Rev. Paros blessing Festival volunteers. Long lines for Souvlaki and Loucoumades.
Everyone dreams of a summer island escape to the land of magic: Greece. Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Whitestone, NY gave a taste of Greek culture in their annual Festival, Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8 at 150-05 12th Ave., a Festival with FREE ADMISSION. The cuisine attraction is Loukoumades. Greek music was played in the background. Rides were set up to entertain children. Numerous games, novelties, gifts and jewelry by independent vendors were offered. A grand raffle was available. A long line for Souvlaki cooked before your eyes was seen. Pastichio, Cypriot Delights, Mousaka, Tiropita, Spanakopita, and Greek Pastries were sold.
The 109th Precinct had a prominent presence. Streets were blocked off. Police and auxiliary police were prominently seen. The community enjoyed quality of life with a strong police presence. The church hall was organized with food preparation teams, which was simply amazing.
Fr. Nicolaos Paros is the priest. He joined the Holy Cross family on November 16, 2023. The 2025 Council President is Nick Livaditis. Festival Chairperson is George Isaakidis. For more information, contact Niovi Phillipou, Church Secretary at jnfo@holycrossgreekchurch.com and telephone (718) 767-2943.
“We’re kicking off our festival today, June 5th, marking the beginning of the first week of June,” said Father Paros. “It is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together—our parents, our children—and to support our parish. More importantly, it is time to strengthen fellowship and build lasting connections with one another.
Father Nicolaos continued, “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, we look back with gratitude, and honor our past, while embracing the future with hope and excitement. This is a significant milestone for our community.”
I have been following the growth of Holy Cross Church since Elias Betzios and real estate broker Theo Theodore found the church site in late 1970’s. The Holy Cross Greek Orthodox church establishment created a dynamic community in Queens, New York.
“We showcase custom and sterling silver jewelry at our booth,” said vendor Amalia Bollanos. “In particular we have crosses in all different styles. Jewelry with eyes, name plates, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces are displayed. My husband Peter helps.” Amalia has been coming for many years.
Irene Cheung, community activist, said, “the Festival is supported by the neighborhood, with people walking by. I’ve lived in Queens for about 40 years, and I’ve been surrounded by people from many different backgrounds. I feel welcome and bring my friends along.”
Generations of families support the church, like Angie Fokas, whose late husband Tony worked for many years on the parish council. The church has many organizations for everyone: Greek Afternoon School, PTA, Philoptochos Society, Mommy & Me, Stars Academy, and Sunday School.
Costa & Maria Ioannou were honored at the 3rd Annual Monte Carlo Night, hosted by Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Whitestone on January 30th, 2025. Holy Cross has been a pillar of support and comfort to the Ioannou family, the Joanna Sophia Foundation, and the Whitestone community. The Joanna Sophia Foundation supports Holy Cross Church and its vital mission in the community. For more information, contact www.holycrossgreekchurch.com.
The 2025 Parish Council includes: Nick Livaditis, President; George Isaakidis, First Vice President; Jimmy Fokas, Second Vice President; Apostolos Paralikas, Treasurer; Joanna Philips, Assistant Treasurer; Athena Demetrakopoulos, Assistant Treasurer; Dimitrios Antonakis, Secretary; Margie Demetriou; Barbara Dilos; Constantinos (Gus) Karalekas; Effie Karalekas; Maria Konstantelis-Pitirigas; Peter Kontolios; George Mihalios; Peter Pallos; Konstantina Pashalis; Tom Patilis; Andreas Savvas; John Sakelos; George Tselekas; and Andrew Vagenas.
