TSN0125

6 THE SHEPHERD • JANUARY 2025 • SAINT SPYRIDON GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH OF SAN DIEGO The festive season in Greece is rich with tra- ditions that celebrate faith, family, and the joy of life. Among these cherished customs, the singing of Greek carols, known as kálan- da (κάλαντα), stands out as one of the most enchanting and enduring practices. The word kálanda comes from the Latin cal- endae , referring to the first day of the month. This connection to beginnings is symbolic, as caroling often heralds the arrival of a new day, year, or event, bringing good wishes and blessings. The Ritual of Caroling Traditionally, caroling begins on Christmas Eve and continues through New Year's Eve and Epiphany Eve (January 5th). Groups of children, sometimes accompanied by adults, go door-to-door singing the kálanda to neighbors, family, and friends. Armed with triangles, tambourines, or small drums, they perform lively tunes that resonate with joy and warmth. In exchange, the carolers are offered small gifts such as coins, sweets, or traditional del- icacies like melomakárona (honey cookies) and kourabiédes (buttery almond cookies). This exchange symbolizes generosity and the spreading of good fortune. Regional Variations of Kálanda Each region of Greece has its own unique versions of kálanda, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural landscape: • MAINLAND GREECE: The Christmas carols here often include references to the Nativity, sung in a melodic and sol- emn tone. New Year’s carols, on the oth- er hand, honor Saint Basil (Agios Vas- ilis), wishing prosperity for the coming year. • ISLANDS OF THE AEGEAN: Island carols often have a more rhythmic and upbeat tone, accompanied by traditional instruments like the violin or lute. The lyrics may include nautical imagery, re- flecting the maritime culture of these regions. • EPIRUS AND MACEDONIA: These areas are known for their polyphonic singing and deep, resonant melodies. The kálanda here often have a mystical, almost ancient quality. • CRETE: Cretan carols are performed with the vibrant accompaniment of the lyra, a traditional string instrument, and often incorporate local dialect and poet- ic elements. Symbolism in the Lyrics The lyrics of Greek carols are more than just festive greetings; they are imbued with symbolism. Christmas carols typically nar- rate the birth of Christ, expressing hope and divine blessings. New Year’s carols frequent- ly honor Saint Basil, a figure akin to Santa Claus, and convey wishes for health, abun- dance, and happiness. Epiphany carols cel- ebrate the Baptism of Christ, emphasizing purification and renewal. Preserving a Timeless Tradition To date the tradition of kálanda remains vi- brant in Greece! Our goal as the Greek Lan- guage School is to keep this tradition alive in our community and ensure that our young- er generations appreciate and continue this musical heritage. Nancy Provataris, PhD Greek Language School Director GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL We are so sorry to announce the passing of our AHEPA Brother William (Bill) Diamond who passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024. Brother Bill was an AHEPAN for 43 years, a proud member of San Diego Chapter 223. He was recently honored with our Chapter’s AHEPAN OF THE YEAR Award 2024. A remarkable individual whose contributions to AHEPA have left an indelible mark on our organization and our community. William Diamond was a man whose commitment to our Hellenic values, love for his Greek heri- tage, and steadfast service to AHEPA have been nothing short of inspiring. Bill’s journey with AHEPA began 43 years ago, and he ex- emplified the very spirit of our organization. His leadership guided many projects and ini- tiatives, fostering community engagement, supporting our youth, and standing as a proud advocate for Hellenic values. Bill has not only contributed to our causes but has done so with a deep sense of purpose, integrity, and respect for the principles that AHEPA stands for. His love for the letters and Greek history was always evident in every conversation. His wisdom, kindness and generosity have inspired not only new generations of AHE- PANS, but also young students that came from Greece to study in the United States. His legacy of service reminds us all of the impact that one dedicated individual can have. Brother Bill will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers remain with his family. For those who would like to pay their respects, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that dona- tions be made in Bill's honor to St. Spyridon Greek School, 3655 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92103 and/or Saint Sophia Camp, 1324 S. Normandie Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90006 May his memory be eternal! A.H.E.P.A.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjUyNzc=