WHITESTONE, NY – The Ladies Philoptochos Society hosted the traditional cutting of the vasilopita at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Whitestone on January 12. Fr. George Anastasiou, presiding priest of the community, gave the blessing and cut the vasilopita in honor of St. Basil the Great.

The event included a buffet brunch and each table had their own vasilopita for the opportunity to find the lucky coin.

Philoptochos President Irene Mihalios gave the welcoming remarks and thanked all those present and all those who helped make the event possible. Previous Philoptochos president Margie Demetriou was honored at the event for her contributions and efforts the last four years as president and was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a certificate of achievement.

The gold coin was donated by the Moschokarfis family and the vasilopites were donated by Evgenia Papadakos.
A raffle was also held with prizes including a silver necklace, a cashmere sweater, and a Donna Karan handbag, among other items.

The proceeds support the charitable efforts of the Philoptochos Society which helps those in need throughout the year.

Fr. George Anastasiou, presiding priest of the Holy Cross Whitestone community gave the blessing and cut the vasilopita. (Photo by TNH/ Eleni Sakellis)

Fr. George Anastasiou, presiding priest of the Holy Cross Whitestone community gave the blessing and cut the vasilopita. (Photo by TNH/ Eleni Sakellis)

Philoptohos President Irene Mihalios gave the welcoming remarks at the annual cutting of the vasilopita. (Photo by TNH/ Eleni Sakellis)

The annual cutting of the vasilopita was held in the Vasilis and Athanasia Kartsonis Hall at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Whitestone. (Photo by TNH/ Eleni Sakellis)