October 13, 2012. Philadelphia. Father Alexandros Kanaktrakis kicked off the Saturday night Festival dancing with an introduction and best wishes for a new year to his congregation. He recently transferred from Atlantic City’s St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox church to fill the spot of Father Prokopios, who passed away this past spring.
Evangelismos Greek Orthodox (Bustleton Ave.) church is the last stop for Big fall festivals for Cosmos Philly. Intimate and cozy are the best words to describe this neighborhood event. It’s a one stop, one tent event, squeezed on to the edges of the church parking lot, which lies adjacent to the church.
From our seats, the distinct smell of fresh gyros, mingled with the sounds of Greek music creating an inviting atmosphere. “Yasou barba!” For true Greek (language) lovers, authentic Greek was spoken more often than not in conversation. It truly felt, like a small Panigiri had been uprooted, (Festival) and transferred from Greece to Philadelphia.
Evangelismos Greek Orthodox church is known for it’s traditional Greek Spanokopita that is made by hand every year in the church hall. They make their own “Filo” (pastry), adding to their authenticity of traditional Greek food.
If your looking for old world charm and tradition, it’s Evangelismos Greek Orthodox church on Bustleton Ave.