The Ladies of the Philoptochos Society of Saints Peter & Paul Greek Orthodox Church in Glenview hosted the annual “Jolly Old St. Nicholas Holiday Faire” Saturday. The Greek word “Philoptochos” translates as “friends of the poor” and at Saints Peter & Paul, the Philoptochos Society is the fundraising arm of the parish.
“St. Nicholas still inspires us today,” said event chairwoman Kris Tsitsis. “We spend months preparing for the fair, making great food and pastries, decorating and gathering prizes for our raffle to help fulfill our Philoptochos Society’s fundamental mission, to help people who are facing unfortunate circumstances.”
As has been the tradition for over 50 years, Greek cuisine and culture were center stage with an array of Greek holiday desserts for sale, including such favorites as baklava and karithopita (spicy walnut cake), diples (fried dough strips drenched in honey and nuts), and melomakarona (an egg-shaped cookie made from semolina dipped in honey), in addition to handmade breads.
About 350 lunches were served, with food prepared by parish members. The menu featured Greek-style pork tenderloin, pilaf rice with lemon and spanakopita (spinach pies).
Sixteen vendors sold gifts, ornaments, jewelry, soaps, leather handbags, accessories and holiday-themed woodcraft. There were also Greek items for sale, from Saints Peter and Paul Book and Icon Store, and from Gifts by Panos, who offered custom street signs, with the names of Greek villages where families have their roots, also known as “horios.”
“For Greek-Americans, ‘what horio do you come from?’ is a common question and many people identify with others who come from the same village,” Tsitsis said.
The “Children’s Candy Cane Room” offered visits and photos with Santa Claus and free ice cream for the kids.
“The holiday fair is held every year in the spirit of St. Nicholas, known for his mercy and for providing for the poor,” Tsitsis said. “St. Nicholas is one of the best-known and loved saints of all time in the Orthodox Church.”
Following the holiday fair, Saints Peter & Paul Church will continue to honor St. Nicholas throughout the holiday season during its liturgies. Later in December, children from the parish will place gifts for children from needy families near the church altar as they learn about community service to others.
Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.