The Good Samaritans of St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church
The Good Samaritans have a rich history within St. Andrew. Throughout the years the programs and projects have changed, but one thing remains steadfast, the Good Samaritans devotion to St. Andrew.
On December 28, 1926, the first parish priest at St. Andrew, Father Mazokopakis, arranged a “coffee” for the women of the parish. His intentions went beyond a warm beverage. “I would like you women to become the right arm of St. Andrew,” Mazokopakis told them.
“The purpose of this organization,” Father Mazokopakis wrote in Greek, “will be to cultivate the spirit of mutual respect among the members; to financially and materially support the holy mission of our church, and the institutions of our archdiocese and our community.”
This marked not only the formation of the first women’s organization, within St. Andrew, but a commitment from those women to dedicate their time, hard work, love and hearts to the church. Nearly a century later, the Good Samaritans still stand true to Father Mazokopakis’ written purpose.
Over the years, 250 female members and one honorary male member, have left their impact. The Good Samaritans through their tireless works to date have donated more than one million dollars to St. Andrew.
Given their numerous contributions to St. Andrew, the parish council honored the organization by naming the first building built on the current site the Good Samaritan Cultural Center.
The Good Samaritans continue their commitment and devotion to St. Andrew. Major project contributions include the building fund, the Good Samaritan Cultural Center kitchen equipment, dome restoration fund, mortgage payoffs, down payment towards land purchase, boiler fund, baptismal font, kouvouklion. Smaller projects: purchasing choir, altar boy and cantor robes, giving financial support towards the dance troop costumes, and Sunday School.
Another commitment is the generous contributions to SAREF. By giving monies to the endowment fund the Good Samaritans are helping ensure St. Andrew remains a steadfast part of our community for years to come.
Since 1999, over 30 scholarships have been awarded to graduating seniors of the Sunday School and to parish college students totaling nearly $20,000.
The Good Samaritans do not forget those in need. Monetary donations are made to the discretionary fund and individuals in need. Funds have been donated to hurricane, flood and 9/11 victims. Support is given to local organizations such as the Salvation Army, Ronald McDonald House, St. Margaret’s, Casie Center, Hannah House, CASA The Family and Children’s Center and also to those who help the homeless and hungry.
The Good Samaritans hold monthly meetings at the church, check the bulletin for dates and times. We welcome you to join us and help continue the mission that was established over ninety years ago.
Membership
Annual Membership Dues are $25.
For further information about joining the Good Samaritans contact Cindy Crawford, Terri Stavros, Sigrid Thanos or Connie Kuzydym or any Good Samaritan member.