Rough Start Turns to Celebration at 2025 Greek Festival
MANSFIELD – What began as a tense morning at the 2025 Greek Festival quickly transformed into a day of resilience, culture, and celebration after a bomb threat temporarily disrupted festivities at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Christian Church on West 3rd Street.
Mansfield Police Division Officers, along with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, responded to the church after receiving reports of a Bomb Threat. While officials believe the call was a prank, Mansfield Police emphasized that it is being taken seriously and will be fully investigated.
Although believed to be a prank threat, “Mansfield Police Division assures the public this is not being taken lightly and will be investigated to the fullest extent of the law, commented a MPD Sgt.”
Despite the unsettling start, the festival — the church’s largest annual fundraiser — pressed forward with determination and joy. By early afternoon, lines were already spilling out the doors, families filled the grounds, and the aroma of authentic Greek cuisine once again filled the air.
Community and Faith Overcome Disruption
Father Michael Ellis, who has served the parish for 16 years, said the scare didn’t dampen the congregation’s mission of hospitality.
“We have a little bit of a hiccup in our startup today, but everything is running. Everybody’s here. The line is already out the back door,” Ellis said. “We love opportunities to bring the community together. Regardless of anybody else’s thoughts or ideas, we want everybody to come, eat with us, dance with us, talk with us, get to know us. It’s going to be a good day.”
Ellis described the Greek Festival as more than just a fundraiser. While the two-day event supports the church’s operations, it also serves as a cultural and spiritual celebration.
“For us, it’s multifaceted. We’re Greek Orthodox Christians, and this is an opportunity to welcome people into our community,” he explained. “Clearly, it’s a fundraiser, but it’s also about fellowship. Just come and be casual. There’s no pressure here.”
Tradition and Flavor
Leah, a longtime member of the parish, said the Greek Festival has been a Mansfield tradition for decades.
“I’m 33 years old, and it’s been happening since before I was born — probably since the mid-1980s,” she said. “This fundraiser basically keeps the lights on and pays for everything, including Father Michael. We do it all in two days.”
She highlighted the variety of authentic offerings: gyros, lamb, traditional Greek dishes, and of course, baklava.
“Don’t eat American today — eat Greek!” Leah joked. “We also have church tours, so people can learn about the Greek Orthodox faith. It’s very open and welcoming.”
Festival-goers also enjoyed live Greek music, traditional dancers performing throughout the day, and a family-friendly atmosphere that encouraged visitors to immerse themselves in Greek culture.
Gratitude and Moving Forward
By early afternoon, the focus had shifted away from the morning’s disruption. Smiles returned, laughter filled the air, and festival organizers expressed gratitude to local law enforcement for their swift response.
“Thanks to the brave men and women of the Mansfield Police Division and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad,” organizers said.
The Greek Festival concludes tonight at 10 p.m., offering one last chance for the public to enjoy authentic Greek food, live entertainment, and the warm hospitality of Sts. Constantine and Helen’s community.
As Father Ellis put it: “Come be with us. Be part of our community and enjoy a day with us.”
