Greenville Prepares for Much-Anticipated Annual Greek Pastry Sale on November 21

Greenville Gears Up for Annual Greek Pastry Sale!

As clouds gather overhead and the rain gently taps against the windows, the bustling kitchens of St. George Greek Orthodox Church are alive with activity – all in preparation for the much-loved annual Greek pastry sale on November 21. With the forecast predicting a high of 62°F and a chance of rain, this year’s event promises to be a delightful indoor affair for everyone who appreciates scrumptious desserts.

Sweet Preparations in Full Swing

This past Tuesday morning, around 20 spirited church members gathered bright and early, ready to whip up thousands of sweet treats. By 11:30 a.m., many had already made a significant dent in their ambitious goal of baking over 1,000 kourambiedes, a delightful almond cookie dusted with powdered sugar that is a staple of Greek celebrations.

The excitement simmered in the air, as the clattering of mixing bowls and laughter echoed throughout the commercial kitchen. Poulia Giannapolous, a mainstay in the church’s baking efforts, proudly pointed to her hand and declared it her “measure cup.” There’s something so special about these women who have spent countless hours in their kitchen, crafting treats through years of hard work, tradition, and, most importantly, love.

A Tradition Rooted in Community and Charity

The Greek pastry sale isn’t just about delicious cookies and pastries; it’s a wonderful opportunity for community bonding and a chance to give back. This cherished tradition began back in 1967, sparked by immigrant women eager to share their rich culture while supporting Philoptochos, the church’s charitable organization. Throughout the years, the sale has helped raise funds for various local causes, with this year’s proceeds benefiting organizations such as Miracle Hill Ministries and Safe Harbor, as well as aiding Hurricane Helene relief efforts.

“We want to host the community and have them learn a little bit about the Greek culture,” shares Mary Koutroulias, a devoted baker who has witnessed the event’s growth first-hand. It’s a beautiful way to foster connections and showcase the love and passion poured into the food they create.

A Menu of Divine Delicacies

Come November 21, visitors can expect a feast for the senses with a variety of mouth-watering options, from sweet pastries to savory dishes. Alongside the famous kourambiedes, attendees can look forward to indulging in baklava, koulourakia, and hearty offerings such as moussaka and grape leaves. Whether you’re picking up a sweet treat for yourself or getting a dish to share at your holiday table, there’s something for everyone at the sale.

Record-Keeping for Future Generations

With decades of experience, Giannapolous has taken on the responsibility of keeping these cherished recipes alive. Last year, she began the important task of writing down the long-guarded secrets handed down from generations past, ensuring that their rich culinary heritage will continue to thrive.

“There is a lot of heart and soul in this kitchen,” Koutroulias remarks, as the women momentarily pause for lunch, refueling for another day of baking. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose fills the room, creating an atmosphere that feels more like family than simply a group of volunteers.

Join the Festivities!

The annual Greek pastry sale and luncheon will open its doors from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 406 N. Academy St., Greenville. Don’t miss your chance to savor these delightful offerings while supporting a noble cause. For a complete list of pastries or to place an order ahead of time, head on over to stgeorgegreenville.org for more details.

So grab your umbrellas and your appetites, because this year’s bake sale is not just about pastries; it’s about community spirit and celebrating the beautiful traditions that link us all together. See you there!