Eight members of St. George’s Orthodox Church School received their diplomas at graduation exercises held recently at the church.

GRADUATES of St. George’s Orthodox Church School are (left to right) Steven Tolias, Robert Rossetsky, John Solomon, David Franciosi, Lana Joseph, Elaine Tollas, Janis Sacre, and Joyce Boulis.

“The Star Spangled Banner” by Mrs. James Thomas opened the exercises, and invocation was offered by the pastor, Rev. Nifon Abraham,

Miss , class teacher, spoke to the graduates on continuing interest in church activities, and Mrs. John Abdallah, director of the Junior Choir, led in the chanting “It Is Truly Meet to Bless Thee, O Theotokas.” David Franciosi delivered an oration on “What My Church Means To Me,” and Fr. Nifon spoke on the subject of good reading. “The Cherubicum” was sung in Greek by the Junior Choir.

Mr. Gustave Sacre delivered a talk on “Christianity To A Layman,” Rev. Charles Aboody of Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, Boston, the guest speaker, spoke on “Faith and Rite” and of the minor differences between his church, the Melchite Roman Catholic and the Orthodox Catholic.

David Franciosi, on behalf of his class, presented Joseph Eysie of next year’s class, three books to start a religious library. Diplomas were given to the graduates by Fr. Nifon. Mrs. John Abdallah sang “Bless This House.”

Guests presented were Edward Kelley, president of the Men’s Society; Sally Peter, president of the Ladies’ Society; Michael Eysie, president of the Adult Fellowship; Emilie Moses, advisor; and Etether Deeb, honorary superintendent. The staff of the church school includes Samera Mike, Florence Esper, Judith Maloof, Maxine Deeb, Georgina Bolis, Hayes Kelley, assistant superintendent, Beverly Ferris, and Lillian Kelley. After the benediction by Fr. Aboody, a collation was served by the teachers. Roses presented were to Mrs. Abdallah by Rev. Nifon on behalf of the junior choir. Rev. Aboody was accompanied by the Rev. Richard Roughan of St. Mark’s, Westbrook, Conn.

Graduates are Steven Tolias, Robert Rossetsky, John Solomon, Davis Franciosi, Lana Joseph, Elaine Tolias, Janis Sacre, and Joyce Boulis.

(All articles were originally published in the Norwood Messenger unless otherwise noted)

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