Letter From The Editor

Written by Dina Teka-Efstathiou

Dear Goneis Family and Friends, It is hard to believe that the summer is over and we are entering one more school year full of activities! Our sons, Elias and Symeon, have the unique opportunity to attend the elementary school in our native country, Greece this year. Being closer with pappou and yiayia enriches and fulfils special family memories with loved ones, an important family bond. It is true that the Greeks of Diaspora continue to share a special connection with family members and their heritage. This depiction has been evident in a number of my trips when visiting Greek Orthodox Communities and Schools. I, recently, was very fortunate to visit the Annual Pan-Macedonian Conference in New York. It was inspiring to see the love and desire of the young Hellenic generation to meet and participate in well-organized cultural and educational exchange programs. All programs were tailor made for Greek ex-patriots. In fact, ex-patriots’ children in their travels to Greece are able to meet a lot of Greek students from around the world and make new friends since they have so many things in common. I congratulate the heartfelt efforts of previous and present generations for their vision and tiredless efforts to remain connected with our priceless heritage. It is important and rewarding to remember our roots and these activities add one more element in our children’s experience and rich identity.  Best regards and Happy Fall, Dina Teka-Efstathiou     Mission Statement Goneis Magazine is the only global Greek family magazine with carefully selected editorial content helping moms and dads celebrate the joys of parenthood and the Greek family of the 21st century. Our reading community has special cultural characteristics and Goneis makes every effort to shed light on our Hellenic traditions and history. We hope to inspire parents preserve priceless Hellenic heritage and transmit it to the young Greek Orthodox generation. Goneis showcases all the best for your family with an extensive variety of superior and visually dynamic articles, thus providing compelling insights into the fascinating way children develop in a global Greek environment. Surprise your relatives, friends and community with a glorious year-round gift! Goneis donates for every paid subscription $3 to the Greek Orthodox Parish or Greek Educational Institution of the subscriber’s choice, worldwide! If you enjoy reading Goneis pass it on to a friend. Please, become our ambassadors and help us spread the word about Goneis’ valuable cultural and philanthropic mission to the global Greek family and community. Join our reading family and we, together, will raise happy children and strengthen our communities in the 21st century. EΥΧΑΡΙΣΤΩ!