Anagennisis Philoptochos Society of Corona
The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society is the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Each parish maintains a local chapter dedicated to charitable outreach and service rooted in the Gospel of Christ.
At Transfiguration of Christ in Corona, that mission began even before the parish was formally established.
Father Chrysostom with members of the Philoptochos, in 2026.
Before the Parish – A Spirit of Service
Prior to the official founding of the parish in 1926, a small group of devout women living in the Corona area began gathering with one shared purpose: to support the spiritual and material needs of their emerging community.
Their efforts laid the groundwork for what would soon become a formal ministry of the Church.
The Anagennisis Philoptochos Society with Father Gerontidakis in 1950.
Official Establishment
In 1928, the society was formally organized under the name: “Anagennisis” Philoptochos Society of Corona. The word Anagennisis means “Rebirth” — a reference to the spiritual transformation initiated through Holy Baptism and lived out in Christ. The name reflects not only sacramental renewal but a lifelong commitment to Christian service.
Mrs. Despoina Spanou was elected as the first president of the Society. From its earliest days, the Philoptochos women faced what often seemed like insurmountable needs — yet they responded with faith and perseverance.
Service During the Great Depression
During the 1930s, as the Great Depression affected families across the country, Philoptochos chapters throughout America organized feeding programs, raised funds for struggling families, and offered both material and moral support.
The Corona chapter was no exception.
Under the leadership of women such as Mrs. Victoria Stathos and Mrs. Despina Kazazi, the Society provided clothing, financial assistance, and even arranged return passage to Greece for immigrants who could no longer sustain themselves in the United States.
They assisted families with funeral arrangements when loved ones passed away and worked closely with civil and immigration authorities to help those in need.
In these difficult years, the Philoptochos truly became the compassionate heart of the parish.
“The Mother of the Community”
The late Mrs. Despina Vrachopoulos, often referred to as “The Mother of Philoptochos,” dedicated her life to charitable service both locally and nationally.
Through the decades, the Ladies Philoptochos Society of Corona became widely recognized for its unwavering devotion to the needs of the parish and the wider community.
Their efforts extended beyond New York, providing assistance during natural disasters in Greece and supporting philanthropic causes throughout the Archdiocese.
Philoptochos Board Members with Archbishop Demetrios, in 2003.