BROOKLYN, NY – The A. Fantis School Christmas Concert took place in the packed Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helen in Brooklyn on December 22.

The students from kindergarten to the 8th grade, under the guidance of the artistic director, Theodore Alvanos, sang church hymns, traditional Christmas songs and carols, eliciting the warmest applause.

Presiding priest of the community, Fr. Evagoras Constantinides, congratulated the students for the excellent program they presented and wished everyone a merry, blessed Christmas and a bright new year, full of love and solidarity.

Principal Theodore Tasoulas congratulated the students and teaching staff and wished them a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year with health and every happiness.

His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, official guest of the event, expressed through The National Herald his admiration for the program presented by the students, who, as he said, “introduced us in the best way into the spirit of Christmas.”

“The example of this school should be an example for other communities,” he continued. “I am really happy about the progress of the students and the cooperation that exists between the church and the school. I wish the parents and children a blessed Christmas and that the Cathedral may have many opportunities to give us joy like today.”

Assistant Principal Panagiota Lilikaki said that Christmas symbolizes a new beginning for the whole world, with the hope of becoming better as people and filling children’s hearts with joy.

Board of Trustees President Dean Paravalos congratulated the school on its achievements and wished the Greek community a merry Christmas with health and happiness.

Immediately after the event, the Parents’ Association hosted a reception in the church hall.