Santa Barbara AHEPA Chapter 243

FR. PAUL”S 10TH ANNIVERSARY
ORDER OF AHEAPA
SANTA BARBARA CHAPTER #243

GIFT PRESENTATION

We are all gathered here today to participate in a very special weekend in which we celebrate the name day of our Patron Saint-Saint Barbara and rejoice on the anniversary of the Ordination of Fr. Paul Paris into the Holy Priesthood of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
It takes a very special person to acknowledge and move forward to answer this inner spiritual calling. Above all he represents Christ and the Church, awakening the souls of those that are drawn to him, as they seek the Spiritual Path to their reconciliation with God. Each of us sees him as one individual. He sees us as individuals of a larger community, which means that he must use his God-given talents to connect with each of us for mutual understanding and Healing.
We expect him to be Preacher, Counselor, Comforter, Teacher, Encourager, and Leader. This is why in our stewardship of this Church, as individuals and as members of committees and organizations, we work with our Priest to accomplish his greater vision.
Eighty-Three years ago The Order of Ahepa was established to assist our forefathers in becoming part of the mosaic of the American experience. This organization has evolved into an International organization promoting Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence.
This local chapter has a very rich history of participation and accomplishment in both our civic and Parish communities. We are very Blessed to have Fr. Paul as an active, participating member of our chapter. He is at every meeting. He provides a link to our Parish community which gives us insight as to how we can be of service locally. Fr. Paul’s loving personality and sense of humor is welcomed and lends itself to a win-win attitude within this very enthusiastic and energetic chapter.
Fr. Paul, I have the Honor of representing the members of Chapter #243 in presenting our gift to you in joyful recognition of your years of Reverent service. Along with this come our prayers that you know that you are always protected, that your needs will always be provided for, and that you will always be guided to the correct course of action in what ever you chose to undertake.