Books & Benches Literacy Garden Opens in Diavolitsi, Greece
Imagine a place where neighbors gather to read, children discover the joy of books, and conversations flourish beneath the shade of a village garden. That vision has become a reality in Diavolitsi, Greece.
The Books & Benches Literacy Garden has reached a remarkable milestone, bringing PhilotimoNOW's vision of literacy, community, and cultural connection to life. Created in partnership with Mayor Olga Bournai and acclaimed Greek landscape architect Marios Grogos, founder of Greenplus+, the Literacy Garden has transformed the grounds of the Church of St. Panteleimon into a welcoming public space where books, learning, and community come together.
Glimpses from the Books & Benches Literary Garden Blessing Ceremony at St. Panteleimon Church in Diavolitsi, Greece, celebrates a shared commitment to literacy, community, and lifelong learning.
During PhilotimoNOW's June donor visit to Greece, supporters gathered following worship at St. Panteleimon Church to celebrate the blessing of the completed Literacy Garden—a meaningful moment that reflected the spirit of collaboration, generosity, and shared purpose that made this project possible.
Father Kostas (on the right) joins PhilotimoNOW supporters and board members following the blessing of the Books & Benches Literacy Garden at the Church of St. Panteleimon in Diavolitsi, Greece, on June 21.
The completion of the Literacy Garden is far more than the installation of books and benches. It represents an investment in people, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a place where neighbors, families, and visitors can gather to read, reflect, and build community together.
This milestone belongs to everyone who helped make it possible.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every donor, volunteer, partner, and community leader who shared in this vision. Together, we have planted more than books and benches—we have created a lasting legacy of opportunity, connection, and hope that will serve the people of Diavolitsi for generations to come.
Help Us Continue the Journey
While we're celebrating this important achievement, our work is not yet complete. PhilotimoNOW continues to raise support to expand and sustain the Books & Benches Project and our Public Literacy initiatives.
To learn more or make a contribution, please visit our Public Literacy page:
https://www.philotimonow.com/public-literacy
If your village, church, or community is interested in creating its own Books & Benches Literacy Garden, we would love to explore a partnership with you.
