AGIOS

AGIOS
(Adults Gathering in an Orthodox Setting)

There were six parishioners who were sitting around Christine Drechsler’s kitchen table. All were riding on the excitement of the Lenten Retreat (held in Spring of 2002). The subject had been “Orthodox Parenting”. They all unanimously thought, “We need to do something like this again and more often!” The retreat that spring was informational, spiritually uplifting, and also an opportunity to meet people from our parish. Everyone tossed around great ideas of what we could do…. a Bible study, in-depth retreats, information sessions, etc. We wanted to learn more!

The team then became Christine Drechsler, Elli Koulos and Patty Ladas who stayed the course that soon became A.G.I.O.S. We had the support of our then parish priest, Fr. Chris Constantinides who was ready to leave for Maryland for his next assignment. Our mission was developed:

The mission of AGIOS is to offer Education, Inspiration and Fellowship for adults in our Church community to help us grow intellectually, spiritually, and in our Church and family relationships. By offering encouragement, support, and spiritual growth opportunities through fellowship, presentations, discussions, and Bible study, we strengthen members of our Church Family.

Father Peter Spiro soon arrived and enthusiastically helped us title the organization, “Adults Gathering In an Orthodox Setting.” Our October meeting, which was titled “The Orthodox View of Halloween”, brought approximately 30 parishioners who came armed with pumpkin carving utensils that were used after our discussion. Fun was had by all and so started the regular cycle of A.G.I.O.S. meetings.

Since this meeting, A.G.I.O.S. is in it’s third program year where attendees meet at church as couples and individuals and where babysitting is offered. A few December meetings were held at the home of Michael and Elli Koulos to explore a more relaxed atmosphere and to celebrate our friendship as a learning group.

To date, A.G.I.O.S. is open to all adults, married or single, and no membership fees are collected. Some of our more memorable topics included: Yiayiology, Temptation, Parents as Spiritual Leaders, Forgiveness and Forgiveness. Future topics include Iconography, The Life of the Virgin Mary, Modern Day Saints, Miracles of the Bible and Marriage Enrichment.

Although philanthropy is not in the mission of the organization, A.G.I.O.S assembled and distributed gift bags to the residents of The Greek-American Nursing Home in Wheeling, Illinois on November 1, 2003. We also visited a live nativity on two occasions during the Christmas season.

Elli Koulos and Christine Drechsler are currently directing A.G.I.O.S. Contact the church office for more information.

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