Philoptochos

A Greek word that means “friend of the poor,” Philoptochos is the name of the ladies’ auxiliary of the church. As stated by Philoptochos, their mission is to be the right hand of the church. Philoptochosis an outreach group of women totally committed to “go and meet critical needs. Through essential and unique demonstrations of love, you consistently answer God’s call. You initiate programs, gather resources, and respond to crises. From a foundation of faith in the power of our Lord, you offer assistance filled with grace in our parishes and communities, and throughout our nation,” stated by His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios, the Archbishop of America. 

Philoptochos is an official philanthropic organization of the Greek Orthodox church. The local Greenville chapter began in 1926 and was known as the Greek Ladies Circle, more of a social club. They were instrumental in fundraising and started the first Greek school in the community. 

 In 1934, the group evolved into the Saint Barbara’s Greek Ladies Society growing their philanthropic mission. Continuing their fundraising activities, the group sponsored Greek Dramas with local talent from the community participating. 

 In 1942, the organization was chartered as the “Saint Barbara’s Greek Ladies Philoptochos Society.” During World War II, as part of their philanthropy, the ladies started a Soldiers Committee and worked with the Greenville Chapter of the American Red Cross.  

This organization, which began as a social club, had grown into an extraordinary group of women who have remained true to their mission. Philoptochos has aided church members in need, as well as National, District, and local charities.  

This group of hardworking women continue their fundraising even today by sponsoring luncheons, dinners, and entertainment shows. In earlier years, sometimes these plays would include a hot dog supper or a womanless beauty pageant. Their largest fundraising activity is an annual Bake Sale every November – boasting its 49th year in 2015. Many other projects include the dying of Easter eggs every year and the adornment of the Epitaphios with flowers for Good Friday evening service.