Saint Barbara's Philoptochos Society

St. Barbara’s Philoptochos

Our Mission: To promote charitable, benevolent and philanthropic outreach; to preserve the sanctity of life and family; and to perpetuate and promote our Orthodox faith and traditions. Oakmont's Saint Barbara's Philoptochos is comprised of adult women from the parish who function as the charitable and philanthropic heart of the parish.

Philoptochos Officers:

President - Kay Doas

Vice President - Olympia Arthur

Secretary - Ida Labella

Treasurer - Diane Lingeris

 

Upcoming Events:

Christmas Card fundraiser - starts now and ends November 16.  $15 per family.  See Olympia after Liturgy.

St. Barbara's Monthly Lunch Event will be November 12th at 12 noon, location is Knead Cafe at 1011 Barnes Street, New Kensington, PA  15068. As always RSVP to rtdenillo@gmail.com ASAP so she can let them know how many are attending.  Thanks!

RSVP by November 30 for the Holiday Brunch - St. Barbara's Philoptochos is sponsoring a HOLIDAY BRUNCH on December 6, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Riverside Landings Event Center.  All women of the Dormition of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church are invited to attend.  RSVP Deadline is November 30, 2025.  Cost is $25.00 per person.  Please RSVP via one of two methods:  Pay ONLINE with a credit/debit card, or pay by CHECK and either mail-in or drop in the Church Office mailbox (outside the office door).  If you have any questions, please contact Susan Spiridonakos at (724) 622-7976 (text or call) or email susan@spir90.net.

First Responders and Thanksgiving Covered Dish Luncheon – Sunday, November 9
We are now signing up members to bring side dishes, desserts, and drinks for this special potluck meal. Please see Olympia Arthur after Liturgy in the Social Hall to sign up for something wonderful to share.

Ongoing Collections
We are continuing our three initiatives which include donations, and your support makes such a difference.

Trauma Teddys: Collecting new or gently used stuffed animals for Resilience Neighborhood Initiatives to comfort children in emergencies.

Hygiene Supplies: Ongoing drive for local high schools. We are collecting soaps, lotions, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other self-care items for young women and men. We also continue to collect small make-up bags so that we can package these hygiene items together.

Birthday Kits: We are collecting a cake mix, a can of frosting, a disposable aluminum pan, candles, and a can of Sprite to create complete “Birthday Kits” for our local food pantry. When someone visits the pantry and has a special day coming up, they can receive one of these kits to help them celebrate. The can of Sprite replaces the eggs and oil in the cake mix — and yes, it truly works and tastes delicious! All of these items can be found at the dollar store, making it an easy and meaningful way to spread joy.

Membership Forms and Welcome Kit
Attached to this email are two helpful documents: the Philoptochos Membership Form and the Philoptochos Welcome Kit. The Welcome Kit provides a clear and friendly overview of who we are, what we do, and how you can take part in ways that fit your schedule. The Membership Form can be printed and filled out at home and brought to church, or you can pick up a copy in the Narthex. We ask all ladies of the church to complete a form, whether you are renewing your membership or joining for the first time.  If you would like to get involved, help with a committee, or learn more about upcoming projects, we would love to hear from you.  Option:  Pay your 2026 Philoptochos Membership Dues online.

December 7 - St. Barbara's Nameday and Memorial for all members no longer with us.  Loukoumades will be served in the Social Hall after Liturgy.  Please volunteer to help set up, serve and clean up.

December 14 - Philoptochos Meeting after Liturgy.

To learn about our mission & activities, please join us at a meeting and/or speak with one of our members.

View the Master Philoptochos Calendar

 

Coffee Hour Sponsors Needed

Our Sunday coffee hour gives us a chance to visit with friends, but also to exercise our philoxenia, or hospitality, towards our guests and newcomers to the parish, who have just participated in the Divine Liturgy with us.  We are currently in need of hosts for Sunday coffee hours for many dates (see below).  Two families can share the cost.  If you are unable to purchase the items for coffee hour, consider donating the necessary amount to Philoptochos, who will then arrange for purchases and setup.  How to sign up to sponsor a coffee hour?  Contact Mary McCrady at (412) 828-7549.  What to purchase:  Coffee Hour Shopping List

Available Coffee Hour Dates:

2026 January 4, 11, 18, 25

2026 February 1, 8, 15, 22

2026 March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Need to find a Sunday to sponsor a coffee hour?  View a 2025 Calendar   View a 2026 Calendar


Get Involved:  Become a Philoptochos Member!  To join or renew your membership, proceed to the Membership Form or scan the QR Code below.

If you prefer to pay by check, send your $30 check made payable to:  St. Barbara’s Philoptochos Society Membership Drive, 12 Washington Avenue, Oakmont, PA  15139.  Please be sure to include your name, address, telephone number and email address.


I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me into your home.

Matthew 25:35

DONATE!  We need your Support Today! 

* Please be sure to select PHILOPTOCHOS from the drop-down menu options!