The Fourteenth Annual Benefit Banquet for International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) took place on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Adelphia Pan Athenian Grand Ballroom in Deptford, New Jersey. Hosted by the Greater Philadelphia Committee of IOCC, the event brought together clergy, parish leaders, and faithful from across the Delaware Valley for an evening of fellowship, faith, and philanthropy.
Now in its fourteenth year, the banquet has become a cherished tradition for the region’s Orthodox community. What began as a small local initiative has grown into one of the most enduring IOCC benefit events in the country, organized by a team of more than 50 volunteers representing Orthodox parishes throughout the area. Even during the pandemic, the committee held a virtual event that raised $50,000 for IOCC’s humanitarian work.
“I’m so grateful to be among people who love God and love to help others in need,” said Tony Pantazopoulos, chairman of the Greater Philadelphia IOCC Committee. “We’ve been doing this for fifteen years, and every year reminds us why we serve, because there are people around the world in devastating situations who need hope.”
The keynote address was delivered by Dimitrije Djukic, IOCC’s Deputy Director of Strategic Programs, who has spent nearly two decades working in the field. He spoke powerfully about his experiences responding to wildfires in Greece, earthquakes in Syria, and conflicts in Gaza and the Holy Land.
“I was in Gaza during two wars,” he recalled. “In 2012, I had to be evacuated in a United Nations convoy with rockets flying overhead. Despite all of that, I can honestly say I love what I do. IOCC is mission driven. We believe the Church is called to help people in need, and this is our way of doing that.”
Djukic explained how donations from supporters in Greater Philadelphia directly sustain IOCC’s emergency and development work, including providing food, water, medication, and clothing to displaced families at the Greek Orthodox St. Porphyrios Monastery in Gaza City, as well as rebuilding efforts in the United States after recent hurricanes in Tennessee and North Carolina.
IOCC Development Officer Louis A. Zagani also addressed the audience, thanking the local committee for their dedication and unity. “We’re so blessed to have a pan-Orthodox event in Philadelphia every year,” he said. “The world is full of division and suffering, but IOCC answers Christ’s call to be there for others, whether it’s in Ukraine, the Holy Land, or even Alaska after the recent floods.”
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when the committee honored the HOPE and JOY youth groups of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, who raised $2,100 for IOCC by creating and selling handmade stickers inspired by the life of Saint Nectarios.
Pantazopoulos met with the young fundraisers earlier this year and was deeply impressed. “These children understand that people are in need of food and care,” he said. “They felt it in their hearts that they were helping people who are truly suffering. Their parents raised them in such a beautiful way. Just imagine what they’ll be like when they grow up.”
Anna Koulas, director of the St. Demetrios Sunday School, accepted the recognition on behalf of the children. “We’re honored and humbled to receive this acknowledgment for our students’ efforts,” she said. “Their compassion and commitment reflect the values we try to teach: empathy, service, and global responsibility. Partnering with IOCC allows them to be part of something much greater than themselves.”
To commemorate the moment, each child received an icon of the Good Samaritan, a symbol of love in action and a reminder that every act of kindness has lasting impact.
The evening closed with gratitude, laughter, and renewed commitment to IOCC’s mission. Together, local committees like the one in Greater Philadelphia raise more than $800,000 each year for IOCC’s global programs. Since its founding in 1992, IOCC has provided humanitarian aid and development assistance in more than 60 countries, continuing the Orthodox Christian call to serve those in need around the world.
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