A Message from the President – September 2017

Dear friends,

We usually take education for granted, and then again we realise it remains an inaccessible right for millions of children around the globe. The HCGM makes considerable efforts to ensure that our schools are attended by the largest number of students possible, so as to offer them the opportunity to become the ambassadors who will promote and preserve the Hellenic spirit, and therefore ensure the future of our community. With this in mind, we have begun our registration campaign for 2018-2019 and we encourage every one of you to spread the word, advertising our School’s excellence.

Simultaneously, the HCGM Montreal Centre for Greek Studies’ fall semester schedule gives the opportunity to adults, of every descent, to learn the language of philosophy, science and culture, ΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ.

On the 14th of September, Orthodox Christians around the world, celebrate the Elevation of the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross. Our Holy Cross Church will be the centre of these celebrations, where Vespers and the Procession of the Holy Cross will take place. His Eminence Metroplolitan Sotirios will be in attendance, presiding the Liturgy along with all the Clergy.

Gandhi once said that “Poverty is the worst form of violence”. Our Social Services department continues the battle against poverty by operating Food Banks for the disadvantaged in two locations, Laval and Montreal. The HCGM Social Services provide all necessary information and encourage people that face difficulties to benefit from their programme.

St. George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral restoration project continues. Phase 1 of the restoration project is to be completed by the end of September 2017 at a cost of $550,000 before tax and includes the reconstruction of the pedestrian bridge, new retaining walls, and drainage to protect the foundations of our cathedral. As of September 1, 2017, $472,295 has been raised. I wish to extend my gratitude to St. George’s new fundraising committee and encourage every one of you to contribute to this great project.

The Laval Regional Council organised a two-day festival at the Holy Cross Church in Laval which was a huge success. I would like to express my gratitude to all our volunteers whose contribution is vital for us in achieving our goals. I hope you enjoy the photo-album and video of the event.

sincerely,

Nicholas T. Pagonis

President