SAINT AUGUSTINE, FL —  The St Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine in St Augustine, Florida welcomed hundreds of supporters, friends, and visitors from throughout the nation during its festive 3rd annual Christmas Open House held on Sunday, December 12.

Despite the Covid-19 restrictions and pandemic, holiday atmosphere, cheer, and celebration were enjoyed by all.

Polexeni Maouris Hillier, Executive Director of the St. Photios Shrine noted that, “There was so much good fellowship and continual good feedback during the event.”

Very Rev. Archimandrite Maximos Politis, Pastor of the Holy Trinity Church of St. Augustine, FL, assisted by the Rev. Deacon Athanasios Kartsonis, offered the opening prayer and ceremonies.  Four young, talented Greek folk dancers, dressed in traditional Greek costumes from the St. John the Divine dance troupe, enlivened historic St. George Street with a number of traditional folk dances.

The Saints Anargyroi Philoptochos Society of the Saint John the Divine Church in Jacksonville, FL, sponsored the occasion, which was co-chaired by Effie Lasoff and Olga Farhat.