments. 

Unfortunately, our Principal will be stepping down effective the end of September due to a conflict with her full-time teaching position with her current employer. This is truly an unfortunate turn of events as we were all excited and looking forward to having a great year at Greek School with her. 

Moving forward, we are actively pursuing other candidates to be our new Principal and plan to have someone in place by the end of the month. If anyone is interested in working with us as Principal of Greek School, please contact me directly. We have contacted Alberta Ed and they are fully aware of our situation and are working with us to find a solution. We are extremely confident that we will have this resolved soon and this will have no effect on the Accreditation Program that is offered to our older children, as well as the K-6 program.

If you have any questions or concerns, I would be more than happy to address them. You can contact me at my email address: nick@pngconstruction.com. 

I thank you all for your patience while we resolve this matter. 

Nick Vasilakos - President
Hellenic Community of Calgary
Greek School

- If there are any parents interested in joining a Parent Council, please contact Pat Zack at events@calgaryhellenic.com. 
- Greek School may be adding another day of Preschool on Monday afternoons. If you are interested, please email the Greek School at greekschool@calgaryhellenic.com.
- Adult Greek Classes for the fall are scheduled to begin at the beginning of October. More information will be available soon and will be sent to those who have already contacted Greek School. 
- Check out the Meet Us! page by clicking here!

3^rdAnnual Calgary Hellenic Charity Golf Tournament
Happening on Sunday, September 24^th at Springbank Links Golf Course! Proceeds from this years tournament will go towards community programs and other charitable works. Foursomes will be arranged three (3) days prior to the event. 

Sean Yost & Bill Smith to Visit
On October 1^st, Sean Yost (who is running for City Councilor in Ward 6) and on October 8^th, Bill Smith (who is running for Mayor) will be joining our community for fellowship after the Dismissal of the Divine Liturgy. They would both love to get to know the members of our community and answer any questions you may have for them! 

Community Costs
Click here to see how costs were divided for the 2016 year! 

Seniors Society Community Picnic 
Join the Seniors Society for a community picnic on Saturday, September 23^rdat the Bow Cliff Seniors Center from 10am-2pm. Members of the society eat for free! 

Bible Study
Fr. Peters first Bible Study of the new ecclesiastical year will take place on Wednesday, September 27^th@ 6PM inside the church. See everyone there! 

Join us for Multicultural Night with the Calgary Stampeders!
The Stamps are facing the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, September 29^that 7:30pm. Tickets are just $25 (this is a discounted rate from $41.50)! To purchase tickets, please contact Dimitra Fotopoulos at dimfoto403@gmail.com. The deadline to purchase tickets is Sunday, September 24^th.

Philoptochos News
We would like to congratulate Father Peter Rougas for the recent honor he received of being elevated to the rank of Economos! We sincerely thank for the time and support he gives to our Philoptochos organization to ensure the success of our common goal of helping those who are less fortunate. Thank you also to all who helped with the dinner and festivities following the church service.

Mark your calendars! Philoptochos will be hosting their annual Bazaar on November 3^rd, 4^thand 5^th. Chat with family and friends and help spread the word for our major fundraising event for the year!

Sunday School
We would like to start off by congratulating Father Peter for being elevated to the rank of Economos.  We are so happy for him!  We thank him for his continued support of Sunday school, for the time he gives to the children and for his spiritual leadership!  All the best, Father Peter!

Sunday School will begin again on October 1^st. 
Please continue to check the community website and newsletter for any changes to the dates. Remember, Sunday School is the first and third Sunday of every month! We are also looking for more teachers. If you are available even once a month, please contact Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca. Thanks everyone and we will see you in October!

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, click here and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

August 29^th, 2017

Jason Kenney Visit
On Sunday, September 10^th, Jason Kenney will be joining our community for Divine Liturgy and fellowship after dismissal. He would love to get to know the members of our community and answer any questions you may have for him! 

3^rd Annual Calgary Hellenic Charity Golf Tournament
Mark your calendars! Join us on Sunday, September 24^th for a great day of fun at Springbank Links Golf Course! Proceeds from this years tournament will go towards community programs and other charitable works. Click here to register today! Registration is open to all until September 11^th.  

Seniors Society Community Picnic 
Join the Seniors Society for a community picnic on Saturday, September 23^rd at the Bow Cliff Seniors Center from 10am-2pm. Members of the society eat for free! 

AHEPA Family News
On behalf of the AHEPA Family Scholarship Committee, we would like to congratulate the following scholarship winners for the 2016-2017 year:
     -  Journey to Greece recipient award of $4500 - Katerina Evangelopoulos (daughter of Yiannis & Angeliki Kontalis)
     -  AHEPA recipient award of $1000 - Hari Ikonomou (grandson of Harry & Koula Protoppapas)
     -  Hellenic Descent recipient award of $750 - Nicholas Hut (son of Victor & Kleo Hut)
We wish all the students that applied and those awarded continued success in the future!
Diane Polesello
AHEPA Family - Scholarship Chair

Bible Study
Fr. Peters first Bible Study of the new ecclesiastical year will take place on Wednesday, September 27^th @ 6PM inside the church. See everyone there! 

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, click here and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

Calgary Torpedoes Water Polo Club
Want to get your kids involved in one of Greece's most popular sport? Look no further! Registration to the Torpedoes Water Polo Club is now open for their fall program. Click here for more information.

August 15^th, 2017

3^rd Annual Calgary Hellenic Charity Golf Tournament
Mark your calendars! Join us on Sunday, September 24^th for a great day of fun at Springbank Links Golf Course! Proceeds from this years tournament will go towards community programs and other charitable works. Click here to register today! Registration is open to all until September 11^th. 

Special Events Committee 
Our Special Events Committee is looking for volunteers for this years fundraising events! Any interested individuals are asked to contact Katerina at kalefantis1@gmail.com. 

Seniors Society Community Picnic 
Join the Seniors Society for a community picnic on Saturday, September 23^rd at the Bow Cliff Seniors Center from 10am-2pm. Members of the society eat for free! 

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, click here and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

Footprints Dance
We welcome back the Footprints Dance Project! They will be here from August 8^th until September 4^th. Footprints is a non-profit group that provides performing arts and dance opportunities to Calgarians who otherwise would not be able to participate. Check out their website to learn more and see a picture of the youth in our hall by clicking here!

Calgary Torpedoes Water Polo Club 
Want to get your kids involved in one of Greece's most popular sport? Look no further! Registration to the Torpedoes Water Polo Club is now open for their fall program. Click here for more information.

August 1^st, 2017

3^rd Annual Calgary Hellenic Charity Golf Tournament
Mark your calendars! Join us on Sunday, September 24^th for a great day of fun at Springbank Links Golf Course! Proceeds from this years tournament will go towards community programs and other charitable works. Click here to register today! Registration is open to all until September 11^th. 

Calgary Sportball 
Our community has teamed up with Calgary Sportball and we will be hosting a few programs for our young members right in our own gym! Sportball focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through non-competitive games and activities. For more information on sportball, clickhere and to view the programs offered at our hall starting mid-September, click here.

Philoptochos News
We hope everyone is having a restful summer with family and friends. Philoptochos is starting up again with a loukoumathes sale on Sunday, August 6^th after church. We will also be hosting a luncheon in honor of the Dormition of the Holy Theotokos, Virgin Mary, on Sunday, August 15^th after church services. 

Footprints Dance
We welcome back the Footprints Dance Project! They will be here from August 8^th until September 4^th. Footprints is a non-profit group that provides performing arts and dance opportunities to Calgarians who otherwise would not be able to participate. Check out their website to learn more and see a picture of the youth in our hall by clicking here!

Calgary Torpedoes Water Polo Club 
Want to get your kids involved in one of Greece's most popular sport? Look no further! Registration to the Torpedoes Water Polo Club is now open for their fall program. Click herefor more information.

Church Choir
Choir is starting up again in the fall! Lookout for the registration form coming out in late August. 

Sunday School
Anyone interested in teaching Sunday School this year is asked to contact Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca.

July 18^th, 2017

Church 
Our church will be closed on July 3^rd and reopen for services on Sunday, July 30^th.  Other Orthodox churches which will remain open during the summer include:
   - St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church
   - Antiochian Orthodox Church of the Annunciation 
   - St. Peter the Aleut Orthodox Church
  - St. Vladimir's Ukranian Orthodox Church 
  - All Saints Russian Orthodox Church

During the time that Father Peter is away, if pastoral services are needed, please call the church office (403-249-8876) and follow the directions given on the voicemail. 

Little PhD's & Rookie Ball Summer Camp
Due to a small number of registrants, this years summer camp has been cancelled.

Summer Projects
The summer is a great time to get things updated and refreshed for the fall. We've been quite busy here! Currently, we are in the process of converting the library to a boardroom, so be sure to come and check out the change.

Lost Camera
A friendly neighbor stumbled upon a black camera, so if anyone has recently misplaced theirs, please call Pat at 403-249-7377.

Church Choir
Choir is starting up again in the fall! Lookout for the registration form coming out in late August. 

Sunday School
Anyone interested in teaching Sunday School next year is asked to contact Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca.

June 27^th, 2017

Church 
Our church will be closed on July 3^rd and reopen for services on Sunday, July 30^th.  Other Orthodox churches which will remain open during the summer include:

   - St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church
   - Antiochian Orthodox Church of the Annunciation 
   - St. Peter the Aleut Orthodox Church
  - St. Vladimir's Ukranian Orthodox Church 
  - All Saints Russian Orthodox Church

During the time that Father Peter is away, if pastoral services are needed, please call the church office (4032498876) and follow the directions given on the voicemail.   

Stampeders Home Opener
Click here to get discounted tickets to the Stamps home opener against the Ottawa Redblacks! Happening this Thursday, June 29^th at 7PM. Be sure to take your flags! 

Canadian Blood Services - Donor Drive
The Hellenic Community is stepping up to save lives this summer. Please join the movement with our community by donating blood; we need 150 donors to help support the upcoming community clinic on Monday, July 3^rd at the Four Points by Sheraton (8220 Bowridge Crescent NW) from 3-8PM. Visit www.blood.ca to login and book an appointment! 

Little PhD's & Rookie Ball Summer Camp! 
Science in the morning and baseball in the afternoon! Keep your kids busy with this amazing camp offered from July 24^th-28^th. Click here to read the flier for more information and click here to complete the registration form. This camp is open to all kids 6-9, regardless of community membership. If anyone would like to volunteer, please email Penelope at admin@calgaryhellenic.com. Registration is limited, so be sure to reserve your kids spot today!

Stampede Kitchen Theater 2017
Christie Cushing is a chef of Greek heritage and will be hosting two shows at this years Stampede. To find out more info on dates, times, and ticket prices, just click here!

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

Learn to Play Pickleball 
On June 29^th, come out to the Community Hall to learn to play Pickleball! The first session begins at 9am and the  next  begins at 10:30am. Space is limited to 8 players per session. Call 403-246-0390 to reserve your spot! 

Church Choir
Choir is starting up again in the fall! Lookout for the registration form coming out in late August. 

Sunday School
Anyone interested in teaching Sunday School next year is asked to contact Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca to let him know. God bless you all!

June 13^th, 2017

Canadian Blood Services - Donor Drive
The Hellenic Community is stepping up to save lives this summer. Please join the movement with our community by donating blood; we need 150 donors to help support the upcoming community clinic on Monday, July 3^rd at the Four Points by Sheraton (8220 Bowridge Crescent NW) from 3-8PM. Visit www.blood.ca to login and book an appointment! 

Stampede Kitchen Theater 2017
Christie Cushing is a chef of Greek heritage and will be hosting two shows at this years Stampede. To find out more info on dates, times, and ticket prices, just click here!

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

Greek School Year End Celebration 
THIS SATURDAY! Greek School is inviting everyone to join them in acknowledging the achievements of the youth in our community! The celebration will take place at 9AM in the Community Hall where refreshments will be provided.

Fathers Day BBQ
This Sunday! The Community Council would like to invite all to a FREE Fathers Day lunch after liturgy on the 18^th. Come and enjoy your day with dad  and your community! Donations are welcome. 

Spruce Cliff Community Safety Workshop
CARYA (formerly Calgary Family Services) will be hosting a workshop on June 24^th at the Bow Cliff Seniors Center from 1-4pm regarding current trends in the community. This workshop is open to everyone interested in making the community a safer place. Beverages and snacks will be provided.   

Learn to Play Pickleball 
On June 29^th, come out to the Community Hall to learn to play Pickleball! The first session begins at 9am and the  next  begins at 10:30am. Space is limited to 8 players per session. Call 403-246-0390 to reserve your spot! 

Sunday School
Anyone interested in teaching Sunday School next year is asked to contact Father Peter at Fr.Peter@shaw.ca to let him know. God bless you all!

Philoptochos
The monthly meeting will be taking place on June 20^th at the Community Hall, which will also be our last meeting of the year. Philoptochos will be taking a  break over the summer and will reconvene in August in preparation for the Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever Virgin Mary which is on August 15^th. Thank you to all the Philoptochos ladies who have worked so hard all year to support our church and those in need. 

May 30^th, 2017

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

NIATA
The NIATA Dance Program is looking for a new director for the 2017-2018 year! Please contact calgaryniata@gmail.com if you are interested this volunteer position.

Wine Night @ the Community
On Friday June 9^th 2017 our community will be hosting an International Wine Tasting Night, featuring award winning wines from all around the world. You are invited to raise your glasses and indulge in light hors d'oeuvres with family and friends in support of the Greek Community of Calgary. There will be live music featuring the Rondel Roberts Band! For tickets, contact Katerina at kalefantis1@gmail.com.

Greek School Year End Celebration 
On Saturday June 17^th, the Greek School is inviting everyone to join them in acknowledging the achievements of the youth in our community! The celebration will take place at9AM in the Community Hall where refreshments will be provided. 

Greek School
Principal Rana Argiris would like to congratulate two students from Level 35, Victoria Lambrinoudis and Sophia Davaris who successfully wrote the Level A1 Ellinomatheia exam in Edmonton on May 16^th. She commends them on their dedication and preparation that went into writing the exam. Congratulations on a job well done!!

As the school year is coming to an end, we would like to thank our bright students, supportive parents and committed teachers for another successful school year.

The position of the Principal will be open for 2017-2018.Interested candidates should have a BEd., some teaching experience and be bilingual.  Since there might be other teaching positions available, interested candidates are encouraged to send their resumes to Mrs. Antigone Kollias, Chairperson of the School Committee atantigonekollias@hotmail.com. For inquiries please call Mrs. Kollias at 403-477-5724. 

To our outgoing principal, Mrs. Rana Argiris, we thank you for your positive contributions and we know that you will continue to be an active member of our community! 

Sunday School
June 4^th is our last Sunday School class prior to the summer. We want to thank everyone who attended Sunday school this year and we encourage all children and youth, ages 3-18 to participate again next year. Have a wonderful summer and we will see you again in the fall! NOTE: If anyone is interested in teaching Sunday School next year, please contact Father Peter to let him know. God bless you all!

Philoptochos
The monthly meeting will be taking place on June 20^th at the Community Hall, which will also be our last meeting of the year. Philoptochos will be taking a  break over the summer and will reconvene in August in preparation for the Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever Virgin Mary which is on August 15^th. Thank you to all the Philoptochos ladies who have worked so hard all year to support our church and those in need. 

May 2^nd, 2017

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

NIATA
The 2017 Annual Greek Night will be on Saturday, May 6th. Tickets are just $30 while children 10 and under are free. For more information on this event, please email Angela Hontzias at calgaryniata@gmail.com. 

The NIATA Dance Program is looking for a new director for the 2017-2018 year! Please contact calgaryniata@gmail.com if you are interested this volunteer position.

To our outgoing director, Mrs. Angela Hontzias-Lathiras, the Community thanks you for your years of dedication to the program.

Philoptochos News
Xristos Anesti!
This year, the Philoptochos ladies will be taking a well deserved break on Mother's Day. There will be a Mother's Day coffee and cake following the church service but there will not be a luncheon as previously mentioned. A generous member of our community has donated a 12-Piece Porcelain Dinner set to be won by any community member who would like to donate to the Albanian Orthodox Orphanage after church. Thank you to the Philoptochos ladies, who work hard all year for our community!

Wine Night @ the Community
On Friday June 9^th 2017 our community will be hosting an International Wine Tasting Night, featuring award winning wines from all around the world. You are invited to raise your glasses and indulge in light hors d'oeuvres with family and friends in support of the Greek Community of Calgary. 

Ticket purchases ($50) and donations can be made through contacting Katerina at kalefantis1@gmail.com. This is an 18+ event.

Calling all Greek School Parents!
Anyone interested in helping for the Greek School year end wrap up, scheduled for June 17^th, please contact events@calgaryhellenic.com.

Sunday School
Xristos Anesti!

Mother's Day is coming up.  Please talk about the Virgin Mary with your child and let him/her know how special she is to us in our Orthodox faith. We venerate the Virgin Mary and thank her for interceding on our behalf.

We are almost at the end of our Sunday school year, just a few classes left!  We continue to thank the parents who bring their children to Sunday school to support their children's spiritual growth.  If your child has not yet attended, we welcome you to bring him/her this month on the dates below. Please have your child join the other children in the front pews on the right hand side of the church at 11:00AM.  

If you would like to help out with teaching Sunday school next year, please contact Father Peter. We welcome more volunteers so that our Sunday School program continues to grow.

April 18^th, 2017

Consular Visit to Calgary
Deputy to the Consul General of Greece in Vancouver Ms. Anna Karamaroudi will visit Calgary on the following dates:

• April 30^th
• May 1^st 
• May 2^nd 

Those in need of the Consulates services are asked first to consult with Ms. Karamaroudi at 1-778-322-7787 well in advance of her visit. Thereafter, if you need to meet with Ms. Karamaroudi during her visit to Calgary, please call Mike Sinesios at 403-818-8481 to make an appointment. 

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

A New Face in the Office
Penelope Alefantis has joined our office admin team! She will be assisting the membership  committee as well as managing all web and social media content. Join us in welcoming her!

Philoptochos News
Xristos Anesti!
Thee annual spring cleaning of the church has been rescheduled to after Easter this year. Please check the newsletter for an update on when the cleaning will take place. You can also contact  Philoptochos if you have any questions.

Mother's Day Lunch - May 14th
If you would like to help out with this event, please either contact Philoptochos or come on the  day of the event to see where they my need assistance.

Sunday School
Xristos Anesti!
We would like to thank the 9 girls who volunteered to be Angles and Myrofores on Good Friday. They did a wonderful job! We thank them and their families for their time.

If you would like to help out with teaching Sunday School next year, please contact Father Peter. We welcome more volunteers so that our school program can continue to grow.

NIATA
The 2017 Annual Greek Night will be on Saturday, May 6th. Tickets are just $30 while children 10 and under are free. For more information on this event, please email Angela Hontzias at calgaryniata@gmail.com. 

The NIATA Dance Program is looking for a new director for the 2017-2018 year! Please contact calgaryniata@gmail.com if you are interested this volunteer position.

Holy Lands Pilgrimage
Join our community members and embark on the trip of a lifetime! See attachment for details: Holy Lands Pilgrimage 

April 4th, 2017

Palm Sunday Lunch
This Sunday, April 9^th, the Hellenic Community is hosting a luncheon after church service for Palm Sunday. Tickets are $15 and all of the proceeds are to benefit the Community. A big thank-you to Oceana Seafood, Steakhouse & Bar for sponsoring this event!

Consular Visit to Calgary
Deputy to the Consul General of Greece in Vancouver Ms. Anna Karamaroudi will visit Calgary on the following dates:

• April 30^th
• May 1^st 
• May 2^nd 

Those in need of the Consulates services are asked first to consult with Ms. Karamaroudi at 1-778-322-7787 well in advance of her visit. Thereafter, if you need to meet with Ms. Karamaroudi during her visit to Calgary, please call Mike Sinesios at 403-818-8481 to make an appointment. 

FundScript Community Fundraiser
Possibly the easiest way to raise funds for our Community! Shop with gift cards from FundScrip and the Community will receive 2-10% of the amount purchased. For more information, click here!

Philoptochos News
If you would like a large number of tsourekia and would like to pre-order to be sure you get the number you need, Philoptochos is also taking orders now for tsourekia. Contact Kathy at 403-836-3665 or Vaso at 403-241-1712 to make your pre-order. 

Thank you to everyone who has been coming to support our luncheons and fundraisers. We really appreciate your support! 

Sunday School
Epitaphio on Good Friday
Parents with daughters aged 7 and up who would like the honour of standing by the Epitaphio are asked to contact Tina Liaridis or their Sunday School teacher by April 12^th. 10 girls are needed.  

Just a few days left for Lent. Please talk to your children about the importance of prayers and thanksgiving. Talk about how being still, praying and giving thanks connects them to God. 

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Matthew 7:7
Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Knock and it will be opened to you. 

New Way to Give
Easter and Stewardship Envelopes coming soon. Pick them up at the office - stay tuned for details!

Memorial Announcements
In an effort to keep our community members informed, the decision has been made to announce upcoming memorials in this Community Newsletter that is published every second Tuesday. Only memorials that have been booked with Father Peter at the time of publication will appear in the Newsletter. Also, please note that memorials for the 2 Sundays following the publication date will appear. In order to provide the best and most current information, we ask that if you are planning a memorial for a loved one, that you give as much notice as possible to Father Peter. 

Holy Lands Pilgrimage
Join our community members and embark on the trip of a lifetime! See attachment for details: Holy Lands Pilgrimage 

March 21, 2017

2017 Greek Festival
The Calgary Greek Festival has been an important event at our community and the City of Calgary for over 15 years. The success of the festival year over year is largely dependent on the volunteer committee that comes together to plan, organize and execute the three day event. After numerous calls for committee volunteers via email, the community newsletter and church announcements, we did not receive adequate response to effectively run the Calgary Greek Festival. As such, and after much consideration, the 2017 Calgary Greek Festival will be cancelled.

The Community Council is grateful for the few people who did come forward to serve on the committee, however, key roles were still vacant and the general level of participation from our 500 plus members was too low. The Community Council is responsible to its members to make decisions in the best interest of the community. The high cost of running the festival without an experienced Chairperson to oversee the planning and management of the committee, is too high a risk to move forward in a financially responsible way.

The Community does rely significantly on the net proceeds from the Greek Festival to fund its operations.  The Community Council is discussing alternative sources of revenue to help replace income lost from the Greek Festival, and encourages you to share ideas for fundraising, events or new revenue streams with any member of Council.

Sincerely,

Nick Vasilakos - President
Hellenic Community of Calgary

GOYA Lenten Retreat
Taking place this Saturday, March 25^th at 12:00PM at the Hellenic Community Hall. All Greek youth ages 10 and up are invited to come and prepare sandwiches to send to the Drop In Center and also have a discussion about our Faith and Pascha. Come and learn the true meaning of this time of year. Lunch will be provided. 

Please RSVP attendance to Elias and Athena Manolakos at: orthodoxyouthcalgary@gmail.com If there are any dietary restrictions, please let us know so we can accommodate you accordingly. 

Greek School Independence Day Celebration
The March 25^th celebration will be taking place this Sunday, March 26^th and we are looking forward to celebrating this important yiorti with you. Here are a few important details for the day:                    

• Arrive at 11:15. Students are responsible for their own nut free snacks.  Classrooms will be open for students to drop off their snack bags and then head immediately upstairs for the church service.
• Communion at 11:25 then head to the gym for a group photo.
• Pictures at 11:40 in the gym.
• Procession into church at 11:55 to take part in church service.
• Proceed downstairs to classroom to have snack.
• Yiorti will start at 12:30                     

Please pick up your children in their class once the yiorti is done. I encourage all families to ensure their children are prepared for their poem, play or dance. As well, please have your child wear white tops and blue bottoms. We also encourage students to wear their tsolia or amalia if they have one.

Thank you in advance for your support with the celebration.                       

Rana Argiris,
Principal - Greek Community School of Calgary 

Sunday School
Our next Sunday School dates are as follows:

• April 2^nd  (No second Sunday school date in April due to  Easter Sunday.)
  
• May 7^th & 21^st
  

We are half way through Great Lent.  Please take some time to reflect as parents and to discuss Lent/Σαρακοστή with your children as a family.  Ask them what their goals are during Lent/Σαρακοστή.  What are they working on in order to get closer to God?How can you as parents, help support them with their goals?  Maybe share what you are working on as well in order to be a model for your children.  In addition, what act/acts of kindness can you do as a family to follow Jesus's teachings?  Let us all do our best to be mindful of all this during the weeks to come.

Parents who have girls aged 7 and up who would like to be Myrofores  during the evening service for Good Friday, are asked to please contact their Sunday School Teacher or email Tina Liaridis with Myrofores in the subject line of the email.  

May God bless you all.

New Way to Give
Easter and Stewardship Envelopes coming soon. Pick them up at the office - stay tuned for details! 

Philoptochos News

• March 21^st - Philoptohos Meeting at 7PM
  
• April 1^st & 8^th - Philoptohos will be selling Tsourekia Saturday from 9am-12noon.  
  
• April 2^nd & 9^th - Philoptohos will be selling Tsourekia Sunday after church. 

If you want a large number of tsourekia and would like to pre-order to be sure you get the number you need, Philoptohos is also taking orders now for tsourekia. Contact Kathy at 403-836-3665 or Vaso at 403-241-1712 to pre-order!

• April 12^th - Coloring Eggs for Pascha 

If you would like to help, please come at 9:00 am to help the ladies color the eggs that are handed out on Easter Sunday to the congregation. 

Thank you to everyone who has been coming to support our luncheons and fundraisers.  We really appreciate your help and support!  

Important Upcoming Dates

• April 2^nd - Labatha (Easter Candle) sales begin for Pascha. All proceeds to go to the community. 
  
• April 8^th - 3^rd Annual Palm Making Event
  
• April 9^th - Palm Sunday Luncheon. Sponsored by Oceana Seafood, Steakhouse and Bar
  
• April 13^th - Epitaphios Preparation
  

Memorial Announcements
In an effort to keep our community members informed, the decision has been made to announce upcoming memorials in this Community Newsletter. Newsletters are published every second Tuesday. Only memorials that have been booked with Father Peter at the time of publication will appear in the Newsletter. Also, please note that because Newsletters are issued bi-weekly, only memorials for the 2 Sundays following the publication date will appear. In order to provide the best and most current information regarding memorials and to avoid the unfortunate instance that one is inadvertently missed in the Newsletter,  we ask that if you are planning a memorial for a loved one, that you give as much notice as possible to Father Peter. 

March 7, 2017

International Women's Day 
Join us for our very first speakers series on Wednesday, March 8^th for International Women's Day at 6PM at the Hellenic Community Hall. We are excited to have Fay Chrisohou, founder and president of FCPC Tax and Consulting, presenting "Get Curious About Your Finances" and Dr. Ramona Chrisohou answering all your medical questions. Please have your questions ready. We look forward to seeing you there!

Used Book Sale Carried Over
Our used book sale has been very successful, but we still have a number of adult Greek and English books that you might be interested in. The book sale will continue on Saturday, March 11^th from 9AM-12PM and on Sunday, March 12^th from 12PM-1:30PM. Thank you for supporting our community. 

Skating at the Saddledome
On Sunday, March 12^th at 4PM, the Calgary Hitmen play against the Edmonton Oil Kings. After the game, they are offering a family skate for the fans. All it would cost is a ticket purchase to the game with the Community is offering for $10 per person. There will also be face painters on the concourse throughout the game, making this a fun family event. 

Parents are responsible for the supervision of their children. Children may skate alone and parents watch from the stands or parents may join them on the ice. 

To reserve your tickets, please sign up here! Tickets will be available for pick-up on Saturday, March 11^th at 9:30AM or Sunday, March 12^th, after church. For more information, please email Dimitra Fotopoulos at dimfoto403@gmail.com. 

Did You Know?
Our community now has Thank You cards available! Has someone shown an act of kindness, demonstrated their commitment to our community, or gone out of their way to make our community great? Let them know! Stop by the office and grab a Thank You card to acknowledge individuals or organizations that have made a difference in our community! 

Sunday School
Our next Sunday School dates are as follows:

• March 19^th
  
• April 2^nd 
  

As we go through this period of Great Lent, please remember to pray for those you love and to pray for those who are truly in need of love. Please be a good model for your children and help them to understand what Great Lent is really about. In Matthew 25:35-40, Christ tells us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, comfort the sick and visit the imprisoned. This is a time to reflect on Jesus's teachings and to do our best to follow His example in preparation for the Great and Holy Pascha. May God bless you all.

Golden Ladies Makaronada Luncheon 
On Sunday, March 12^th, the Golden Ladies will be hosting a "Makaronada" luncheon at the Hellenic Community Hall immediately following church services, during fellowship. The price is $8 per person (cash only). Please come and enjoy!!

Philoptoxos News

• March 19^th - Loukoumades sale following church services, during fellowship. 
  
• March 21^st - Monthly Meeting at 7PM
  
• April 2^nd & 9^th - Tsourekia sale following church services, during fellowship.  
  
• April 1^st & 8^th - Tsourekia sale from 9AM-12PM
  

If you would like to order a large number of tsourekia and would like to pre-order to be sure you get the number you need, Philoptochos is also taking orders now for tsourekia. Contact Kathy at 403-836-3665 or Vaso at 403-241-1712. 

Thank you to everyone who has been coming to support our luncheons and fundraisers. We appreciate your support!

What's the BIG Secret?
Our Community Hall is the best kept secret in Calgary - so help spread the word! Do you know of someone organizing a fundraising event, getting married, or celebrating a special occasion? Our hall is available to everyone and brings funds to our community. We are one of the few halls left in the city offering the flexibility to bring outside vendors - a HUGE competitive advantage for our hall. So let your friends, family, and coworkers know about your fabulous facility and in turn, help generate income for our community! 

Holy Lands Pilgrimage 
Join our community members and embark on a trip of a lifetime! Click here for more information.

February 21, 2017

Used Book Sale & Library News
Our community library is now weeded thanks to the efforts and hard work of these dedicated volunteers: Judy Gray, Katerina Soku, and Antigone Kollias. The criteria used for the weeding of the book collection was relevancy, currency, bias, physical condition, language used and esthetics. 

Books that do not fit in the collection will be sold on March 5^th at the Hellenic Community Hall from 12-2 and on Monday, March 6^th form 6-7. Proceeds from the sale of children's and adult books in Greek and English will support the transformation of our library room into a multi-purpose room that will better meet the community needs. 

We will accept donations of used books in good condition and appropriate content in Greek or English. Children and adult books and magazines will be accepted in the Hellenic Community Hall from February 22^nd until March 4^th during office hours. 

Please call Antigone Kollias at 403-477-5724 with any suggestions or questions regarding the library and book sale. Volunteers are always welcome. 

Thank you for supporting our community! 

Tax Presentation
James Kromidas (http://kromida.com), a Chartered Accountant from Montreal, will present in the Hellenic Community Hall on March 5^th after the Philoptochos luncheon (1:00-1:30). The emphasis will be on how Greek taxation laws affect Greeks who live abroad and what they need to do to comply with these laws.

The presentation will be for 30 minutes and there will be opportunities for questions.

Bible Study
This Wednesday, February 22^nd at 6PM in the Church. The topic of discussion will be bioethics. 

Membership Committee Events
To the ladies of our Community, we invite you to our Speaker Series evening for women on March 8^th at the Hellenic Community in celebration of International Women's Day. Please save the date and come for an opportunity to learn from others and at the same time celebrate being a woman! More information on our guest speakers to follow in the next newsletter. 

Paint Night
We would like to thank everyone who came to our First Annual Paint Night! It was a great success and we look forward to the next one!

Did Someone Say Hockey?
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Multicultural Night with the Calgary Hitmen. It was a great game and a great night out with the members of our community. We had a great time representing Greece. Check out the video by clicking here!

Sunday School
The next dates for Sunday School are:

• March 5^th 
  
• March 19^th 
  

Great lent begins on February 27^th. Discuss as a family how you will work together in faith to become even closer to God.

Golden Ladies Makaronada Luncheon
On Sunday, March 12^th following church service, the Golden Ladies will be hosting a Makaronada Luncheon. The price is $8 per person. Please come and enjoy!

Phioptochos News
On February 26^th, the ladies will be selling tiropites and spanakopites after church service. On March 19^th, the ladies will be selling loukoumades. YUM!

Holy Lands Pilgrimage 
Join our community members and embark on a trip of a lifetime! Click here for more information.

February 7, 2017

Paint Night
Please join us for paint night fundraiser for our community on February 8^th at 6PM at the Hellenic Community Centre (upstairs hall). The cost is $30 (payable in cash) and covers all supplies to create your very own masterpiece! Everyone is welcome but geared towards those 14 years and older. 

Please contact Diane Polesello - dapolesello@shaw.ca for more information. To register, please click here! 

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Did Someone Say Hockey?
Join us for a Multicultural Night as the Calgary Hitmen take on Swift Current on February 11^th. Wear your blue and white, bring flags and enter the draw to join us for a flag ceremony on centre ice. Tickets are $10/each for members. We have limited tickets available so be sure to register early by clicking here!

Sunday School
The next dates for Sunday school are:

• February 19^th
  
• March 5^th
  

The Presentation of Our Lord - February 2^nd 
Virgin Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus into the temple for the 40 day Blessing (according to the Law of Moses). Also at the temple, was Simeon a just and devout man who had long awaited the salvation of God ... who had been informed by divine revelation that he would not die until he saw the Saviour Jesus. Simeon took Jesus up in his arms and gave glory to God, saying, "Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples....".  Some of you may not know this but our Orthodox Church has preserved this beautiful tradition of the 40 day blessing (also known as the "churching" ) of the mother and new-born child with the reading of prayers of purification. 

Membership Committee Events
To the ladies of our Community, we invite you to our Speaker Series evening for women on March 8^th at the Hellenic Community in celebration of International Women's Day. Please save the date and come for an opportunity to learn from others and at the same time celebrate being a woman! More information on our guest speakers to follow in the next newsletter. 

Way to go Members!
A big thank you to all community members who have already paid their 2017 memberships! Early membership payment helps our community plan and budget more effectively for the upcoming year. Thanks to all for your continued support! 

Philoptochos News
Philoptochos will be honouring our seniors by hosting a Seniors Luncheon on Sunday, February 19^th. If you are able to assist at the luncheon, please contact the president of Philoptochos or come early to help out. Many hands make light work!

Did you know that the Philoptochos ladies make approximately 700 sandwiches for the Drop In Center every month? The next date for making sandwiches is Tuesday, February 21^st at 9AM at the Community Hall. If anyone would like to join the ladies at that time, they would appreciate it! 

The next Philoptochos meeting is on February 21^st at 7PM. 

Holy Lands Pilgrimage 
Join our community members and embark on a trip of a lifetime! Click here for more information.

January 24, 2017

President's Message for 2017 
Hello to all Members,

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas season and want to wish you all a Happy New Year as the Community Council is really looking forward to having a great year in 2017. 

As happens every year, the Community Council changes as terms finish and new members help to do their part. I would like to welcome Antigone Kollias and Demetrios Nicolaides to our Council this year for a 3 year term. Also, myself, Sam Kaketsis and Mike Sinesios have come back for a new 3 year term, as our previous term of service had expired.

I feel Council has made progress in having a very open and approachable Council that will engage with our members, old and new, to address your needs and concerns so we all have a Community that we can all enjoy and be proud of.

Saying all of that, there is still a lot of work to be done and we need our members to be active with their time and ideas do we can grow the Community to new heights. 

Click here to find information for Father Peter, the Executive Council as well as all Council members and their respective areas of responsibility. 

Please do not hesitate to contact anyone of us if you have any concerns or needs. Also, you can contact the Society office during office hours Monday-Thursday between 9:00AM and 2:00PM at 403-246-4553 or email the office admin@calgaryhellenic.com. 

Thank you, 

Nick Vassilakos
President
Hellenic Community of Calgary

Future Development Meeting
Please join our Future Development Committee.

The aim of this Committee is to analyze the immediate and future needs of our Community and develop a 5-10 year plan of action. Interested members are invited to attend an open house on Sunday, January 29^th at 12:30PM in the basement of the Community hall. 

Greek School
Happy New Year and welcome back! 

We would like to congratulate Level 2 and Level 35 for winning the Christmas door decorating contest. All doors looked amazing and the students had so much fun decorating them. A pizza party will take place for the winners in the next couple of weeks.

We welcome Matina Liaridis as the Level 3 teacher. Tina was a former teacher and principal and we are delighted to have her back! 

Report cards go home on:

• Wednesday, January 25^th 
  
• Saturday, January 28^th 
  

Parent/teacher interviews are on:

• Wednesday, February 1^st from 7PM-8PM
  
• Saturday, February 4^th from 11AM-12PM
  

We encourage all parents to book a time to meet with teachers. Any support and feedback will help you and your child work together in learning Greek as a second language.

We look forward to seeing you!

Rana Argiris
Principal
Calgary Greek School

International Women's Day
Join us on March 8^th as we will be hosting a Speaker Series event for women. Please look for more details in the February newsletter. 

Paint Night
Please join us for a Paint Night Fundraiser for our community on February 8^th at 6:00PM at the Hellenic Community Centre. The cost is $30 and covers all supplies to create your very own masterpiece. 

Everyone is welcome although geared towards those 14 years and older. You must pre-register by February 6^th using this attached form. Please contact Diane Polesello at dapolesello@shaw.ca for more information.

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Did Someone Say Hockey?
Join us for a Multicultural Night as the Calgary Hitmen take on Swift Current on February 11^th. Wear your blue and white, bring flags and enter the draw to join us for a flag ceremony on centre ice. Tickets are $10/each for members. We have limited tickets available so be sure to register early by clicking here! 

Sunday School 
The next dates for Sunday School are:

• February 5^th
  
• February 19^th
  

We have very few students coming for our 3rd group (ages 12-18). Parents, we really need your support - please encourge your teen to come and join us. In February, please let us all focus on this passage from 1 John 4:7 "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."

Have You Paid Your 2017 Membership? 
Renew your membership from the comfort of your (warm) home. Just log in to your community account at www.calgaryhellenic.com or visit the community office from 9AM-2PM on Monday through Thursday. You can also pay at the church office following Sunday church services!

Philoptochos News
Did you know that the Philoptochos Ladies make approximately 7 000 sandwiches for the drop in centre every month? The Saint Philotheli donation box is located in the entrance of the church on the left, towards the stained glass windows. The money that is collected in that donation box is used for making those sandwiches. If you would like to contribute, please make a donation when you come to church. If you would like to help make sandwiches, you are welcome to join the ladies. The next date for making sandwiches is Tuesday, February 21^st at 9AM in the Hellenic Community Hall. Our other February events are:

• February 19^th - Seniors Luncheon
  
• February 26^th - Tyropites & Spanakopites Sale 
  

Holy Lands Pilgrimage 
Join our community members and embark on a trip of a lifetime! Click here for more information.

January 10, 2017

Holy Lands Pilgrimage 
Join our community members and embark on a trip of a lifetime! Click here for more information.  

Tavli Tournament 
CANCELLED for January 22^nd  but will be rescheduled for a later date. If you have registered, please contact Dimitra Fotopoulos at dimfoto403@gmail.com.

Sunday School
Upcoming Sunday School dates:

• January 22^nd 
  

Have You Paid Your 2017 Membership? 
Renew your membership from the comfort of your (warm) home. Just log in to your community account at www.calgaryhellenic.com or visit the community office from 9AM-2PM on Monday through Thursday. You can also pay at the church office following Sunday church services!  

The Alexandra Klironomos FUN CASINO 
The Order of AHEPA & the Daughters of Penelope are once again hosting a Fun Casino on February 25^th. Tickets are now on sale. Contact Diane at dapolesello@shaw.ca or 403.616.3426. These will go fast! Proceeds of this event will go towards dementia care.