Greek-Canadian Games

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto (Canada)

Under the Jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

CHRIST IS RISEN! Greek-Canadian Games The inaugural Greek-Canadian Games was held on May 28-29, 2016, at Bill Crothers Secondary School in Markham, Ontario. On Saturday morning, following the arrival of the organizers, volunteers and athletes, as well as team orientation, the Opening Ceremonies were celebrated. His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios, assisted by Rev. Frs. Ignatios Delis and Triantafillos Porfiris, led all participants in chanting “Christ is Risen!” and in singing the Greek and Canadian national anthems. In the evening, His Eminence attended the Games’ successful banquet held at Crystal Fountain. On Sunday morning, Metropolitan Sotirios, assisted by Fr. Ignatios Delis, celebrated the Divine Liturgy for all participants in the gymnasium of Bill Crothers Secondary School. A humble, make-shift altar was created; hundreds of young athletes, together with their families, attended the holy service. Despite its atypical setting, the Divine Liturgy was full of faith and the prayers of all the pious Orthodox Christians. Before the youth approached to receive Holy Communion, His Eminence delivered a short homily on the Gospel Reading (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman – John 4:5-42) focusing on the importance of loving one another and our need to worship Christ as the True Messiah. The organization of the Games was led by Dr. Frank Karantonis, together with a group of committed young Greek community volunteers. The two-day event was a tremendous success and we thank and congratulate Dr. Karantonis and his team for their dedication and efforts. We hope and pray that the Greek-Canadian Games become an annual occurrence.