Archangel Michael Church Grows Inclusive Ministry Through Project Sam
Building on the legacy of the Challenge Liturgy Program and the memory of Samantha Eliades, a New York parish expands faith-based outreach to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
PORT WASHINGTON — Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church in Port Washington, New York, is expanding its commitment to inclusion through a growing special needs ministry rooted in more than three decades of pastoral experience. The effort traces its origins to the Challenge Liturgy Program, established in the early 1990s by Fr. Dennis Strouzas with Manny and Marina Katsoulis, which introduced accessible worship and community life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
As reported by Project Sam via the Orthodox Observer, a defining influence in the ministry’s evolution was Samantha Eliades, whose enthusiasm and deep connection to the parish became emblematic of the program’s mission. After Samantha’s passing in September 2023, her family partnered with Fr. John Lardas and a group of parish volunteers to transform personal loss into renewed service. Their collaboration led to the creation of Like A Daisy, a nonprofit organization focused on social inclusion, advocacy, and strengthening spiritual ties for people with disabilities.
Working together, Like A Daisy and Archangel Michael Church have broadened parish programming with new initiatives designed to support both individuals with disabilities and their families. These include specialized religious education, caregiver support networks, participation in civic and parish celebrations, and inclusive events that ensure full access to parish life.
The expanded ministry operates under the umbrella of Project Sam, an initiative endorsed by the Archdiocese that encourages parishes nationwide to actively welcome individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Project Sam provides guidance and resources to help parishes establish sustainable ministries and envisions this model extending beyond the Greek Orthodox Church to other Orthodox jurisdictions, Christian communities, and faith traditions—affirming inclusion as an essential expression of faith, dignity, and love.
Previously, UOJ reported that a historic $2.9 million bequest had strengthened a Greek Orthodox foundation.
