At Saint Mark, we were blessed to host our Annuual Greek Festival, where between 15,000 to 20,000 visitors stepped through our doors, explored our campus, and experienced the warm embrace of our Saint Mark family. What a joy it was to welcome so many into our spiritual home, offering them not just a glimpse of our culture and traditions but also the profound depth of our faith in Jesus Christ. Each handshake, each conversation, and each church tour was an opportunity to share the love of Christ and the beauty of Orthodoxy.

Welcoming others is not merely an act of hospitality—it is a blessing. Through these encounters, we are reminded of our mission to be a light in the world, sharing the faith that has transformed our lives. We grow spiritually as we extend our love and open our doors, allowing others to encounter the peace and joy that come from God.

This festival wasn’t just an event; it was a ministry. It allowed us to build relationships, answer heartfelt questions, and witness how God is moving in the lives of those around us. Each interaction carried the potential to plant seeds of faith, offering a touchpoint with the Church and a connection to Christ. As we reflect on the festival’s success, we are deeply grateful for our parish volunteers who worked tirelessly to create an environment of warmth and welcome, embodying Christ’s call to love one another.

As a natural next step, we are excited to announce that our Discover Orthodoxy class will begin this Sunday, offering a five-week journey into the teachings and life of the Orthodox Church. We invite all who are curious to join us, as we continue to grow together in faith and love.