New Director Selected for St. Nicholas Ranch

August 3, 2007

 

Michael Pappas 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the selection of Michael Pappas of Modesto, California as the new Director of St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA.  Mr. Pappas comes to this position with a wealth of knowledge and experience which were major factors in his election by the Board of St. Nicholas Ranch.

Mr. Pappas received his Master of Divinity degree from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology.  He also received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from California State University Stanislaus.

Professionally, Mr. Pappas has spent considerable time serving various institutions and ministries with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.  Most notably, he was the Director of Ionian Village, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Archdiocesan District, Program Director for Ionian Village, and Associate Director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Archdiocese.  Presently, he is serving as the Pastoral Assistant at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Modesto, CA.

"I am very excited to have Mr. Pappas as the Director of this important ministry of our Metropolis," states Metropolitan Gerasimos.  "Mr. Pappas' experience in the area of youth work, his theological and pastoral expertise as well as his proven sensitivities in matters of church administration, provide a combination that will ensure a most successful ministry at St. Nicholas Ranch."

About his new position, Mr. Pappas comments, "St. Nicholas Ranch is a very special place. When I was young, the retreats and programs at the Ranch played an important role in my life, helping me to grow as an Orthodox Christian, even helping to lead me to the seminary. Being able to work in this Holy ministry of the Church is both a great honor and a privilege."

In addition to his strong administrative and marketing skills, Mr. Pappas has also developed many valuable resource tools pertaining to youth ministry including both resource books and video documentaries.

Mr. Pappas began his new duties as Director on August 6, 2007.  St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center is located outside Fresno, CA in the majestic foothills of Kings Canyon National Park, and is a ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.  The Ranch operates year-round as a destination for spiritual and corporate retreats and events, as well as educational programs for people of all ages.  For more information on scheduling your next retreat or conference at St. Nicholas Ranch, please contact Michael Pappas at 559-338-2103.