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6 THE SHEPHERD • SEPTEMBER 2025 • SAINT SPYRIDON GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH OF SAN DIEGO Dear families, students, and friends of our beloved community, We’re thrilled to announce that registra- tion for the upcoming Greek School year is officially open, and we’re offering an Early Bird Special through August 30th! Whether you’re returning or joining us for the first time, we welcome you with open arms and joyful hearts. This year, we’re embracing a more immer- sive learning curriculum designed especially for our little friends. Our goal is to bring the Greek language and culture to life—not just through textbooks, but through storytelling, music, dance, cooking, and hands-on activi- ties that spark curiosity and joy. We want our students to feel the rhythm of Greek life in every lesson, and to carry that spirit proudly into their homes and hearts. Our activity cal- endar will be shared in the next newsletter! At the heart of our program is a deep respect for our Greek Orthodox Faith, which con- tinues to guide and inspire our community. Through age-appropriate lessons and cele- brations of cultural and religious holidays, we help our students understand the values of compassion, humility, and love that are central to our tradition. Our faith is not just something we teach—it’s something we live, together. Greek School is more than just a classroom— it’s a community . It’s the γιαγιά (grand- mother) who brings koulourakia to share, the parents who volunteer their time, and the children who form lifelong friendships. It’s the way we show up for one another, cel- ebrate each other’s milestones, and preserve our heritage together. This is the spirit we shared with everyone at our “Meet & Greek” Brunch Open House on August 24th, right after church—a chance to connect, learn more about our program, and experience the warmth and joy that define our school. It is open to everyone! As we prepare for another beautiful year, I’m reminded of a quote that captures the es- sence of our mission: “Η ισχύς εν τη ενώσει.” Strength lies in unity. Thank you for your continued support, love, and dedication. Together, we are not just teaching a language—we are nurturing iden- tity, belonging, and faith. Με εκτίμηση (with appreciation and warm regards), Dr. Eleni Sinopoulou San Diego Greek Language School Director GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL The Journey to Greece 2025 trip sponsored by AHEPA concluded this summer. It is more than just an academic venture; it’s a cultural immersion experience. As genera- tional stewards of our heritage, it is crucial to foster, promote, and transmit the rich tradi- tions of our culture to the upcoming gener- ation of Hellenes and Philhellenes. This year we were proud to send 4 college-aged stu- dents from our Chapter 223 to participate in this summer’s program. Kiki Mellos, Athena Davis, Alexios Savvides, and John Savvides had an unforgettable time, earned 6 college credits, visited museums, archaeological sites, islands, churches and monasteries, ex- perienced dining and nightlife along with learning at the sites where it all happened. They returned brimming with valuable con- nections and a lifetime of cherished memo- ries! AHEPA Chapter 223 San Diego awarded this year’s scholarship to our St. Spyridon com- munity high school seniors. John Savvides, Vasiliki (Kiki) Mellos, and Marianna Newby were presented their cer- tificates and scholarships by Vice President Dino Paraskevopoulos on Sunday August 10th. Our chapter would like to offer our hearty congratulations and wish the students all the best in their studies. A.H.E.P.A.