The Society of Epirotes of Philadelphia “Omonia” marked the new year this past Sunday with its annual Vasilopita cutting at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, following the Divine Liturgy.
The service also included a special recognition of the patron saint of Ioannina in Epirus, Agios Georgios of Ioannina, honoring the spiritual roots shared by many members of the organization before the traditional blessing of the New Year’s cake.
After church, parishioners and society members gathered in the cathedral hall for coffee and the annual cutting. The event continued with the first general assembly of the year for the Epirotes chapter, where members discussed upcoming activities and priorities for 2026. Among the main items on the agenda was the society’s annual “Tsipourovradia,” which is scheduled to take place on February 7, 2026, at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church.
Founded in 1938, the Society of Epirotes of Philadelphia “Omonia” was established by immigrants from Ioannina and the wider region of Epirus who settled in the Delaware Valley during the early waves of Greek migration. For nearly nine decades, the organization has played a central role in preserving Epirote traditions in the Philadelphia area and maintaining strong ties between generations.
The meeting concluded with the formal cutting of the Vasilopita, a tradition that has been part of the society’s history for generations. Each year, the member who finds the flouri, the hidden coin, is awarded a symbolic gift. This year’s good fortune belonged to Sofia Steperouva, who received a $500 check from the society.
Beyond cultural events, the Society of Epirotes of Philadelphia remains actively involved in charitable causes, including financial support for community needs, church-related initiatives, and humanitarian efforts connected to Greece.