The Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church saw a steady stream of visitors at their Greek Festival on Saturday, held at 265 West 3rd Street in Mansfield. The festival continues on Sunday and Greek spirit and food.
The crowds came in abundance despite the chilly, rainy weather most of the day on Saturday. However, inside the festival itself visitors could find warm food and even warmer spirits.
“The people here are so friendly and the food is delicious,” said festival guest Gary Jones. “We’re getting kisses and hugs from people we don’t even know.”
“It’s like family,” added his wife Linda.
The festival originally began more than 30 years ago as a fundraiser to build a new church after a devastating fire. Since then, it has grown into an opportunity for the small Greek community of Mansfield to grow and build relationships.
Authentic Greek music provided the backdrop to a delicious Greek meal, homemade by members of the church, including the infamous and authentic Greek pastries that were in high demand. Other attractions at the festival included vendors selling Greek-specific jewelry and other gifts, and tours of the church itself led by Fr. Michael Ellis.
100 percent of proceeds raised at the festival go into keeping the church a vibrant, healthy part of the community. Church member Phil Naumoff said his favorite part of the festival was the camaraderie of the Greek community to make sure the festival goes off without a hitch.
“I like that the church family comes together to put this together,” he said. “You have all these nationalities coming together to put this together, and it really helps us out.”
The festival continues one more day on Sunday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
