Approximately 60 people attended the New York City Deanery’s 2020 Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors Fund (“DDB”) dinner last night at St. Andrew’s Church in Dix Hills, NY. It was a serene, picturesque day as the sun was setting and the attendees began to arrive. Host pastor, Fr. John Klingel, welcomed the guests, many of whom took the opportunity to visit the church temple to see its beautiful iconography and stunning, newly refurbished copper-clad cupola. (Some photos follow at the end of this article.)
A lovely meal featuring shrimp oreganata, grilled lemon chicken, roast beef with gravy, penne a la vodka, green beans and brown rice, mashed potatoes, pierogis, salad and rolls was prepared by Peggy Klingel (with assistance from Uncle Giuseppe’s of Smithtown), who was also kindly helped with the preparations by Helen Voicu and Cristina Chiciu. Dessert included a delicious cake, a large chocolate chip cookie and strawberries, served in Grand Marnier. Guests also enjoyed a selection of wines and soft drinks.
In his remarks, His Eminence Archbishop Michael thanked all the assembled guests and those who were unable to attend for their generosity in support of the activities and life of the diocese. It was pointed out by many of the clergy in brief remarks, how essential the DDB has been in meeting the educational, evangelical and maintenance needs of the diocese and its parishes. A thoughtful video presentation created by Fr. Volodymyr Zablotskyy was viewed by the audience on a large monitor that Fr. Volodymyr had brought with him from Yonkers.
In addition to Fr. Volodymyr, visiting clergy included our district dean, Fr. Wiaczeslaw Krawczuk, Protopresbyter Leonid Kishkovsky and his wife, Mimi, Fr. Michael Roshak, Fr. John Bartholomew and his wife Doreen, Fr. Michael Meerson, and Fr. Martin Kraus and his wife, Dennise.
As well as supporting the essential work of the DDB, the evening was a delightful opportunity for members of our deanery to share fellowship in a pre-Lenten spirit. In congratulating all of the guests, Vladyka Michael presented certificates honoring the benefactors for their generosity and support. St. Andrew’s Church was truly blessed by this opportunity to host the dinner and enjoy the presence of so many faithful members of our beloved deanery.
