The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society celebrated the 20th anniversary of its biennial Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon on Saturday. The event took place at Flourish Atlanta, and was hosted by the Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos.
The Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon, which has supported the medical needs of children, organizations and medical institutions throughout the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese was founded in 1991. Its mission is to provide grants to pediatric hospitals nationwide and to provide funding to organizations that care for children with cancer, and other critical and life-threatening illnesses.
The event was honored by the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta, and His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, National Philoptochos Spiritual Advisor. The luncheon was chaired by Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos President, Irene Politis, alongside her tri-chairs, Valine Georgeson, Vickie Scaljon, and Evan Mekras Scurtis.
National Philoptochos President Debbie George drew upon the words of the Lord, setting the spiritual tone for the day: “Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” (Matthew 18:5)
“These words are central to our mission,” George said. “Every child we touch through the Children’s Medical Fund is not just a child in need but a living reflection of Christ Himself. Each act of care, gift of healing, and effort to bring comfort is an encounter with Him. This sacred responsibility and privilege guide us as Philoptochos women, reminding us that serving a child is serving Christ.”
Guided by this vision, the luncheon distributed more than $375,000 in grants to hospitals and organizations devoted to the healing and well-being of children. Through sponsorships, ticket sales, and other fundraising opportunities, over $1 million was raised by the organization to support ongoing medical care. This achievement brings the total funds raised since the inception of the Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon to over $5 million.
“Through these efforts, Philoptochos continues to serve as an instrument of Christ’s love and mercy for generations to come,” a press release by the Philoptochos Society stated.
In his invocation, Archbishop Elpidophoros poured over the philanthropic works of Philoptochos members and their support for children’s health initiatives. The luncheon program began at noon following a reception and included speakers and presentations honoring the society’s philanthropic work over the past two decades.
“O Lord Jesus Christ, we bow our heads before You, and with humble hearts we give thanks to You for the abundant blessings which You have poured forth upon us,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said. “Through Your ineffable wisdom and Your Divine power, You have enabled us to minister to these children who are in need of Your love, Your comfort, and Your care.”
The event, emceed by prominent news anchor Emily Pantelides, also featured a keynote address by three-time Emmy award-winning author Yvette Manessis Corporon. Also in attendance was the 2nd vice president of the organization Stella Piches, as well as guest speaker Christine Pumphrey, who spoke about the vital role of the CMF luncheon. Pumphry spoke about the challenges that a family faces when navigating a difficult medical journey.
Grant recipients offered testimonies of the life-changing work being carried out in children’s hospitals and programs across the country.
“Their words gave voice to the countless children whose lives have been touched by the ministry,” the press release stated.
