George Calimeris, Chanter. Anna Marakas Counelis, Organist, Demetrios Protopsaltais, Greek School Principal, will be honored by the Ascension Cathedral on Saturday evening, March 6th. These three members have distinguished themselves in the life of the parish with literally, their life-long contributions.
George Calimeris began as a young man teaching Greek School and chanting with the long-famed Allambakos. His calm, unassuming personality, his keen wit and sharp intelligence have endeared him to all of our pastors over the last 50 years who have had the privilege of working with him. He reads with clarity and conviction, he chants with dignity and inspiration and has faithfully taught young and old alike modern Greek language for over 40 years. He has truly been a valuable servant of the Lord and we appreciate his efforts greatly.
Anna Marakas Counelis is one of the most gifted ladies in our parish who has a professional career as a research assistant, distinguishing herself in that field and also managed a career as mother of two beautiful sons and has been a loyal, dedicated wife to our past president James Counelis. Since her early teenage years, she has assisted the choir as an accompanist and organist every Sunday throughout the past 50 years. She has accompanied the choir on its tours, at its conferences, and in the many and varied programs that the choir has presented, including the annual Christmas concert and other musical concerts. In her quiet, unassuming way, she has been the backbone of our worship experience in bringing her knowledge of the order of the church services and her commitment that has been an inspiration to one and all. She is a gifted artist who generously shares her gifts for the greater advancement of Our Lord’s Kingdom.
Demetrios Protopsaltais has distinguished himself as an educator who also received his doctorate in education and administration. He helped revitalize the Greek School program early in 1972 and built the program up to sixth grades, plus preschool. During his long 27 year tenure gave hundreds of students an opportunity of learning Greek as a second language and earning language credits to qualify for college admittance. He has represented the Parish at Greek School Teachers conferences throughout the state and is esteemed by his peers. He is gifted with a happy personality and displays his charms with humorous stories and Greek proverbs that are a delight to listen to.
It is our hope that all parishioners will come forward to offer their thanks and gratitude to these three outstanding individuals who have made such a great impact on the life and mission of our parish in the east bay. They have indelibly etched their accomplishments in the history of our Parish and remain paragons of virtue and integrity.
A delicious gourmet meal is being prepared with “Orektika” appetizers at 6:00 p.m. This evening begins with Vespers Service at 5:30 p.m. Adults $50.00, Students 17 and under $25.00. Reservation deadline – Monday, March 1, 1999.
For details please call the church office, (510) 530-3400.
