WASHINGTON – The Order of AHEPA has become a Founding Member of the ‘Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation: For the Sacred See of Saint Andrew,’ announced Supreme President George G. Horiates.

A watershed initiative of the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Foundation is dedicated to achieving economic independence for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, so that it may fulfill its apostolic mission in perpetuity.

Founding Members have committed to ensuring the financial foundation of the Holy Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, by pledging $100,000 over 10 years.

“We are delighted to have AHEPA designated as a Founding Member of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation,” Supreme President Horiates said. “The AHEPA and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America share the same 100 years of service, it is no wonder that we are identified as the Twin Pillars of Hellenism. The AHEPA since 1922 has donated millions of dollars to churches across America and the globe. Our community outreach and assistance are legendary. Our hope and belief are that with this new foundation, the light of the Phanar can continue to shine bright on our world and that the leader of the Orthodox faithful can live in peace and safety.”

Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, National Commander of the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and Chair of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation, said, “it is an immense honor to have AHEPA as a Founding Member of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation. For a century, AHEPA has been an indispensable source of support for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and now it is selflessly and generously providing the same aid to our Mother Church. All Greek Orthodox Christians, not just in America but throughout the world, owe AHEPA a debt of gratitude for doing so much to safeguard, defend, and strengthen the foundations of our Holy Faith.”