There was a special commemoration for the events of September 11, 2001, at the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrios in Elmhurst, IL.
In the Orthodox Church, Sunday is commemorated as “the day of the Lord” representing the Resurrection of Christ, the ultimate Victory over death. The Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrios was packed with hundreds of parishioners on 9/11; however, it was not just an ordinary Sunday service.
A very special and emotional memorial service took place commemorating the heroic and innocent victims who were tragically killed on 9/11 along with the brave first-responders who lost their lives attempting to save others. Father Andrew Georganas led the service with altar boys, chanters and the American and Greek flags surrounding the memorial service table. Lit candles symbolizing the Light of God bringing hope to all His people, sweet-smelling basil, pictures depicting the September 11th events, a fire helmet and police hat all sat on the table while the congregation participated in the service.
Elmhurst City representatives joined in on the commemoration, as well as local fireman, and the church also welcomed a high school friend of Father Andrew’s, Lieutenant Colonel Remi Hajjar, who has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Hawaii and several other parts of the world. Together with the congregation, they prayed for the souls of those lost on that fateful day, for strength for the families, for all the brave men and women of the military who fight to protect this country, and most importantly, for peace in the world.
Patriotic music was played in the Fellowship Hall as parishioners gathered after church, uniting all as not only Greeks, but also as Americans, united as a country, community and parish.
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