Senate Resolution No. 309

BY: Senator GOLDEN

COMMEMORATING the 85th Anniversary of the Kimisis
Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church on February 3, 2017

WHEREAS, Throughout the storied history of New York State, there
have emerged among its noble institutions certain houses of worship
which have become distinguished through their spiritual leadership and
commitment to service, and therefore warrant special recognition; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to take note of a
significant milestone in the history of such a religious institution,
bringing to the attention of the people of this Empire State the
commemoration of the 85th Anniversary of the Kimisis Theotokou Greek
Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 85th Anniversary of the Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox
Church, to be celebrated with its Annual Dinner Dance on Friday,
February 3, 2017, at Russo's on the Bay, Howard Beach, New York; and

WHEREAS, Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church has long been a
valuable resource for the people and families living in the surrounding
neighborhoods of Brooklyn, offering a varierty of outstanding programs
and services; and

WHEREAS, The members of this parish share a common belief in lending
a helping hand, and their kindness and good deeds extend a message of
hope to the needy in the area and beyond; and

WHEREAS, From its humble beginnings as a small church founded by a
group of Greek immigrants, Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church has
grown into a vital institution with a wealth of resources for the
community; and

WHEREAS, In 1933, just two years after its inception, Kimisis
Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church established the Ladies Philoptochos
Society; just three years later, the church saw its founding of the
Adelphato of Aghia Markella; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, in 1966, thanks to the dedication of Soterios
Ellenas, Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church opened its own
parochial school; today, the church has a tremendous reputation for its
ministry and its commitment to the people of Brooklyn; and

WHEREAS, The tremendous growth of Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox
Church throughout its distinguished 85-year history is due in large part
to the able stewardship of its priests: Reverend George Menexopoulos,
Reverend Simeon Emanuel, Reverend Ioannis Strongilos, the late
Metropolitan Titus Siligardakis, the late Metropolitan Evdokimos
Kokkinakis, Reverend James Bogiatzis and the Very Reverend Damaskinos V.
Ganas; and

WHEREAS, Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church now stands on the
threshold of tomorrow, prepared to meet the challenges of the coming
decades, while retaining that spiritual resolve which has so
characterized its glorious past; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to now take note
of this venerable institution which has so long endured, bringing the
commemoration of this most significant milestone, its 85th Anniversary,
to the attention of all of the people of this great Empire State; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
acknowledge and pay just tribute to the Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox
Church of Brooklyn, New York, upon the joyous occasion of its 85th
Anniversary, noting with gratitude and respect the ministry it caringly
provides on behalf of its congregation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Kimisis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church, Brooklyn, New
York.