50 Years for Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church

Committee Members (pictured left to right): Rev. Father Nikolaos Bekris, Liz Levy, Marina Johannes, George Efstathiou, Nicolette Efstathiou, Jessica Wallner, Karen Ries, Christine Psefteas, Renée Taylor, Anna Teodosiadis, Gary Wallner. Kneeling: Ray Akkawi, and Lou Evans)

Youth Speakers (left to right): Stavroula Psefteas, Jacob Wallner, His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, Peter Psefteas, Alex Holton, and Joseph Bosl.

In 1971, polyester clothing and long natural hair were the styles for men and women. The Super Bowl was played on artificial turf for the first time and Marvin Gaye released his single “What’s Going On.” It was also the first year that Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church opened its doors to the Castro Valley community.

Now, 50 years later, the church’s community assembled for its golden milestone with a weekend full of celebrations and to look toward a new and exciting future. 

“Like the early Christians, the people of our parish have accomplished much over 50 years with three, fundamental qualities: faith, love, and humility,” said Father Nikolaos Bekris.

The festivities began on November 12 with a ‘70s-themed Youth Night, led by Youth Director Anna Teodosiadis, where more than 30 young (and young at heart) people boogied-down to the top hits of the decade, played games and broke open a disco-ball pinata. The event also included filling a time capsule with pictures, current-day memorabilia, and predictions for the next 50 years when the capsule is opened in 2071.

More than 300 people attended the Gala Celebration on November 13. The event included congratulatory messages by church dignitaries such as His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco and His Grace Bishop Ioannis of Phocaea.

“I am inspired by these young people because I see the hope for tomorrow is happening today,” His Eminence said. “Today, with the immense talent and commitment of these young people, the dreams of the parish will become reality. May God inspire you all to do the work of God in the Resurrection community.”

After a dinner prepared by Chef Michael Vitakes, parishioner Mark Fridell showed a video depicting the history of the parish and testimonials from past clergy and parishioners. 

“It’s now up to us to inspire a new generation to follow in our footsteps and be the future leaders of the parish – a future where we continue to grow and ‘be the Church,’ a parish family filled with love for one another, and a place where we all belong,” Anniversary committee chairman Gary Wallner said.

In addition to serving the Greek community, Resurrection is best known in Castro Valley as the site of the annual Greek Festival in October where it invites the community to share in its culture, music, and food. The pandemic prevented in-person revelries, so the church opted for a “take out” version the last two years in a row. Resurrection's other public outreach programs include a food pantry, Greek dances, an annual golf tournament, and hosting a Cub Scout group.