Background

The Ladies Philoptohos Society is the official philanthropic organization of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America. The name means “friend of the poor”, being derived from the Greek words philo (friend) + ptohos (poor). Established in 1931, the organization is comprised of more than 25,000 members in 475 churches nationwide. It is one of the largest Christian women’s philanthropic organizations in America and occupies a non-governmental seat at the United Nations.

The Philoptohos Society is dedicated to charitable endeavors. Its primary mission is to bestow loving care to those experiencing human suffering. It provides financial assistance and support to the impoverished, the afflicted, the hungry, the orphaned, the aged, the disabled, and the victims of disasters. The love and charity of the Ladies Philoptohos Society extends from the immediate Greek Orthodox parish of Holy Apostles and surrounding community to national and international philanthropic causes.

In addition to its philanthropic endeavors, the Ladies Philoptohos Society is committed to the preservation of the Orthodox family as well as the perpetuation of traditions and customs of the Orthodox Faith. Events and activities are held which support the principles of the Greek Orthodox Faith and the spiritual growth of the Orthodox community at large. Throughout the years, Holy Apostles parish has been the direct beneficiary of the Ladies Philoptohos Society’s fund raising efforts in the form of equipment purchases, facility remodeling projects, and renovation needs. The Society has helped support seminarians and raised money for various student scholarship programs.