Epiphany Dove Bearer Announced

Evelyn Bilirakis, 15, has been chosen as the Epiphany 2013 Dove Bearer. Bilirakis is following in her grandmother, also named Evelyn's path since she too was a Dove Bearer at the 1957 Epiphany celebration, according to EpiphanyCity.org.

Bilirakis will be responsible for releasing a white dove just before a slew of Greek Orthodox male youths dive into Spring Bayou in hopes of retrieving the cross on Sunday. The dove is said to represent the Holy Spirit.

According to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Bilirakis is a sophomore at Palm Harbor University and she enjoys singing, cooking and spending time with her family.

As a member of the Principal's Multicultural Advisory Committee, Bilirakis is dedicated to promoting the acceptance of other cultures and religions.

Bilirakis is the oldest daughter of Dr. Emmanuel and Maria Bilirakis.

 According to EpiphanyCity.org, Bilirakis is a "good, hard working student."