Greek Orhtodox Folk Dance & Choral Festival

Preamble

On February 10, 1979, a small group of dedicated Greek Orthodox Christians became the first signatories to the original Constitution and By-Laws of the Greek Orthodox Youth Folk Dance Festival (FDF) and its governing body. What follows is the pledge they made on that day.

"Let every original Signatory, (future Council Members, Advisory Board Appointees,) future Sponsors and Participants keep ever inviolate the teachings and principles of Orthodoxy. That the nature of this Annual Event is for the sole and exclusive purpose of bringing our youth (and young adults) together in a spirit of Christian fellowship and love.

Even though this event contains an element of competition, this aspect should never be the highlight or become the sole purpose or reason for coming together to participate. Awards should always be viewed and used as an expression of appreciation from one dancer to another in honor of the recipient's determination, dedication and accomplishment.

The ultimate achievement to be gained is the element of sharing, teaching and love. Never promote the idea or thought that one's good fortune is another's misfortune, but strive to see that all of us grow together in spirit and strength. Always seek to bring out the best of each Participant in terms of ethics, morality and character, holding high the banner of Christianity."

Mission Statement

The Greek Orthodox Folk Dance Festival Ministry is dedicated, through Orthodox Christian Fellowship and committed leadership, to promoting, encouraging and perpetuating Greek heritage and culture among individuals, families and communities expressed in folk dance, folk art, music and language.

Goals

To establish and maintain an administrative body to achieve the purposes outlined in the mission statement.

To provide leadership skills to perpetuate the Ministry through the practice of acquired leadership skills in the administration of this organization.

To bring people together in Orthodox Christian Fellowship and love, creating greater communion and stronger! ties through interaction with fellow Orthodox Christians and promoting ethical and moral standards befitting the life of an Orthodox Christian.

To promote, encourage and perpetuate Greek heritage and culture through outreach activities that inform others of the Ministry's events, opportunities and commitment to its purposes and goals.