The Parish Council of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Washington, D.C. pays tribute to Alexandra Glekas who since 1928 has devoted endless energy to her church by coordinating all of the special events at which food is served. (Copied with permission from a recipe booklet, dedicated by the Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Parish Council to Mrs. Alexandra Glekas.)

Alexandra Glekas' Church and Philoptohos related activities started in 1928 when she immigrated from Greece and joined the Saint Sophia Church in Washington D.C. As the Church grew so did her volunteer work. During the Spring Festival, the Fall Picnic and the Philoptohos Christmas Bazaar, each three days long, the kitchen is under her supervision. She prepares the food with the aid of other Philoptohos members for months ahead of each event. Saint Sophia is even famous for its "Chicken a la Glekas," Alexandra's specialty. Her delicious and beautiful Easter, Christmas, and New Year breads are also a distinctive and delicious contribution.

Alexandra's philanthropic activities have not been limited to the kitchen though. She served as President of the Philoptohos Society for four years and also served for six years as the Recording Secretary. The Archbishop Iakovos presented her with the Apostle Paul Medallion in 1973.

Aalexandra was born in Sparta, Greece, in the village of Kastania. She married in 1928 and shortly afterward immigrated with her husband, John Glekas. Together they became pioneer members of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. They also owned and operated a restaurant in Shepherd Park. It was in the restaurant that Alexandra perfected her English and also the cooking which she had learned from her mother.

She has raised two children, Angelena Wright and Dr. Louis Glekas and she has six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her friends and family admire her deeply for her love and dedication to her community.

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