The AHEPA family attended 2022 Epiphany celebrations in Tarpon Springs, Fla., and kicked-off events to commemorate AHEPA’s Centennial Anniversary.

As part of the festivities, AHEPA held its 88th Annual Epiphany banquet where Supreme President Jimmy Kokotas presented the inaugural AHEPA Twin Pillars of Hellenism Award to His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who accepted the award on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Jan. 5, 2022, at the Spanos Hellenic Center at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.

“I am proud to stand before you this evening in order to receive – on behalf of the Archdiocese – the inaugural AHEPA Twin Pillars of Hellenism Award,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said in acceptance of the award. “It is spiritually invigorating to witness AHEPA’s commitment to Orthodoxy and Hellenism. AHEPA! One Pillar established one hundred years ago, together with the other, our Sacred Archdiocese — the premier Eparchy of the Ecumenical Throne. Together, we uphold what is best, as well as what is most noble and true of our shared Greek Orthodox tradition.”

Additionally, former U.S. Rep. Michael Bilirakis received the AHEPA Lifetime Achievement Award (accepted by his son, U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis) and Manuel Pihakis received AHEPA Hall of Fame honors for excellence in Wrestling.

In addition to Supreme President Kokotas, Daughters of Penelope Grand President Kathy Bizoukas, Maids of Athena Grand President Maria Ana Pantelous, Chairman of the Board Nicholas A. Karacostas, PSP; Sons of Pericles Supreme Secretary Dino Giallourakis, and AHEPA Family National Lodge officers and Board members, attended events throughout the week.

The Supreme Lodge and Board of Directors also held meetings and AHEPA Chapter 16’s Epiphany Golf Tournament at the Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor, Fla., served as part of the festivities, Jan. 8, 2022.

Photo Credit: D. Panagos/GOA