WHITESTONE – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Whitestone celebrated the Veneration of the Holy Cross on the third Sunday of Lent, March 27, with the traditional church service and procession as well as the fasolada luncheon hosted by the Parish Council in the community’s Vasilios and Athanasia Kartsonis Hall, following the Divine Liturgy.

Parishioners filled the church hall in numbers not seen since before the pandemic to mark the halfway point of Holy and Great Lent. Presiding priest of the community Fr. George Anastasiou led the prayer, along with the community’s youngsters, before the meal, and also introduced Cathy Helfrich as the new principal of the Holy Cross Day School which is set to reopen this year for early childhood education.

Fr. Anastasiou had announced the hiring at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy noting Helfrich’s years of experience in New York City schools. At the luncheon, Helfrich spoke about this new start and looked forward to working with the community to help the school fulfill its mission.

The luncheon also included a raffle with many prizes such as a TV, watch, various kitchen appliances, and a gift card to a hair salon. The committee worked hard to organize the event which was a resounding success. Fr. Anastasiou thanked all those present for attending, the Parish Council, the organizing committee, and Parish Council President Dimitris Antonakis.

Lenten desserts and coffee were served to conclude the meal as attendees wished everyone the best for the remaining period of Lent and a happy Easter as well.