Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church New York City Celebrated Emerald 20th Annual Stewardship & Mistletoe Galas

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church New York City held its Emerald 20th Annual Stewardship and Mistletoe Galas at the Harvard Club of New York City in Midtown Manhattan, returning celebrating an enormous 20th anniversary.

The vibrant event, hosted by the Annunciation Parish, welcomed over 700 Greek-Americans, who celebrated Christmas spirit, danced to the sounds of Dean Vali Orchestra of Bounce Music and DJ Bobby Karounos of Spartan Sounds, and supported the iconic Upper West Side Greek Orthodox Church and its ministries. The Stewardship Gala was home to a seated dinner, which hosted notable clergy members and Hellenic organizations. The Mistletoe Gala featured an open bar & buffet, as well as a sea of youth who mingled and delighted amongst the festive décor of the private social club. The Harvard Club was glowing with holiday decor and the iconic Christmas tree was decorated and shining brightly.

20th Annual Annunciation NYC Mistletoe Gala

The Stewardship Gala began with welcome remarks by President of Annunciation Parish Council George J. Kostas, Archbishop Elpidophoros, Archon Nick Sakellariadis, and Parish Priest of Annunciation Father Sotirios Michalatos, who also shared additional remarks.

“God has given each of you your own special talents,” said Fr. Sotirios Michalatos, Parish Priest of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church NYC. “As we enter into the Christmas season and start of our New Year, consider what talents and treasures you can offer to help those around you and your Church.”

Notable attendees included Archbishop Elpidophoros; District Chancellor Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne, Father Elias Villis; V. Rev. Father Chrysostomos Gilbert; and Gala Chairwoman for 20 consecutive years Kassandra Romas. Also present showing their support were numerous young professionals, parish youth groups and other organizations promoting Hellenism, including United Greeks of America, National Hellenic Student Association of America, Hellenic Medical Society, and more.

20th Annual Annunciation NYC Stewardship Gala

The mission of this year’s Gala was to celebrate a Parish with 132 years of community and history, as well as raise awareness and funds for major repairs and maintenance through the Gala. Attendees at the Gala were asked to support this cause through the purchase of raffle tickets, the bidding of the grand prize emerald necklace, and/or by a direct donation towards the building restoration fund.

In celebration of the Emerald 20th Anniversary, a custom-made 3.6 carat Colombian Emerald pendant (retailed at $9,000) was auctioned prior to the Gala and the winner was announced the following day during Fellowship hour after the Divine Liturgy.

Next year’s 21st Annual Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church NYC Stewardship & Mistletoe Galas 2024 is confirmed for Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the Harvard Club of New York City.

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church New York City is located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at West End Avenue and 91st Street. For more information on Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church New York City, their website is annunciation-nyc.org