Philoptochos
Philoptochos (pronounced fee-LOP-toe-chos) means "friend of the poor." Our chapter is the St. Irene Philoptochos Society.
Our purpose is to be obedient to the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, who taught those who would be His disciples to put helping those in need first, with compassion, generosity and service at the heart of the Christian life.
You're Invited!
Please join us as we grow our membership so that we can do even more for those in need. Whether you are new to St. Katherine or a long-time parishioner, we encourage you to become a member of St. Irene Philoptochos.
Membership is open to all Orthodox women (and men) over 18. Men and non-Orthodox Christian women may join as associate members. Annual dues are $35.
Printable 2026 membership application: fill it out, print it, and give it with a $35 check to the Membership Chair or the church office
Questions about our ministry or membership? Ask any Philoptochos member, contact our Philoptochos lead, Kathy Connell, at madgreekkathy@aol.com, or contact the church office. You can also follow us on Facebook.
About Philoptochos
Philoptochos was founded in 1931 as a women's organization, continuing the age-old tradition in Greece of the women of the Church serving their communities. We are still mostly women, and we welcome the men who support and serve with us. We have been called "the right hand of the Church": we help whenever we are asked or whenever we learn of a need. The parish of St. Katherine has been wonderfully supportive throughout its history.
What We Do
Provide outreach and help for parishioners in need, at the direction of and in consultation with our priest
Donate toward relief after national and international disasters
Raise funds each year for water and heat relief for people experiencing homelessness in our area
Support The Sleeping Bag Project ("Everyone Deserves a Warm Night's Sleep") by collecting money to buy sleeping bags for the homeless
Support Kids 'n' Cancer Camp Agape, together with the other parishes of our Metropolis: a fully funded family camp for families with a child facing cancer or another life-threatening condition. When a child suffers, the whole family suffers; the camp gives these families a chance to be together, with other families, and to heal a little. We have been offering this God-blessed gift to Arizona families for 18 years.
Remember our homebound parishioners with phone calls through the year and seasonal baked goods at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Pascha
Provide holiday grocery gift cards at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Pascha for families in need in our community
Prepare paximadia (Greek cookies) and koliva (boiled wheat) for memorial services
Support the initiatives of our Metropolis and National Philoptochos