Meet the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer, Sylvia Marakas

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral announced Sylvia Marakas as the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer.

“It’s a great honor,” said Marakas. “I don’t know the right words to articulate for what it means to myself, to my family, to the community.”

Marakas said she’s been a member of the choir ministry for over three years.

“I’ve always been involved with music and enjoyed music,” said Marakas. “And my grandmother in the ’50s was actually a member of the choir. We have that connection.”

Marakas said that family connection and her faith mean everything to her. The cathedral describes the Pinellas County native as a devoted member of church and community.

Marakas said the church is special to her. She holds memories of attending with her family close.

“My grandfather would always sit around this area, so anytime I’m in the choir singing, I think of him,” said Marakas pointing to the front pews in the cathedral, missing her grandfather, but knowing he is proud of her today.

“I was selected for this for a purpose, and I’m so grateful for it,” said Marakas. “And I hope now that I can give back and be a positive reflection for the faith, for Tarpon Springs and for St. Nicholas.”

One way Marakas is already giving back is by serving on the St. Nicholas Cathedral Restoration Capital Campaign Cabinet and the Oversight and Audit Committee.

“I’ve seen water coming down and after during bad rains from the columns,” said Marakas, showing a part of the church that has fallen into disrepair. “We are entering a different phase, a new phase sort of this year,” said Marakas. “The church is undergoing a major multi-million dollar restoration.”

While trying to preserve the church’s past, the 2026 Epiphany Dove Bearer is also proud to be part of its future.

“That I can continue to be a representative for the Orthodox faith, as well as the Tarpon community, this community has been very important to my family,” said Marakas.