A Nickel and a Nail . . . 40 Years Later
By Kristen Bruskas (Director of Development and Communications – Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco)
This is an historic year for Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, as we celebrate 40 years of this remarkable ministry. With just a nickel and nail, found in the big red barn 40 years ago, Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center went from a dream to a reality. It is because of your generosity, care and love for the Ranch that these past 40 years have been impactful on so many different levels for the faithful of all ages in our Metropolis. We are grateful to His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, the leadership of Rev. Father John Bakas, and the generosity of Nick and Sandy Kossaras and family for their extraordinary efforts to create place of fellowship for people of all ages.
(Photo Credit: Kristen Bruskas).
“The dream of Saint Nicholas Ranch 40 years ago became a reality, and since that time, the thousands of people who have visited the Ranch, participated in programs, and benefited from the serene beauty of the surroundings, have been enriched in countless ways, indelibly etching the Ranch on their hearts,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “The Ranch is home to many of our Metropolis ministries, and it has been a place of spiritual renewal for those who have come to know the beauty of this sacred space.”
An event will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at the Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Oakland, CA, with a reception beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner, entertainment and a program at 7:00 p.m. This gathering will celebrate the many accomplishments of the Ranch, especially recognizing those whose vision brought forth this wonderful ministry 40 years ago, as well as provide us with the opportunity to look to the next 40 years and beyond so that the Ranch may continue to grow and flourish for the spiritual, educational and cultural edification of our faithful.
“The inspiration that the Ranch has provided to so many people over these past 40 years is truly remarkable,” stated Theofanis Economidis, Ranch Board President. “We will forever be grateful to Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, and to Nick and Sandy Kossaras and Father John Bakas, for envisioning the benefits of a retreat center for our parishes, our youth and all our ministries. These past 40 years have exceeded everyone’s expectations, and the next 40 years present many exciting opportunities for Saint Nicholas Ranch.”
Information on sponsorships and ticket sales are available on the Metropolis website at www.sanfran.goarch.org. Sponsorship packages range from $2,500 to $25,000, and individual tickets are $75 each for adults, $45 for youth ages 18 and under. Let us come together to celebrate the rich history of the Ranch, and create an even more vibrant future for this cornerstone ministry of our Metropolis. For more information, please contact the Metropolis Office at 415-753-3075.
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