| WASHINGTON, DC – Supreme President Jimmy Kokotas, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., has issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks: “Today, on the solemn twentieth anniversary of September 11th, we remember the nearly 3,000 people, including 39 Greek Americans, who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks against the United States. We will never forget their sacrifice and our thoughts and prayers will always be with them and their families. Their memories will be eternal. “In times of tragedy, there are always individuals, whether they are emergency first responders or ordinary, everyday civilians, who are the first to respond. We salute and thank them for their brave acts of heroism on that fateful day in American history. “Soon, the only House of Worship destroyed on that fateful day in American history, will rise again. Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at World Trade Center will be a beacon for peace and a harbor for reflection for all. Proudly, the AHEPA family contributed to this most worthy endeavor to rebuild Saint Nicholas, and we look forward to its imminent opening. “Additionally, today is a National Day of Service and Remembrance. AHEPA encourages the community to not only remember the victims of September 11, but to also honor their memories by participating in acts of service to help strengthen our neighborhood, cities, towns, and communities. Service is our essence and many of our communities have been devastated by recent natural disasters. |
| “Together, we can all play an important role and provide a positive impact through volunteerism in support of service initiatives and in remembrance of September 11.” Supreme President Kokotas attended a 9/11 Memorial Service and Lighting of Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America that was held last evening. Daughters of Penelope Grand President Kathy Bizoukas, Chairman of the Board Nicholas A. Karacostas, PSP, and Daughters of Penelope Executive Director Elena Saviolakis also attended. Also, in the spirit of the community’s effort to rebuild Saint Nicholas, AHEPA shares an Associated Press article that appeared September 8, 2021, that reports on the significance of Saint Nicholas to those impacted by September 11 as it nears completion, titled, “Shrine to replace church destroyed on 9/11 nears completion.” Please share and distribute the article widely with family, friends, and colleagues. |