Orthodox Observer - August 2003 by Orthodox Marketplace

AUGUST 2003 • Vol. 68 • No. 1202

www.observer.goarch.org • e-mail: observer@goarch.org

PATRIARCHAL DELEGATION LED BY ARCHBISHOP DEMETRIOS Official Charter COMPLETES SUCCESSFUL VISIT TO THE VATICAN Text Published VATICAN CITY – “Glory to the Holy, consubstantial, life-giving and indivisible Trinity, to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit…” exclaimed first in Greek and immediately following in English, Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox of America as he began his address to Pope John Paul II and the thousands of faithful that had gathered on June 29 in Saint Peter’s Square celebrating the patronal feast of the Church of Rome. by Stavros Papagermanos

The Archbishop’s address was received with enthusiastic and repeated applause, as well as expressions of praise and gratitude by many diplomats and other officials present at the festivities. The 4-day visit of the Delegation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople to the Vatican, which was successfully completed on July 1, took place on the occasion of the patronal feast of the Roman Catholic Church, celebrating the feast of the Holy Apostles Sts. Peter and Paul. The visit was part of a continuing tradition of exchange visits during the patronal feasts of both Churches, a tradition that was initiated in 1967 by Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras and Pope Paul VI.

A warm welcome for Archbishop Demetrios and the Patriarchal Delegation by Pope John Paul II.

The Delegation, which was led by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America and was comprised by His Grace Bishop Theodoritos of Nazianzos, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Thyateira

The Dormition of the Theotokos

and Great Britain and the V. Rev. Grand Archimandrite Athenagoras of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, on June 28, had a private

u u page 4

A Festival of Love and Joy in Country Music Land

NASHVILLE – In the city known as the “Athens of the South,” the capital of country music, the rising new ‘motor-city,’ where new industries and medical sciences flourish, the home of Vanderbilt University and the Parthenon, the city where by Stavros Papagermanos

Icon by Athanasios Clark

u page 11 u

The official text of the Charter of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, granted by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople on Jan. 18, 2003 is published in its entirety and in both languages in this issue of the Orthodox Observer, in a special section starting on page 13 that includes an informative Q and A on the new charter. Also posted with the charter is the letter of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew upon the granting of the charter by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the letter of Archbishop Demetrios to the clergy, parish councils, and faithful of the Greek Orthodox communities. Printed copies of the charter and the letters of the Patriarch and Archbishop in booklet form are currently being prepared and will be distributed to the parishes of the Archdiocese within the month. All of these texts are also available at http://www.goarch.org/en/ archdiocese/documents/charter_ index.asp

people are polite, kind and hospitable, in this city where the vibrant Greek Orthodox Community of Holy Trinity lives and prospers, came “a magnificent festival of love and joy.”

The Clergy-Laity and Philoptochos Conferences of the Metropolis of Detroit of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America were held in Nashville, June 17-20. It was indeed a successful and exemplary regional conference organized under the pastoral care of the local hierarch Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit. The Archbishop of America, Archbishop Demetrios visited the Greek Orthodox of Nash-

u u page 2

ARC HDI O C E S E

N EWS

AUGUST 2003

National YAL Conference, an Orthodox Witness in Baltimore BALTIMORE – Hundreds of young adults from around the country gathered in downtown Baltimore July 3-7, as part of the 21st National Young Adult League Conference. The theme of this year’s Conference was “Sign of the Cross: Vision and Victory.” The conference started on Thursday, July 3 with a welcoming reception at the conference Hotel, the Renaissance Harbor-

Vision and Victory place, where D.J.s Dennis and Achilles from Detroit played music for the attendees, as a variety of hors d’oeuvres was served.

Seminars

On Friday, the conference schedule featured a series of seminars that dealt with differing aspects of Orthodox faith. Popular topics included Orthodoxy and Islam, Astrology and the Occult, and Chris-

Front Row: (left to right) Anthony Antonakas, Ernest Rafailides - Chairperson, Archbishop Demetrios, Metropolitan Evangelos, Andrea Liacouras - Co-Chairperson, Kyriakos Marudas. Second Row: (left to right), Vasili Stavrakas, Alex Levas.

tian Apologetics. Frs. Christopher Flesoras, Mark Arey, Nicholas Verdaris, Manuel Burdusi and George Liacopoulos, Iman Basar Arafat, and Orthodox lay members Diane Tseckares and James Skedros conducted the seminars. “The seminars were excellent,” stated Seena Semerly of New York, who was attending her second National

McDonald House and local senior citizen centers. YAL members later enjoyed a picnic complete with crabs, volleyball and music at the scenic Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Baltimore. Archbishop Demetrios of America and newly elected Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey –the host Metropolis of New Jersey– held Saturday Vespers at St. Demetrios. The Archbishop spoke to the conference participants, reminding them of the need to be good stewards of the Church and good stewards of the environment, citing the beautiful grounds of the church as an example. That evening, an entire section of seats were occupied by YALers who cheered the Baltimore Orioles baseball team to a decisive victory in Camden Yards. Returning to the hotel, attendees were able to engage in a late night discussion and participate in confession. On Sunday morning, at Baltimore’s Annunciation Cathedral Archbishop Demetrios concelebrated Divine Liturgy with Metropolitan Evangelos and seven priests.

Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Hold 19th Congress

Fr. Mark Leondis with Congress Chairpersons (Left to right), Ernest Rafailides, Andrea Liacouras, and Kyriakos Marudas.

SOBOR HELD The American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of USA based in Johnstown, Pa., and under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, held its 19th Sobor (congress) July 13-16 in Youngstown, Ohio. The theme of the Congress was “Serving the Lord with a diversity of Spiritual Gifts.” (Rom. 12, 6-14) Archbishop Demetrios of America delivered the keynote address at the grand banquet, and also addressed the faithful in an afternoon session July 15. The Archbishop also co-celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Metropolitan Nicholas, head of the diocese, on July 16. Metropolitan Nicholas in his homily following the proclamation of the Gospel reminded the faithful to continue their efforts for Renewal and Evangelism in their local parishes. Also participating was Fr. James Kordaris, director of the Archdiocese Department of Parish Growth, Renewal, Outreach and Evangelism who gave a presentation on the subject.

USPS 412340

ISSN 0731-2547

Published Monthly by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Editorial and Business Ofce: 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10021. TEL.: (212) 570-3555, 774-0235. FAX (212) 774-0239.

YAL Conference. Andrew Natsios, director of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) spoke at Friday’s luncheon, encouraging the young adults to become involved in service to their Church and to their fellow man. He was followed by Fr. Liacopoulos, who gave the keynote address on the conference theme. In his remarks, Fr. Liacopoulos urged his audience to transform their inner selves by the power of the Cross and then, to focus on others, in a witness of Orthodox faith. A vespers service followed. That night attendees watched a fireworks extravaganza in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor before enjoying a Greek Night at the hotel. The next day started with visits at various service projects, such as the Ronald

DIRECTOR & EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Stavros H. Papagermanos EDITOR: Jim Golding (Chryssoulis) PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING MANAGER: Costa Eliopoulos COLOR CORRECTION: Abel Montoya ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Soula Podaras

Periodicals’ postage paid at New York, NY 10001 and at additional mailing offices. The Orthodox Observer is produced entirely in-house. Past issues can be found on the Internet, at: www.observer.goarch.org • E-mail: observer@goarch.org

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Nicholas Manginas

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ORTHODOX OBSERVER, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10021

Articles do not necessarily reect the views and opinions of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America which are expressed in ofcial statements so labeled.

Subscription rates are $12 per year. Canada $25.00. Overseas Air Mail, $55.00 per year. $1.50 per copy. Subscriptions for the membership of the Greek Orthodox Church in America are paid through their contribution to the Archdiocese. Of this contribution, $5.00 is forwarded to the Orthodox Observer.

Archbishop Demetrios spoke on the Book of Revelation, interpreting part of the text and relating it to the participants. After the service, everyone enjoyed a light meal sponsored by the Annunciation Philoptochos Society. The conference concluded Sunday night with a Grand Banquet at the hotel and dancing to the sounds of Zephyros, a Baltimore Greek band. Fellowship and camaraderie were evident as attendees created friendships that will last a lifetime. “I’ve attended other conferences, which were all good, but this was the most fun,” commented James Kavalaris of West Lafayette, Ind. “Although I’ve been to several conferences, I met many new people while reacquainting myself with good friends from years ago,” stated Kyriakos Marudas, who, along with Andrea Liacouras and Ernie Rafailides, served as a co-chair of the conference. Perhaps, most importantly, the attendees left the conference reinvigorated and ready to tackle issues they are facing within their local parishes. “My wife and I left Baltimore with a desire to serve God and his Church in our local community,” stated George Georgountzos of Boston. “There was so much positive energy at the conference that it helped me refocus on the wonderful gift of Orthodoxy,” summed up Maria Crassas of Silver Spring, Md.

ARC HDI O C E S E

AUGUST 2003

N EWS

PATRIARCHAL DELEGATION LED BY ARCHBISHOP DEMETRIOS VISITS VATICAN u page 1 audience with Pope John Paul II who also hosted th em to a private lunch. On the eve of the feast, the Delegation attended the Great Vespers service in the magnificent Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican and in the afternoon of June 29, the day of the feast, officially attended the celebrations held in Saint Peter’s Square. In all occasions, Pope John Paul II in his homilies and speeches spoke of the Delegation and specifically of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Demetrios of America. His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America in his addresses to the Pope, called for the continuation of the common efforts for overcoming the differences, which separate and divide the two Churches and for intensified work for rapprochement, reconciliation and unity. The Archbishop also spoke of the important work for peace, international reconciliation and environmental protection that have been offered during the last 10 years by both Ecumenical Patriarch Bar-

THE MEMBERS of the Patriarchal Delegation and their hosts. (L to R) Fr. Eleftherios Fancesco Fortino of the Vatican, Bishop Msgr. Brian Farell, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Bishop Theodoritos of Nazianzos, Walter Cardinal Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Archbishop Demetrios, Great Archimandrite Athenagoras and deacon Panteleimon.

tholomew as well as Pope John Paul II. He added that this common work would serve to motivate not only the continuation but also the expansion of efforts aiming at universally bringing Churches and religions

closer together. The official newspaper of the Vatican, “Observatore Romano”, extensively covered the festivities of the threeday celebration including the visit of the Patriarchal Delegation and published the entire address of Archbishop Demetrios and the various speeches of the Pope along with many photos, emphasizing the importance of the visit of the Patriarchal Delegation. On Sunday, June 29, His Eminence and the members of the delegation attended the Divine Liturgy at the Greek Orthodox Church of Apostle Andrew, the First Called. The Archbishop conveyed to the faithful in attendance the patriarchal blessings of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and, citing the example of the Apostles Peter and Paul, who dedicated their lives to God, he called upon everyone to ponder whether they share the same mentality of the Apostles. Within the framework of the visit, the Delegation was given a tour of the Basilica of Saint Peter, the catacombs and the archaeological sites which are under the Basilica, the Patriarchal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Church of Saint Theodoros which dates back to the 8th Century A.D., was recently bequeathed by the Roman Catholic Church to the Greek Orthodox community of Rome and is currently undergoing restoration.

The imposing Saint Peter Cathedral and the Vatican.

ORTHODOX OBSERVER

Walter Cardinal Kasper leads the Patriarchal Delegation through the Great St. Peter’s Cathedral.

NEW ARCHDIOCESE CHARTER ST. BASIL ACADEMY GRADUATION

Archdiocese News Archpastoral Reflections Challenge Classifieds Greek Section Holy Scripture Readings HC/HC Report In the Calendar IOCC

u2-7 u10 u 29 u28 u21-24 u12 u12 u9 u26

u 13-20 u 32

Letters Metropolises’ News Missions Opinions Orthodoxy Worldwide Parish Profile People Scholarships Voice of Philoptochos

u10 u30-31 u8 u10 u9 u25 u25 u7 u27

Archbishop Demetrios venerates the tomb that is believed to be holding the relics of St. John Chrysostom.

AUGUST 2003

Detroit Metropolis Reinvigorated After Clergy-Laity Conference u page 1 ville for the first time in more than 60 years and the people were pleased and exited at the same time.

The Conference

The Conference began on June 17 with meetings of the Clergy Syndesmos and Metropolis Council, and a gathering for the clergy families. The morning of June 18 Metropolitan Nicholas who presided over all the proceedings offered words of inspiration and guidance in his keynote address. The theme of the conference was the mandate in the second epistle of Peter “But Grow in the Grace and Knowledge of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18). The day included committee meetings, discussions, lectures and workshops, the opening session of the Philoptochos conference, a vespers service at Holy Trinity church and a picnic. The second official day of the conference featured numerous seminars and committee meetings in preparation of the plenary session.

The Archbishop

His Eminence arrived in Nashville June 19, as the conference was well under way. The organizers had planned a reception for all the delegates and observers to THE PARISHIONERS of Holy Trinity Church were meet the Archbishop at a most appropriate overjoyed by the Archbishop’s visit, the first in venue, the Nashville Parthenon. Built in more than 60 years. 1897, it is an impressive full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens that ment at the size and the height of the Parstands in the middle of Nashville’s Centen- thenon and the magnificent imposing statue nial Park, it was recently renovated and of Athena that in antiquity was made from gold and ivory. also serves as the His Eminence city’s art museum. said the celebraParthenon DiGus Stavropoulos tions were “in the rector and Curator Metropolis Council vice-chair, real spirit of AnWesley Paine led a “I think the Clergy-Laity Concient Greek menprivate tour of the gress we are just concluding had an tality—the spirit of Parthenon and the incredible outcome. We came here harmony, of honmuseum gallerunited to serve the Church. Our oring the deities ies for Archbishop Metropolitan is leading us to a great (before the time of Demetrios and Metfuture and we have the unwavering Christ), the reverropolitan Nicholas. support of the Archdiocese, our ence for the Godly A program that Archbishop and the entire body of and Holy, the joy of included traditional our local council. We can only thank life, initiative and Greek dances was God for His blessings.” creativity and alpresented. ways in conjunction The Archbishop with preserving and expressed his amazehelping nature and competing with nature in artistic production. This spirit of Greek antiquity,” he added, “belongs to all humanity.” Archbishop Demetrios expanded his comments saying: “Our Greek-Orthodox heritage is not our exclusive individual property but something given by God that we have to share with everybody. I am very grateful to my brother Metropolitan Nicholas for allowing this experience with his invitation to be present in this Clergy-Laity.”

Banquet

A grand banquet was held that evening at the hotel ballroom. Demetria Kalodimos, a Greek-American celebrity anchorwoman with the lo-

Thomas D. Demery

Chairman of the Finance Committee “All of our expectations were met to the fullest. We had a very comfortable and cordial series of meetings; everyone has done their job as they were supposed to. We are really very fortunate and thankful to God for this, we now can move forward and attain some more objectives. Our immediate goal is to cultivate the ‘Friends of the Metropolis’ program so we can be financially capable to meet our obligations and further our ministries.”

Metropolis Council Vice-chair Gus Stavropoulos addresses the Plenary Session

cal NBC affiliate served as the master of Syndesmos President; Katherine Kotsis, ceremonies. Metropolis Philoptochos president; Joan The mayor of Nashville, Bill Purcell, Felts, Holy Trinity Philoptochos president; welcomed the Archbishop and the par- and Georgia Skeadas, National Philoptoticipants to the “Athens of the South” chos president. and expressed his Gus Stavrogratitude to the lopoulos, Metropolis Fr. George Vaporis cal community and Council vice-chair Holy Trinity priest to Metropolitan noted the hospi“The Clergy-Laity Congress Nicholas. He also tality of the host and Philoptochos conference here expressed the hope parish: “Let us not in Nashville was very important and extended an forget that the Nashfor everyone because it brought open invitation for ville church and its our diocese together and made the National Clergypeople were exour Orthodox people of Nashville Laity Congress to be tremely hospitable feel that they are also part of this held in Nashville. to this Congress,” Metropolis and the Archdiocese. It Also preshe said. was wonderful seeing Archbishop ent was state Sen. Fr. George Demetrios, since this was the first Douglas Henry who Vaporis Holy Trinvisit of an Archbishop in sixty-some welcomed everyity Church parish years when Archbishop Athenagoras one speaking surpriest, said that came. All the visitors were very much prisingly in Greek “what truly unites impressed by our community and and presented a is love” and graour city and we were just as thrilled proclamation by ciously introduced to have everyone here.” the Tennessee state their beloved hierSenate. arch, Metropolitan Conference Nicholas. Chairman George Metropolitan J. Anderson, who is also the parish coun- Nicholas of Detroit expressed his gratitude cil president of Nashville’s Holy Trinity, to the faithful of Nashville for accepting noted the importance of the Archbishop’s and completing the challenge and spevisit, “the first visit of an Archbishop to cifically the organizing committee and Nashville in sixty-eight years,” he said. its co-chairs George and Lee Ann AnderGreetings were also offered by Fr. son. He also said that he was grateful to Nicholas Pathenos, Metropolis’ Clergy

uuu

AUGUST 2003

METROPOLITAN NICHOLAS On the Progress and Success of the Clergy-Laity Conference

ARCHBISHOP Demetrios and Metropolitan Nicholas with Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell and cochairs of the conference Mr. and Mrs. George Anderson.

uuu Archbishop Demetrios for his guidance and love and asked everyone to stand in tribute to their Archbishop, as he offered to him a gift on behalf of the people of the Metropolis; an ornate pastoral staff. In turn, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America praised the Metropolitan for “his dedication to his flock, the Archdiocese and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.” His Eminence commended “the vitality of Nashville’s Greek Orthodox Community” and called the Clergy-Laity proceedings “a magnificent festival of love and joy,” and spoke of the concept of “oneness and of being together” as it is presented in the scriptures and as a factor for progress in all aspects of human existence.

The Plenary

The morning of the last conference day started with a doxology and artoklasia service.

In the plenary session attended by the Metropolitan and the Archbishop, the committees presented their reports for discussion and approval. Thomas Demery, chairman and Gust Feles, council treasurer presented the finance committee report and made special references to the ‘Friends of the Metropolis’ giving program. Giving is contagious they said and distributed pledge forms around the room. Jerry Dimitriou, Archdiocese executive director of administration complimented the Metropolis for “the considerable improvements in all aspects of the Metropolis operations and its financial condition…you came a long way from not having any financial records to having audited financial statements,” he said. He also made a thorough presentation of the Archdiocese programs and services and the improvements in communication between the Archdiocese, the Metropolises and the parishes that were recently put into effect. All committees presented their reports and were approved unanimously. Later in the day Archbishop Demetrios along with Metropolitan Nicholas visited the host parish of Holy Trinity and spent some time of fellowship with the faithful. Archiepiscopal blessing for Fr. Vaporis’ 3-year old grandson Nicholas and his mother Katherine.

Vanderbilt University Hosts Archbishop NASHVILLE – The Divinity School of the renowned Vanderbilt University on the occasion of the Archbishop’s visit to Nashville invited His Eminence to visit the institution and the faculty organized a reception in his honor, June 19. Dr. Nicholas S. Zeppos, Vanderbilt’s provost, vice-chancellor, professor of Law and a Greek-Orthodox Christian, welcomed Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Nicholas in his office for a meeting. In the reception that ensued the dean of the Divinity School, James HudnutBeumler, introduced the Archbishop, and Provost Zeppos spoke of His Eminence’s long tenure in the academic field and in pastoral service. Archbishop Demetrios responding to the request of his hosts offered a few thoughts to the select audience, which consisted mainly of divinity faculty and students. He spoke about the Symposium of Religion, Science and Environment on the Baltic Sea from which he had returned the

previous week. His Eminence said that the Symposium, organized on the initiative of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, was a high level forum of communication and exchange of ideas on the environment indicative of the influence of the Church on all issues of human existence. “This shows the character of the Orthodox Church and the character of the leader of the Orthodox Church, our Ecumenical Patriarch,” said the Archbishop. His Eminence also spoke on the main idea of the symposium’s keynote address by Metropolitan John of Pergamos: “Human beings are not merely the managers of the natural world, they are not even simply stewards… and as it is drawn from the patristic literature… human beings are the priests of nature. They offer their life in nature as a liturgy. Taking care of nature is a liturgical act and not simply a management task,” he said. “We have to offer unconditionally. We are the priests each one for every one and we liturgize each other.”

Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit Clergy-Laity in Buffalo. Participation is spoke to the Orthodox Observer about up by some 25 percent this year. the Clergy-Laity, the plans and the chalO.O. – What were some of the opporlenges of the Metropolis and the programs tunities afforded by such a gathering in the he has initiated. advancement of ministry and service? O.O. – Your Eminence, on the conMetropolitan Nicholas – For our clusion of this conference priests it gives the opportell us how was Nashville tunity to gather together picked? in fellowship, which is Metropolitan Nicholas very important, and ulti– It has been the hope and mately as Clergy and Laity the joy of the Metropolis to identify certain aspects of Detroit to continue of ministry we want to our efforts to expand our focus on for the next two reach to all our faithful years. Some of them have and although most of the already begun. An example people of the Metropolis is our Philoptochos women are in the Michigan and and the preparation of the New York State areas, we National Medical Lunfelt it appropriate to come cheon. We have also seen to Nashville, which is the Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit. it with the Clergy and Lasouthern aspect of our ity conference supporting Metropolis’ borders and here amidst the unanimously a special fundraiser for the wonderful hospitality of a small southern Metropolis of Buenos Aires; it comes parish to invite our entire Metropolis to through in the field of Religious Educabe present. tion where four workshops are planned O.O. – Please speak of your hopes and next year throughout the area of our Meexpectations coming in this Clergy-Laity tropolis. Another aspect is our resolve to conference. communicate and cultivate in all of our Metropolitan Nicholas – Our hopes parishes the understanding for the need and expectations really are centered to support our Archdiocese. Very often, around helping the people understand you know, we find there is a lack of underthe fact that as large as we are, we are standing and awareness of the aspects and one body; that has been our strongest services provided by the Archdiocese. sense of concern these last few years and Here there was an opportunity for that is one of the reasons we came down identifying issues that need unity and this far in terms of hosting the conference. progress, for expressing concerns –and The Metropolis of Detroit is made-up of we did that with Religious Education and parts or wholes of seven states and that is we did it with Youth and we now have a large expanse. We were hoping really to planted the seeds for the Metropolis Youth see some new faces, which we saw, hav- Committee to help with the work of the ing an increased turnout from our last Youth office.

Welcomes sailors

AUGUST 2003

Orthodox Observer

CHILDREN CAN LEARN TO SPEAK GREEK THE EASY WAY

Archbishop Demetrios recently welcomed three sailors home on leave after their return from the Iraq conflict. As a memento of their visit, he presented a copy of the Orthodox Study Bible to (r. to l.) Petty Officers 3rd Class Jerry Mytides, John Pylarinos and John Nikolis. Mytides and Pylarinos are stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman, and Nikolis is on the guided missile destroyer USS Donald Cook. All are based at the U.S. naval base in Norfolk, Va. Mytides is the son of Kyriakos Mytides, an employee of the Archdiocese. All are from Flushing, N.Y.

Museum Seeks Names of Orthodox Christian POWs Beginners’ Elementary Elementary Elementary Greek Conversational Conversational Conversational Conversation Greek, Book 1 Greek, Book 2 Greek, Book 3 If your child does not attend Greek school we have the right books for him to learn Greek at home. Along with your child you can also learn Greek or you can brush on your Greek. We have a new series of conversational books. All books are accompanied by Workbooks and cassette tapes or CDs. Readers books $7.50 ea • Workbooks $5.00 ea Cassette tapes for each book $19.00, CDs $23.00

For information or to order, call: 301-593-0652, Fax: 301-681-3390 email: info@greek123.com or look us up on our web site: www.greek123.com

For a free catalog write: PAPALOIZOS PUBLICATIONS 11720 Auth Lane, Silver Spring, Md., 20902

SERVING GREEK EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES FOR 45 YEARS layout5.qxd

7/18/2003

4:21 PM

Page 1

��

� � � � � � ��

CHICAGO – The Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center is actively seeking the names of all Orthodox Christian prisoners who were interned, or perished, at the Dachau Nazi Concentration Camp during the Second World War. The list will be an integral part of the Museum’s 2004 spring exhibition on the subject of the Orthodox Christian Easter service that was held at the camp shortly after its liberation on April 29, 1945. As described by survivor Gleb Alexandrovitch Rahr – Prisoner R (Russian) 64923, “In the entire history of the Orthodox Church there has probably never been an Easter service like the one at Dachau in 1945.” Eighteen Orthodox Christian priests,

one deacon, and a young Greek monk from Mount Athos performed the liturgy while donned in vestments sewn from army hospital linen towels adorned with the red crosses from the uniforms of SS medical personnel. This Pan-Orthodox Christian exhibit will include memorabilia and personal commentaries by Dachau prisoners and liberators. It is critical that these moments in history be memorialized and documented for future generations to come. Anyone willing to submit names, loan artifacts, or an oral history is encouraged to contact the Hellenic Museum at HellenicMu@aol.com or call (312) 7261234.

New Resource for Youth Workers: JOY Curriculum for Grades 3-6 The Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries announces a new resource for youth workers, The JOY Curriculum. It was created to assist advisors working with children from grades 3-6. The author, Presbytera Georgia Chamberas, has more than 25 years of successful ministry to children through JOY. The curriculum includes 10 sessions for the ecclesiastical year. The sessions build on each topic by including ageappropriate discussion questions and answers, prayers, illustrations, scriptural references, activities, art projects and a detailed “word bank,” which will help young children to become familiar with Orthodox terminology. Additionally, each session has a one-page “Family Notes” handout photocopy to send home with each child. This handout summarizes each lesson and suggests activities and further resources for the family to build on the

topic in their home. Presbytera Chamberas has also included practical tips for maintaining a JOY ministry. She has cited some helpful resources for advisors to have such as books, tapes, web sites and additional information. “This curriculum will be of great help to JOY advisors in their ministry and will enable the local parish priest and advisor to hold a complete year of JOY Ministry in one inclusive edition,” stated Fr. Mark Leondis, national director of the Department of Youth and Young Ministries. Responding to the decisions of the 2002 Clergy-Laity Assembly, the Department has already begun working on a GOYA, HOPE and Early Childhood Curriculum. The JOY Curriculum can be ordered on the Department Web site at: http: //www.youth.goarch.org (print the order form in the “For Youth Workers” section) or by calling, 646-519-6180.

RECEIVE NEWS FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE AS IT HAPPENS!

Subscribe to receive News by e-mail at:

www.goarch.org/listserv

AUGUST 2003

SCHOLARSHIPS Cyprus Children’s Fund Awards $25,000 in Scholarships NEW YORK – The Cyprus Children’s Fund and its National Chairman and President Peter J. Pappas along with Alexandra Lappas, chairwoman of the Makarios Scholarship/Theodore and Wally Lappas Awards, and members of the scholarship committees, recently awarded $25,000 in scholarships for 2003. The major award of the Cyprus Children’s Fund is the Makarios Scholarship/ Theodore & Wally Lappas Award which was created in 1983 by the great benefactors of the Cypriot children, the late Theodore and Wally Lappas. A combined total of $750,000 is currently invested with Prudential Securities.

Makarios Scholarship/Theodore & Wally Lappas Awards

The following six students each will receive $2,000: Polina Chiromeridou, Columbia College, New York, graduate studies in statistics. Androula Christoforou, Roosevelt University, Chicago, graduate studies in clinical psychology. Angelo Constantinou, John Jay College of City University of New York, graduate studies in criminal justice. Alexandra Ieridou, Teachers College of Columbia University, New York, graduate studies in curriculum and teaching. Charalambos Lestas, San Diego State University, graduate studies in civil engineering. Sylvia Papachristoforou, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Va., undergraduate studies in business administration (accounting and information technology).

Makarios Scholarship/Peter G. & Bess Kolantis Decker

The Peter G. and Bess Kolantis Decker Award for $2,000 is awarded to Andri

Fadil of Hunter College, CUNY, pursuing a graduate degree in music.

Cyprus Children’s Fund Scholarship Endowment

Mr. Pappas announced that five scholarship awards for $2,000 each will be awarded to the following: Andriana Qelemati of Clemson University, South Carolina – undergraduate studies in biochemistry. Daphne Smyrniotis of New York University, undergraduate studies at the Gallatin School of Individual Study. Rena Stavroulakes, The New School, New York, undergraduate studies in liberal arts. Spyridon Melitsopoulos, La Guardia Community College, undergraduate studies in business administration. Luena Papa, Hunter College-CUNY, doctoral studies in biological sciences.

Special Award in memory of Louras and Solomos family members

Maria Elena Psilis, University of Michigan at Dearborn, is awarded a $1,000 scholarship in memory of Katherine Louras and the Solomos family members. Miss Psilis is stydying law. The 2004 scholarship applications will be available to students of Greek and Greek Cypriot origin who are citizens of the United States, Greece and Cyprus and can be obtained from the Cyprus Children’s Fund. Eligible students must be currently enrolled or will be enrolled in September 2004 full-time in an accredited institution or college in the United States. Deadline for application submission is April 30, 2004 for all awards. Requests should be addressed to: Cyprus Children’s Fund; 13 E. 40th St.; New York, NY 10016; tel.: 212 696-4590.

Archbishop Receives Bishop Mercurius of Moscow Patriarchate

NEW YORK – Archbishop Demetrios of America received Bishop Mercurius of Zaraisk, administrator of the Russian Orthodox Church Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, July 8. Bishop Mercurius related to Archbishop Demetrios the progress on the reconstruction of the Russian Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Nicholas in New York and the celebrations to take place in November 2003 that will mark the 100th anniversary of the cathedral.

Prospects for cooperation and coordination between the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in America (SCOBA) with the Moscow Patriarchate Representation in the US were also discussed. Participating in the meeting were Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos, SCOBA general secretary, and Rev. Alexander Abramov, Moscow Patriarchate Representation in the US.

WITH ARCHBISHOP DEMETRIOS, (l. to r.) Bishop Demetrios of Xanthos, SCOBA general secretary; Bishop Mercurius and Fr. Alexander Abramov, Moscow Patriarchate Representation in the USA.

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS

Offered to Communities, Organizations, Church festivals and all other functions. Kontos Foods famous for its POCKET-LESS PITA, is proud to present its original products once again.

Fillo Kataifi Delicious, traditional products made

Spanakopita Tyropita with the highest quality ingredients

Courteous Service • WE SHIP EVERYWHERE in the US & CANADA KONTOS FOODS, INC • EVRIPIDES KONTOS, President

BOX 628, PATERSON, NJ 07544 (973) 278-2800 • Fax: (973) 278-7943

MIS SIONS

AUGUST 2003

New Endowment Fund Sends Seminarian on Mission Team ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – A St. Vladimir’s graduate, Catherine Wason, has become the first seminarian to be awarded a place on the OCMC mission team through the recently established Louis and Helen Nicozisis Mission Team Endowment Fund. This endowment, part of the Mission Center’s comprehensive Capital Campaign, will send a seminary student from one of the Orthodox theological schools in North America on an OCMC mission team each year. The Nicozisises, of Annunciation Church in Lancaster, Pa., and St. Mark in Boca Raton, Fla., will also provide through their gift an annual scholarship to enable a qualified seminarian to participate on a short-term basis in the mission field. “We are excited to be able to assist the Mission Center in raising up missionminded seminarians, who, as future leaders of our Church, must not only learn the importance of missions, but practically experience the Great Commission of Christ to ‘go and make disciples of all nations’ themselves,” said Mr. Nicozisis, who is also a member of the Archdiocesan Council. These seminarians will have the opportunity through the Orthodox Christian Mission Center to build churches, schools and clinics, teach catechism in remote regions of the world, join in evangelism teams or serve in third world orphanages. They will have the chance to share the knowledge they receive at our Seminaries around the world while widening their horizons, strengthening their leadership skills, and spreading the Gospel of Christ

to all His people. Ms. Wason is a member of St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church in Atlanta, and has just graduated with a masters in general theology. An experienced physical therapist, Ms. Wason had a call to missions a number of years ago as she was seeking her entrance into the Orthodox faith. She sees this opportunity to participate on an OCMC Mission Team as an important and exciting step into possible long-term missionary service. Ms. Wason will leave this August to participate on an OCMC Mission Team to Romania, which will assist missionaries, Craig and Victoria Goodwin, at the newly established Protection of the Theotokos Family Center. The center’s purpose is to prevent child abandonment and to nurture the bond between mother and child (infants 0-24 months) discouraging abortion and abandonment while increasing strong family ties for infants. This scholarship is one of many that the Mission Center looks to fund through its Capital Campaign, with the intention of providing more opportunities for seminarians to participate on mission teams. “We hope that the establishment of this scholarship will serve to inspire other Orthodox Christians to consider funding other mission team endowment funds, so that we may be able to send even more seminarians out in the field every year,” said Mrs. Nicozisis, OCMC board president.

SAMP Program Reaches Orphanage in Mexico ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. -- Orthodox Christian Mission Center’s SAMP (Support A Mission Priest) program recently began assisting Fr. Pedro Medina in his ministry to St. Innocent Orphanage and the surrounding community in Tijuana, Mexico. “An answer to prayer,” is how Margaret Yova of St. Innocent Orphanage describes Fr. Pedro. “He is great with the boys...he listens and guides them.” For years the boys at St. Innocent Orphanage only had a priest come once in a while. Fr. Pedro, has been assigned to the orphanage by Metropolitan Chedraoui and is making a difference in the lives of many. The OCMC, through its SAMP program, now assists 240 Orthodox priests in 15 countries, In situations where communities cannot support a priest, SAMP offers a monthly financial contribution so the priest can immerse himself fully in the ministry. St. Innocent Orphanage focuses on orphaned and abused teenage boys in Tijuana -- a city of more than 2 million people. According to DIF (the Mexican Department of Family Development), “Approximately 50,000 minors enter Tijuana each year. The lack of guidance, or absence of family in these children’s lives, leads them into robbery, gangs, vandalism, use of toxic substances, alcoholism.” Many of these boys grow up in a vicious circle of poverty, which leads to crime. Some are lucky and escape this circle because they enter into the gates of the St. Innocent Orthodox Orphanage and are given a second chance. While at St. Innocent the boys go to school, learn a vocation and are surrounded by people who care for and love them. Now they are also benefiting from the spiritual direction and guidance being offered to them from Fr. Pedro.

As a young man attending graduate studies at the University of Valle de Atemajac, in Guadalajara, Jose Pedro Medina met Archimandrite Makarios, an Orthodox monk who was serving in a community. Jose remembered having seen the Ecumenical Patriarch on television some time ago, and he began to intently research the Orthodox Church. Having found the purest tradition, he had no doubts as he embraced the Orthodox Church. Archimandrite Makarios guided his study of Orthodoxy, and in December 1996 Jose joined the Orthodox monastic community of the Nativity of the Lord. Two years later he was ordained to the diaconate and in another two years he was ordained to the priesthood at the parish of St. George in Mexico City, by Metropolitan Antonio Chedraoui, Archbishop of Mexico, Central America, and the Islands of the Caribbean. There is a great interest in the Orthodox Church in Northern Mexico and Fr. Pedro works with adult catechumens from the Tijuana and Rosarito area along with his work at the orphanage. Since his arrival he has chrismated several adults and baptized many children. He has been guiding the liturgical and spiritual life of the orphanage, including guiding the boys and working with the staff to help them attend to the boys’ spiritual life. Fr. Pedro is also helping to develop the Independent Living Skills program for the older boys. The Orthodox Christian Mission Center, St. Innocent Orphanage and Project Mexico are all inter-Orthodox ministries that function with the blessing of SCOBA (Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas).

AUGUST 2003

��

Two New Villages of Ghana Receive Orthodoxy GHANA – After many months of hard work and many hours of catechism, the villagers of Brakwa and Akim of Ghana, received Orthodoxy as their true Christian faith. On July 10, Bishop Panteleimon of Ghana, accompanied by Evangelia Nyktari, representative of the Metropolis of Rethymno and Avlopotamou of Creta, and the six members of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Building Team from the United States, began their trip to Brakwa. They first arrived at the town of Brakwathey after a four-hour trip. Fr. Samuel Akumah, the priest in charge of both villages, was waiting at a nearby school. As soon as the people saw the Diocese’s car, they enthusiastically began to cry out: “AKWABA,” which in Twi means Welcome! People were waving their handkerchiefs, left and right, as a sign of welcome. It was the first time their bishop was visiting their town. Many were wearing white shirts with the Patriarchate of Alexandria’s symbol and it was very easy to distinguish them from the others, that they were the catechumen for baptism. Fr. Samuel Akumah instructed the people to get in line. In front they had the flag of the Alexandrian Church, the symbol of St. Mark, the Apostle and Evangelist, and behind the line they raised their country’s flag. They all began to sing and slowly, slowly to approach the river site. Their enthusiasm was transmitted to the rest of the villagers. The people, entirely strangers to us, just came near the car to welcome us. As the group arrived at the site, Bishop Panteleimon went to see the river. He then returned and separated those who would be baptized. The yard of a house with the large tree in its midst was a perfect place. Before the beginning of the service Bishop Panteleimon asked the catechumen the following questions: “Do you believe in one and only God?” They an-

AUGUST

swered: “Yes, we do!” A second question followed: “Do you believe in God the Father, Pantocrator?” They responded: Yes, we do!” A third question followed: “Do you believe in the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, and the Savior of the world?” They replied: “Yes, we do!” A fourth question was placed: “Do you believe in the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church; and that this Church, which our Lord established is the Orthodox Church”? “Yes, we do!” they replied with one loud voice. Thus, the service began. The service lasted four hours in very hot weather. The holy catechism took place under the large tree, whereas, the main service of baptism was performed next to the river. The bishop anointed the catechumen one by one with the “oil of gladness.” Fr. Samuel baptized them, as the bishop called upon the name of the Holy Trinity and giving them their new Christian names. Godparents were the six members of the OCMC Building Team and Miss Nyktari. Everything was performed with patience. There was no rush. After everyone was baptized, we returned back to the yard. The Holy Sacrament of Chrismation followed, the cutting of the hair, the offering of the Holy Cross and the lit candle. With the bishop sensing, Fr. Samuel holding the Holy Gospel, the godparents and the newly illuminated holding their candles, they sang all together: “As many of you who were baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ. Alleluia!” They all went around the large tree three times. Finally, His Grace addressed the newly illuminated faithful saying: “You must live from now on as Orthodox Christians with true faith, which must be expressed through good deeds, a life of good example and holiness, worthy of bearing the name of disciples of Christ, and not just being ‘by name’ Orthodox.”

��

MARKOS

In the Calendar SEPTEMBER

6.............. Transfiguration of our Lord 7-10...Tri-Level Institute of Theological Education (HCHC – Brookline, MA) 15........... Dormition of the Theotokos 29...Commemoration of Beheading of John the Baptist

1.. Beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year (Indiction) 8.................Nativity of the Theotokos 14...........Exaltation of the Holy Cross 24... Holy Eparchial Synod – Fall Meeting 26-27.........Archdiocesan Council – Fall Meeting

Greek Celebration Cruise 2004

LIVE

GREEK

MUSIC

Nightly!

��

ALL WELCOME! Book early for best cabins! For Details, Call Global Cruises

1-800-882-6202

��

DAILY DEPARTURES

with

• NON-STOP FLIGHTS ON JUMBO JET • EASY CONNECTIONS from anywhere in the U.S.A. at UNBELIEVABLE LOW RATES!

289*

One Way

*A Limited Number of Seats

OTHER FLIGHTS

áðü

458*

Round trip

$1099

per person/ double occupancy /cruise only Port Charges Included

Call Markos Travel Now! NATIONWIDE TOLL FREE

800-243-7728

CONNECTICUT RESIDENTS

800-842-8260

644 SILAS DEAN HWY. WETHERSFIELD, CT 06109

RATES START AT P R I N C E S S

travel service

Owner: Markos Hatzikonstantis

...BOOK NOW AND SAVE!

AUGUST 2003

E DITORIAL

The New Charter

The long-awaited new Charter of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is finally in place and should provide the Church with a strong “constitution” for many years to come. The document represents more than five years of continuous efforts by laity and clergy of the Archdiocese as well as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and other hierarchs and theologians. The Charter represents the dedicated efforts of the Joint Archdiocesan/ Patriarchal Committee working with the Holy Synod of the Archdiocese, the Clergy-Laity Congress, Archdiocesan Council, with input from parishes and individual faithful. The Charter is an ecclesiastical document, not a political constitution, and was prepared in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, Sacred Tradition and Canons of the Church. It spells out the Archdiocese’s mission and function, defines the relationship between the Archdiocese and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Contrary to what some critics have claimed, the Charter does not diminish the unity of the Archdiocese as a result of the elevation of the Dioceses to Metropolises. The Archbishop is still the administrative and pastoral head of the Archdiocese, the Exarch of the Patriarchate and president of the Eparchial Synod. The document clearly states the Archdiocese is “one indivisible entity.” Furthermore, the Metropolitans are heads of Metropolises of the Archdiocese and are no longer Metropolitans of the Ecumenical Throne. The laity’s role is enhanced, not diminished by the Charter. It provides for the direct involvement of the Clergy-Laity Congress, the Archdiocesan and Metropolitan councils in the administration of the Archdiocese and metropolises. The Charter also provides for an advisory role for the Archdiocesan Council in selecting the hierarchs of the Church in America and in matters relating to revision of regulations of the Archdiocese, the process includes

u Servant of God t Editor, Recently, I and other readers of the Observer read the article “Holy Week and Easter in South America,” by Fr. George E. Kalpaxis, which appeared in May 2003. What an interesting and informative article it was. As many and I know through his letters and articles: Fr. Kalpaxis, is a thoughtful and persuasive writer on subjects dealing with the church and member responsibility to the church. However, there is much more to this priest, than just writing. Although, Fr. Kalpaxis, resides in Baltimore-he has traveled widely in pursuit of this spiritual odyssey. He has become a reservoir of knowledge related to the church and its history, past and present. This gentle and scholarly priest has now reached his 60th year in service to the Greek Orthodox Church. What a magnificent milestone in the life of this servant of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

review and comment from the laity. The distribution of the Charter comes after the preparation of the English text following the granting of the original Greek text of the Charter by the Synod of the Patriarchate. Printed copies of the Charter and the letters of the Patriarch and Archbishop are currently being prepared and will be distributed to the parishes within the month of August. In his letter Archbishop Demetrios states, “This Charter of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is the product of intensive work over several years by the representatives of the Joint Archdiocesan/Patriarchal Committee, our Holy Eparchial Synod, our Archdiocesan Council, our Clergy-Laity Congresses, and the clergy and lay leadership and membership of the parishes of the Church in America. All have had the opportunity to contribute to a process that has affirmed the level of maturity of our Archdiocese, as our discussions and deliberations have been characterized by respect, honesty, moderated concern, Christian dignity, and deep commitment to the Church and Her mission and function.” In addition he states that the Charter “affirms first and foremost the unity of our ‘one and indivisible Archdiocese,’ a unity that has been and will continue to be crucial to mission and ministry at all levels,” and that the various articles of the Charter clearly affirm “the cooperation between clergy and laity and their harmonious function within the Church. “United in our vision, and in our programs and activities, we will meet the needs of our contemporary world in ways that will bring healing, transformation, salvation, and life.” The new Charter also will help to “build the spiritual and ethical life of the faithful in accordance with Holy Scripture, Sacred Tradition and the Canons” and promote the productive and harmonious cooperation between the clergy and laity to bring honor and glory to God through the work of the faithful of the Church in America.

In closing, Fr. George E. Kalpaxis of Baltimore, Maryland, continues after 60 years of service; to preach the word of our Lord in places such as South America, Hong Kong, Australia and numerous cities in America and wherever he is needed. For those of us who know him and know of his contributions to the church-we remain in his debt. May the Grace and Love of God be with him always! John A. Miklos Baltimore

u One True Faith t Editor, In the May Orthodox Observer, you printed a letter by Kostas Tsoukalis which claimed that there is only one God but He is worshipped in different ways. “That is why we have many different religions and denominations,” the writer explained. This claim represents a serious misunderstanding of Orthodox Christianity.

Archpastoral Reflections by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America Our American society is comprised of persons from an exceedingly wide array of cultures, races, religions, and ethnicities—persons with whom we live side by side as neighbors. This reality, a social phenomenon known as pluralism, is perhaps one of the most distinguishing and valuable characteristics of our nation. Pluralism is more than just a social phenomenon, however; it is an entity that entirely surrounds us. As such, pluralism presents us with particular challenges, in the most positive sense of the term. These challenges come from the understanding that our Orthodox Christian voice is but one of many voices within an ever diverse and complex American society. In the face of this reality, we are challenged as Greek Orthodox Christians living in the United States of America to consider courageously the question, “Where is the strength of our Orthodox Christian voice when it is but one of many voices in a diverse society?” In considering this question, we bring to mind the manifold diversity of Roman society during the days of the Apostles, who surely asked themselves the very same question. Their voice, like that of our own, was the voice of a minority; yet its strength revealed itself in universal and unequivocal terms. The Book of Acts gives us a sampling of the tremendous diversity of people who were present and who each heard the message of the Gospel in their own languages at the miracle of Pentecost: Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappodocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians…(Acts 2:9-11). The significance of this miracle rests in the knowledge that it is the Holy Spirit who alone imparts to us every strength and ability to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in universal terms, no matter how diverse the audience. The voice of the Gospel has not only encountered pluralism since Apostolic times; it has repeatedly demonstrated its inclination to thrive especially within pluralistic societies such as ours. This was the case also with the Apostle Paul, who preached Christ’s Gospel of love and salvation to people from all walks of life, becoming all things to all people, that [he] might by all means save some (1 Corinthians 9:22). In living our Orthodox Christian faith in contemporary America, each of us is encouraged to follow in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul, to recast, with new eyes, our everyday encounters with pluralism as tremendous opportunities for preaching the Gospel through demonstrations of love and kindness for all persons—encounters which take place in even the most routine or leisurely of daily circumstances. As we continue to live in this incredibly diverse and beautiful land, and as we consider the true power of our voice amidst the many voices of our neighbors, let us not forget its tremendous relevance and proven ability to speak to all people. Let us grow in the knowledge that the strength of our voice, which we proclaim every day through our love for others, rests not in its sheer volume or raw intensity, but in the gentleness and universal truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ the Lord. May that truth embrace, guide, and liberate you; and may it impart unto all humanity an ultimate freedom and eternal salvation. Christ said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). While non-Christians may be sincere in their beliefs and reflect the goodness that comes from being created in the image of God, they are not following the correct path. We love them, we respect them, we help them when they are in need, but we do not accept their religions as simple alternatives to Christianity. The writer’s assertion that “difference and variety create harmony” does

not apply when we are discussing the One True Faith. I am surprised and a bit angry that the Orthodox Observer printed this letter. You should at least have added a rebuttal. I understand that your forum allows for the expression of personal opinion, but to print false theology without marking it as such is dangerous. Some readers may have received the impression that the letter represents Orthodox opinion. Bechara Haddad Raleigh, NC

ORDER NOW! PLANNER 2003-2004 The Planner is a daily calendar with daily Epistle and Gospel readings, Saints of the Day, Fast-Day denotations and invaluable resources to assist the Orthodox Christian in their journey. This theme for the 2003-2004 Planner is “Run the Race: Athletes for Christ”. To order the Planner go to www.youth.goarch.org, print the order form, fill out and send in the order form with payment. If you would like to order the Planner over the phone, you can call the order line at 646-519-6187 with your credit card.

AUGUST 2003

The Dormition of the Theotokos

The Feast of the Dormition of Our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary is celebrated on August 15 each year. The Feast commemorates the repose (dormition and in the Greek kimisis) or “falling-asleep” of the Mother of Jesus Christ, our Lord. The Feast also commemorates the translation or assumption into heaven of the body of the Theotokos.

The Theotokos in the Scriptures

ing of our faith—the Resurrection of the body. In the case of the Theotokos, this has been accomplished by the divine will of God. Thus, this Feast is a feast of hope, hope in Resurrection and life eternal. Like those who gathered around the body of the Virgin Mary, we gather around our departed loved ones and commend their souls into the hands of Christ. As we remember those who have reposed in the faith before us and have passed on into the communion of the Saints, we prepare ourselves to one day be received into the new life of the age to come. We also affirm through this Feast as we journey toward our heavenly abode that the Mother of God intercedes for us. Through Christ she has become the mother of all of the children of God, embracing us with divine love.

The Holy Scriptures tell us that when our Lord was dying on the Cross, He saw His mother and His disciple John and said to the Virgin Mary, “Woman, behold your son!” and to John, “Behold your mother!” (John 19:25-27). From that hour, the Apostle took care of the Theotokos in his own home. Along with the biblical reference in Orthodox Christian Celebration Acts 2:14 that confirms that the Virgin Mary The commemoration of the Dormiwas with the Holy Apostles on the day of Pentecost, the tradition of the Church tion of the Theotokos and the preparaholds that she remained in the home of tion for the Feast begin on August 1 with the Apostle John in Jerusalem, continuing a period of fasting. A strict fast is followed on most of the days (no meat, dairy, oil, or a ministry in word and deed. At the time of her death, the dis- wine), with the exceptions of fish on the ciples of our Lord who were preaching Feast of the Transfiguration (August 6) and throughout the world returned to Jeru- the day of the Dormition. Oil and Wine are salem to see the Theotokos. Except for allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. On the weekdays the Apostle Thomas, before the Feast, all of them including Paraklesis services are the Apostle Paul were held in most parishes. gathered together These consist of the at her bedside. At Great Paraklesis and the moment of her the Small Paraklesis, death, Jesus Christ both services of suphimself descended plication and prayer and carried her soul for the intercessions of into heaven. the Theotokos. Following her The Feast of the repose, the body of Dormition is celebratthe Theotokos was ed with the Divine taken in procession Liturgy of Saint John and laid in a tomb Chrysostom, which near the Garden of is conducted on the Gethsemane. When morning of the Feast the Apostle Thomas and preceded by a arrived three days Matins (Orthros) serafter her repose and vice. A Great Vespers desired to see her is conducted on the body, the tomb was Panagia Pammakaristos, 11th century. evening before the day found to be empty. The bodily assumption of the Theotokos of the Feast. Scripture readings for the was confirmed by the message of an angel Feast of the Dormition are the following: At Vespers: Genesis 28:10-17; Ezekiel 43: and by her appearance to the Apostles. 27—44:4; Proverbs 9:1-11. At the Matins: In Orthodox Iconography Luke 1:39-49, 56. At the Divine Liturgy: The Icon of the Feast of the Dormition Philippians 2:5-11; Luke 10:38-42; 11: of the Theotokos shows her on her death- 27-28. bed surrounded by the Apostles. Christ Hymns of the Feast is standing in the center looking at His Apolytikion (First Tone) In birth, you mother. He is holding a small child clothed in white representing the soul of the Vir- preserved your virginity; in death, you did gin Mary. With His golden garments, the not abandon the world, O Theotokos. As angels above His head, and the mandorla mother of life, you departed to the source surrounding Him, Christ is depicted in His of life, delivering our souls from death by your intercessions. divine glory. Kontakion (Second Tone) Neither the The posture of the Apostles direct grave nor death could contain the Theattention toward the Theotokos. On the left Saint Peter censes the body of the otokos, the unshakable hope, ever vigilant Theotokos. On the right Saint Paul bows in intercession and protection. As Mother of life, He who dwelt in the ever-virginal low in honor of her. Together with the Apostles are sev- womb transposed her to life. eral bishops and women. The bishops Resources traditionally represented are James, the Festival Icons for the Christian Year brother of the Lord, Timothy, Heirotheus, by John Baggley (Crestwood, NY: St. and Dionysius the Areopagite. They are Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 2000), pp. shown wearing episcopal vestments. 160-166. The women are members of the church The Festal Menaion. Translated by in Jerusalem. Mother Mary (South Canaan, PA: St. TikIn front of the bed of the Theotokos hon’s Seminary Press, 1969) pp. 63-65. is a candle that helps to form a central axis The Incarnate God: The Feasts of Jein the icon. Above the candle is the body sus Christ and the Virgin Mary, Catherine of the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. Aslanoff, editor and Paul Meyendorff, Standing over His mother is Christ holding translator (Crestwood, NY: St. Vladimir’s her most pure soul. Above Christ the gates Seminary Press, 1995). of heaven stand open, ready to receive the On the Dormition of Mary: Early PaMother of God. tristic Homilies. Translation and introducThis great Feast of the Church and tion by Brian E. Daley, S.J. (Crestwood, the icon celebrates a fundamental teach- NY: St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1998).

ÍÅÁ ÕÏÑÊÇ - ÁÈÇÍÁ

ÊÁÔ’ ÅÕÈÅÉÁÍ ÐÔÇÓÅÉÓ ×ÙÑÉÓ ÓÔÁÈÌÏ ÌÅ ÊÁÍÏÍÉÊÁ ÄÑÏÌÏËÏÃÉÁ ÁÍÏÉÎÇ

ÊÁËÏÊÁÉÑÉ

719 989 $

+Tax

1 Áðñéëßïõ - 12 Éïõíßïõ

ÁÍÏÉÎÇ $834 Atlanta/Charlotte $770 Boston $850 Chicago/Detroit Miami/Ft. Lauderdale $898 Cleveland/Dallas New Orleans $930 Denver $818 Pittsburgh/Washington

+Tax

13 Éïõíßïõ - 04 Óåðôåìâñßïõ $1085 $1005 $1105 $1165 $1205 $1065

ÊÁËÏÊÁÉÑÉ Atlanta/Charlotte Boston Chicago/Detroit Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Cleveland/Dallas New Orleans Denver Pittsburgh/Washington

$30 ÅðéðëÝïí åðéâÜñõíóç ãéá üóïõò ôáîéäåýïõí ÐáñáóêåõÞ, ÓÜââáôï, êáé ÊõñéáêÞ ÐáéäéÜ 2-11 åôþí ðëçñþíïõí 25% ëéãüôåñï

ÅÉÄÉÊÅÓ ÔÉÌÅÓ ÊÁÉ ÁÐÏ ÁËËÅÓ ÐÏËÅÉÓ

��

AUGUST 2003

H C / H C

R E P O R T

Fr. Theodore Stylianopoulos Attends Vatican Symposium BROOKLINE, Mass. – Fr. Theodore Stylianopoulos, Archbishop Iakovos Professor of Orthodox Theology and New Testament at Holy Cross, attended an academic symposium in Rome, May 20-25, on the topic of the Pope’s primacy. A meeting of two dozen Orthodox and Roman Catholic scholars, the symposium was sponsored by the Vatican’s Pontifical Commission for Promoting Christian Unity headed by Walter Cardinal Kasper. The Orthodox participants came from Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Switzerland, and America. Their Roman Catholic counterparts were from France, Germany, and Italy. The symposium was an expression of Pope John Paul II’s advocacy of ecumenical exchanges and his particular interest in encouraging positive mutual relations between the Catholic and the Orthodox Churches. In his encyclical “That They All Be One,” published in the mid 90’s, the pope had made a plea to leaders and theologians of all churches to discuss ways in which the pope’s role might be accepted

as “a service of love recognized by all.” The Rome symposium featured eight major papers on the topic from various perspectives, the New Testament, the Church Fathers, the Ecumenical Councils, and contemporary theology. Fr. Stylianopoulos’ paper was entitled “Concerning the Biblical Foundation of Primacy.” Fr. Stylianopoulos, a graduate of Holy Cross School of Theology, has taught at Holy Cross since 1967 in the areas of New Testament and Orthodox Spirituality. He holds a masters degree from Boston University School of Theology and a doctorate from Harvard Divinity School. A participant in many ecumenical dialogs throughout his career, he is the author of many books and articles. His most recent book is The Way of Christ: Gospel, Spiritual Life, and Renewal in Orthodoxy published by Holy Cross Press (2002). He has also served as Pastor of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Keene, N.H. on weekends since 1978. Fr. Stylianopoulos and Prebsvytera Fotini, with two of their four children, live in Jamaica Plain, Boston.

Global Touch Travel

938 Villa Dr., Villa Hills, KY 41017 USA

ting at

Star

ting at

Star

578 833 $

R/T + lt Fal

ax R/T + ter Summ

Nationwide Toll Free:

1-888-677-8681 Fax: 1-859-344-9883 Visit us on the Web: www.GlobalTouch.net info@GlobalTouch.net

Daily Scheduled Flights from 90 US Cities to Europe

For Endowed Chair James and Lillian Styliades Pledge $1 Million to Holy Cross It was Jonathan Swift, who said, “vision is the art of seeing things invisible.” The art of seeing things invisible is a gift of God, endowed to stewards of the faith, who “look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal” (II Cor. 4:18). by Fr. Petros Kopsahilis

James Thomas and Lillian Styliades are such stewards of the faith, who always look to the “things that are unseen and eternal” in the work and mission of their precious Greek Orthodox Church and her institutions of mission, charity, philanthropy and higher education. They recently gave $1 million to Holy Cross School of Theology in loving memory of James’ parents, Achilea and Anastasia, for the pastoral theology and care chair, which will be known as The Achilea and Anastasia Thomas Styliades Chair of Pastoral Theology and Care. It is this special gift of vision that keeps the Syliadeses a loving Orthodox Christian family heavily committed and involved in countless fronts of stewardship. Beneficiaries of their generosity over the years have been their parish of Sts. Constantine and Helen in Merrillville, Ind., the OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center); the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities), where James serves as a member of the board; the Metropolis of Chicago; the Archdiocese, Leadership 100, (not only James and Lillian but sons Gregory and James G. with their families are members); the Ecumenical Patriarchate (Styliades and his sons are Archons of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle). What a fitting thanksgiving and tribute! Thanksgiving to God for His abundant blessings upon their family; tribute to their parents, who taught them, early on, to be true to the legacy of the Styliades name. The name, which has its roots in the word “Stylos,” means pillar. They were raised to be pillars of stewardship to their community, their Church, their country and their heritage and pillars they became. But, as if that were not enough, they also raised their sons to honor the sacrifices of their forefathers in their behalf by striving to surpass all their achievements of old. Naming the Pastoral Theology and care Chair, which will instruct future priests and lay church leaders in Orthodox pastoral theology, formation, and care is also a tribute of deep gratitude to the

James and Lillian Thomas Styliades

memory of all past clergy and lay leaders, who sacrificed much to bring us to where we are today as a Church and as a people of Orthodox Christian Faith and conviction and who truly became the “styloi”–pillars upon whom God built His Holy Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. In acknowledging the Thomas Styliades’ gift, Fr. Nicholas C. Triantafilou, school president wrote: “Our Church worldwide will be advanced through the ministries that blossom forth from this chair of study, research and teaching. Our parishes throughout the Archdiocese will be significantly edified through the knowledge that our priests will receive and through which our seminarians will be fortified. It is our prayer that you, your sons, daughters-in-law and their families experience God’s every grace and that your gift will be a source of deep spiritual joy to all of you.” The Thomas Styliades family came from Drosopigi, Greece. Achilea and Anastasia (Koche) came from the same Village. Lillian’s mother, Anastasia Christodoulou, came from Athens. Her father, Vlasios Vourvopoulos, came from Corinth. James, a CPA, and Lillian, a pharmacist, after successful practices, ventured into automobile dealerships with both their sons in the family business. They operate dealerships in the Chicago and Northwest Indiana and also are involved in many real estate investments. For more information call the Hellenic College-Holy Cross Office of the President (617) 850-1280.

HOLY SCRIPTURE READINGS

AUGUST . . . . . . . .

1 F...........Heb. 11:22-12:2; Mt. 10:16-23 2 S .....Acts 6:8-7:5, 47-60; Mt. 21:33-42 3 SUN ............ Rom. 15:1-7; Mt. 9:27-35 4 M................. I Cor. 9:13-18; Mt. 16:1-6 5 T ............ I Peter 1:1-2:10; Mt. 16:6-12 6 W ............. II Peter 1:10-19; Mt. 17:1-9 7 Th ............I Cor. 10:28-11:8; Mk. 9:2-9 8 F ..............I Cor. 11:8-23; Mt. 16:29-34 9 S .....Acts 1:12-17, 21-26; Mt 12:30-37 10 SUN ...... I Cor. 1:10-17; Mt. 14:14-22 11 M..........I Cor. 11:31-12:6; M. 18:1-11 12 T... I Cor. 12:12-26; Mt. 18:13-22, 18: 1-2, 13-15 13 W .............. Eph. 6:10-17; Mt 20:1-16 14 Th ......... I Cor. 14:6-19; Mt. 20:17-28 15 F ............... Phil. 2:5-11; Lk. 10:38-42 16 S ..... I Tim. 3:13-4:5; Lk. 9:51-57, 10:

22-24, 13:22 17 SUN ........ I Cor. 3:9-19; Mt. 14:22-34 18 M ........ I Cor. 15:12-19; Mt. 21:18-22 19 T ......... I Cor. 15:29-38; Mt. 21:23-27 20 W .......... I Cor. 16:4-12; Mt. 21:28-32 21 Th .............. II Cor. 1:1-7; Mk 3:13-21 22 F ............. II Cor. 7:1-10; Mk. 1:29-35 23 S Phil. 2:5-11; Lk. 10:38-42, 11: 27-28 24 SUN ........ I Cor. 4:9-16; Mt. 17:14-23 25 M... Titus 1:1-5, 2:15-33:1, 12-15; Mt. 5:14-19 26 T .......... Heb. 10:32-38; Mt. 23:23-28 27 W ............II Cor. 3:4-11; Mt. 23:29-39 28 Th ........... II Cor. 4:1-12; Mt 24:13-18 29 F ............ Acts 13:25-32; Mk. 6:14-30 30 S ................. I Cor. 1:3-9; Mt. 19:3-12 31 SUN ........... Heb. 9:1-7; Mt. 18:23-35

AUGUST 2003

ith the granting of the new Charter to the Archdiocese by the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the distribution of the official text in English, as well as in Greek, it is important to review some of the questions that have been raised and discussed during the process. The questions and answers below highlight many of the key issues related to the Charter and its process of preparation. These are provided for information and explanation along with the text of the Charter and the letters from the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Archbishop.

What is the Charter of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America?

The Charter of the Archdiocese is an ecclesiastical document that in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, Sacred Tradition, and the Canons of the Church outlines the mission and function of the Archdiocese and defines the relationship between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Archdiocese. It includes the rights and privileges granted to the Archdiocese by the Patriarchate.

Why was there a need for a new Charter?

The previous Charter of the Archdiocese was granted by the Patriarchate in 1977. Since that time changes and developments in the life of the Church in America have occurred necessitating a new Charter that would provide a proper foundation for continued growth and ministry at all levels of the Church. The need was for a new document that would accommodate these changes with a structure and a language appropriate to the nature and function of our Church in its contemporary setting.

What was the process of preparing the new Charter?

QUESTIONS & on the Answers

The new Charter was prepared over an extensive period of time by a Joint Archdiocesan/Patriarchal Committee, a process that included the participation of our Synod, our Clergy-Laity Congress, our Archdiocesan Council, our Parishes, and our people throughout the Church in America. The text was distributed in advance of and reviewed at the 2002 Congress in Los Angeles. All opinions, ideas, suggestions, and comments were reviewed in the process, carefully documented, and forwarded to the Patriarchate for consideration prior to the granting of the Charter. In addition, the complete transcript of the seven hours of charter discussions of the 2002 Congress was also sent to the Patriarchate. All in all, the process of preparing the Charter has been a remarkable spiritual achievement for which as Orthodox Christians we are deeply thankful to God.

Is the unity of the Archdiocese diminished by the elevation of the Dioceses to Metropolises?

No! It is not! The new Charter clearly states that the Archdiocese is “one indivisible entity” and that the various geographical regions, previously called Dioceses, are now called Metropolises of the Archdiocese. The Archdiocese still has as its administrative and pastoral head the Archbishop, who is the Archbishop of America, the Exarch of the Patriarchate, and the President of the Eparchial Synod. The Synod now consists of the Metropolitans of the Archdiocese, who are identified in title by their respective Metropolises. In fact, the new Charter provides for the unity and uniformity of the Archdiocese in that we no longer have Metropolitans of the Patriarchal Throne and Bishops as the heads of the eight Dioceses, but we now have only Metropolitans of the Archdiocese for the eight Metropolises of the Archdiocese.

How does the new Charter promote the participation of the Laity in the governance of the Church?

The Charter enhances the vital role of the laity in several ways. First, through the Clergy-Laity Congress and the Archdiocesan and Local Councils the laity are directly involved in the administration of the Archdiocese and the Metropolises. Second, in the election of the Archbishop, the Metropolitans, and Bishops, the Archdiocesan Council has an advisory role in selecting the hierarchs for the Church in America. Third, the task of revising the Regulations of the Archdiocese related to the Metropolises, the parishes, and institutions is a process that includes review and comment from the laity. This process has already begun with a productive and harmonious cooperation between our clergy and laity.

How is the Charter related to my local parish?

First and foremost the Charter provides the overall structure and organization

for the proper function of the Archdiocese. As far as the local parish is concerned, no changes are mandated by the new Charter. The Charter contains no articles relating to the control of parish property by the Patriarchate.

Why does the Charter refer to the Archdiocese as hierarchical?

The description of the Archdiocese as hierarchical is a clear recognition of the identity of our Orthodox Church as “Church” in the full sense of the word. This is rooted in our uninterrupted history of 2000 years and our ecclesiology. It is also an affirmation of our identity in the contemporary world as a Church and not a corporation, a business, or a secular organization.

How does the Charter relate to our relationship as an Archdiocese with the other Orthodox jurisdictions in America?

The Charter does not diminish in any way the progress that has and will continue to be made in the cooperation among the Orthodox jurisdictions in America. In fact, the proper organization and function of the Archdiocese will further our significant contributions to Orthodox work in missions, philanthropy, education, campus ministry, ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, etc. and will ensure that more cooperation will strengthen the bonds of unity among all Orthodox in America.

NEW CHARTER

How does the Charter affect the National Ministries of the Archdiocese?

The Charter affirms the work of National Ministries through the departments, ministries, organizations, and institutions of the Archdiocese that address the needs of our youth and our families, and that meet the needs for education, missions, and philanthropy. As a unified Church in America, we work on a national level to provide programs and resources that will assist the work at the parish and Metropolis levels. According to the Charter, it is a “one” and “indivisible” Archdiocese that “proclaims the Gospel of Christ”, “cultivates and guides the life of the Church in the United States”, “sanctifies the faithful through Divine Worship”, and “builds the spiritual and ethical life of the faithful in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, Sacred Tradition and the Canons”.

How does the Charter affirm the relationship of the Archdiocese and the Patriarchate?

The Charter makes clear that the Archdiocese and the Patriarchate are organically related, not only as an affirmation of the unity of the Church, but also in the mission to offer our Orthodox faith throughout the world. As a strong and growing Archdiocese, we contribute to the vital work of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, which has been for centuries a bearer of the Cross of Christ and, which in spite of limitations of freedom, is leading Orthodox Christians around the world in addressing global issues and offering the truth and love of Christ. In fact, our Ecumenical Patriarchate is today a universally acknowledged leader, beyond Orthodoxy and even Christianity, in issues of religious freedom, human rights, peace, reconciliation, and the environment. The new Charter upholds this relationship by affirming the true nature of the Church as united in work, mission, and witness as we, the Archdiocese of America and Orthodox faithful, actively participate in and support the sacred work of the Patriarchate.

Does the Charter allow for the growth of the Archdiocese?

The Charter indicates the process for revision or amendment so that the good order and proper function of the Church can be maintained in the future. It is clear from the process for this Charter that this work can be done in an open and edifying way that strengthens the vitality and vision of the Church in America. Further, with the proper organization provided by the new Charter, growth is expected. This growth could lead to future changes as indicated by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew who states in his letter, “This new Charter…will serve the administrative needs of your Holy Archdiocese up until such time when emerging needs will demonstrate the benefits of its change for the progress in Jesus Christ of the Christ-loving whole body of the Archdiocese.” This affirmation and the existence and work of the Holy Archdiocese of America move beyond the text of the Charter to the reality that we as Orthodox Christians are called to grow in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and to share His love with all. With this as our mission, our new Charter will assist us in bringing honor and glory to God through our work as His Church in America.

CHARTER OF THE GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA OFFICIAL ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF THE GREEK ORIGINAL Article 1 – Preamble and Canonical Jurisdiction

a. The Holy Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (“Archdiocese”), with its headquarters located in the City of New York, New York, United States of America, is an Eparchy of the most Holy, Apostolic and Patriarchal Ecumenical Throne of Constantinople (“Ecumenical Patriarchate”), which is the first–ranking see of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church whose head is Christ. b. The Archdiocese, being Hierarchical, as an Eparchy of the Ecumenical Throne, is governed by the Holy Scriptures, Sacred Tradition, the Holy Canons, this Charter, the Regulations promulgated pursuant hereto (“Regulations”), and as to canonical and ecclesiastical matters not provided for herein, by the decisions of the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate (“Holy Synod”). c. The Archdiocese receives within its ranks and under its spiritual aegis and pastoral care Orthodox Christians, who either as individuals or as organized groups in Dioceses and Parishes have voluntarily come to it and which acknowledge the supreme spiritual, ecclesiastical and canonical jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. In the case of the coming to the Archdiocese of organized groups, either Orthodox or heterodox, the opinion and approval of the Ecumenical Patriarchate is required, as it exercises its ecclesiastical jurisdiction over the Orthodox in the Diaspora. d. The Archdiocese serves and pastors to the Orthodox Christians who live in the United States of America. Article 2 – Mission of the Holy Archdiocese

a. The mission of the Archdiocese is to proclaim the Gospel of Christ, to teach and spread the Orthodox Christian faith, to energize, cultivate and guide the life of

the Church in the United States of America according to the Orthodox Christian faith and Sacred Tradition. b. The Archdiocese sanctifies the faithful through the Divine Worship, especially the Holy Eucharist and other Sacraments, building the spiritual and ethical life of the faithful in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, Sacred Tradition, the doctrines and canons of the Ecumenical and local Synods, the canons of the Holy Apostles and Fathers of the Church and of all other Synods recognized by the Orthodox Church, as interpreted by the Great Church of Christ in Constantinople. c. The Archdiocese serves as a beacon, carrier and witness of the message of Christ to all persons who live in the United States of America, through Divine Worship, preaching, teaching and living the Orthodox Christian faith. As to its intra–Orthodox, intra–Christian and inter–religious activities, the Archdiocese follows the positions and guidelines established by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Article 3 – Organization of the Holy Archdiocese

a. The Archdiocese, being the Eparchy of the Ecumenical Throne in the United States of America, is one indivisible entity in its entirety. It is comprised of the New York based Direct Archdiocesan District (“Archdiocesan District”), and Metropolises, the number, seat, and boundaries of which are designated by the Sacred Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese (“Eparchial Synod”), in consultation with the Archdiocesan Council (“Archdiocesan Council”), and are submitted for evaluation and decision to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. b. The Archdiocese of America has its seat in New York City and is incorporated in the State of New York. It is presently comprised of the Direct Archdiocesan District and eight (8) Metropolises. These Metropolises, which also are incorporated, are (ac-

u page 14

14 Your Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America, most honorable Exarch of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, beloved brother and co-celebrant of our Modesty in the Holy Spirit; Grace be with Your Eminence and peace from God.

Patriarchal Letter

AUGUST 2003

In fact, the unity of the Holy Archdiocese of America is primarily a spiritual reality that derives primarily from the sense of unity that the faithful feel for their ÿ BARTHOLOMEW brothers and sisters, for their shepherds and for BY THE MERCY OF GOD ARCHBISHOP OF CONSTANTINOPLE, the entire Church of Christ, rather than from legal ordinances. Thus, this unity is neither hindered NEW ROME AND ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH by distance, nor by any administrative structure of Prot. No. 1048/2002 institutions. Moreover, institutional unity, which is Filled with joy, we send to Your based solely on administrative regulations, is very beloved Eminence, and through You to the whole body of Your Holy superficial and fragile, in contrast to spiritual unity, which is based on the will, the Archdiocese of America, the new Charter, which has been prepared unity of the spirit, and the mutual love of the faithful that renders it unfaltering and through a long process in cooperation with the representatives of the unshakeable. Archdiocese of America and the respective Committee of the Ecumenical The new Charter also offers advantages to the whole body of the Church of the Patriarchate, and was approved by our Modesty and our Holy and Sacred Holy Archdiocese in the issue of the election of the Archbishop. This happens because, Synod, and by whose regulations the Archdiocese of America will be despite the steady long practice according to which the election of the Archbishop henceforth governed. This new Charter constitutes a decisive step toward has been the exclusive privilege of the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Paprogress over the charter, which has been in effect since 1977, and will serve triarchate, this Charter more clearly reiterates the consultative participation of both the administrative needs of your Holy Archdiocese up until such time when the Eparchial Synod and the Archdiocesan Council in that process, in regards to the emerging needs will demonstrate the benefits of its change for the progress choice of candidates. The designation of particular qualifications for the Office of the in Jesus Christ of the Christ-loving whole body of the Archdiocese. Archbishop, pertaining to the knowledge by the candidate of the local conditions and Experience, going back to ancient history, has proven that all changes situations, is considered an additional element of progress. made to existing systems are smoothly assimilated when they consist of pruAn expression of the remarkable confidence, honor and love of the Holy Mother dent, reasonable and gradual changes. This holds true for living organisms, Great Church of Christ for the whole body of the Holy Archdiocese of America, is the fact which have serious difficulties adjusting to radically different, new situations, that the new Charter, by-passing established practices for the election of Metropolitans, as well as for social organisms, which suffer great calamities when they face hands to the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Holy Archdiocese of America the privilege revolutionary, radical and turmoil-causing restructurings of their existing to recommend, with the cooperation of the Archdiocesan Council, three candidates institutions. Therefore, the Holy Mother Great Church of Christ, following in the event of a vacancy of a Metropolitanate Seat, out of which the Holy and Sacred the wisdom of the Holy Fathers, and greatly caring for the smooth develop- Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate will elect one. ment and progress of the Holy Archdiocese of America, listened to and Judging from the above and many other provisions of the new Charter of the Holy considered with great love and attention all of the opinions expressed by Archdiocese of America, it is evident that the new Charter invites the clergy and laity of all people on this matter. The Mother Church, however, with equal love and concern the Archdiocese, two fundamental and essential factors of the Church, to participate in has chosen and adopted from the suggested proposals the ones that encourage a a continuous, harmonious and productive collaboration on all levels and activities of prudent, reasonable and gradual transformation of the existing laws and regulations. the Archdiocese within the parameters of the canonical tradition of our Holy Orthodox A primary aim in this task was the offering of the possibility to the whole body of the Church. It is only through concord and cooperation that all good goals and purposes Archdiocese of a smooth ascension to the new steps, so that when the proper time of Church members reach success. comes and the adjustment to the new conditions is successfully achieved, the Mother For this reason, and in good hopes, we are sending to You and to the faithful the Church will proceed to offer other possible changes, if the situation at that time shows text of the New Charter ratified by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patrithat such changes are useful for a desirable further development and progress in Christ archate for its immediate application. Along with it, we are sending the Patriarchal and of the Holy Archdiocese of America. Synodal Acts concerning the elevation of the Holy Dioceses of the Holy Archdiocese One of the proven useful and beneficial changes was the elevation of the Dioceses of America to Metropolises. We pray that you, and the clergy and laity around you, under the Holy Archdiocese to Metropolises, which followed the elevation that hap- celebrate the new year of the Lord with joy, peace and divine blessing. We also pray pened some time ago, of the ministering Hierarchs of these Dioceses to Metropolitans. that He bring to you and all humanity the full knowledge of God and His Logos and By the assignment of the administration of the Metropolises to Metropolitans, who are Savior of the world Jesus Christ, Who was sent by Him and was incarnated and born appointed to them and carry the name of their respective Metropolis on their title, the in a manger in Bethlehem, and that He establishes peace on earth and the enjoyment very Archdiocese of America in her entirety is being elevated since from now on she is of divine benevolence by all people. no longer comprised of Dioceses but of Holy Metropolises, and since the Archbishop Finally, we bestow upon the whole body of the Holy Archdiocese of America our of America becomes President of a Synod of Metropolitans and not of Bishops, as was wholehearted paternal and Patriarchal blessing. the case until now, while he continues to retain precedence (προβάδισμα) over the January 18, 2003 Metropolitans of the Archdiocese. This elevation was realized with the clear and unambiguous understanding that the unity and integrity of the Archdiocese will not be affected in the least and that she will continue her vital function unobstructed as the indivisible ecclesiastical organism in America, an organism that is provided with special ÿ BARTHOLOMEW of Constantinople responsibilities and functions, which are related to her characteristics described above. Beloved brother in Christ

u page 13 cording to the order of the English alphabet) the following: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, New Jersey, Pittsburgh and San Francisco. c. The Direct Archdiocesan District and each Metropolis, being incorporated and recognized by civil law, are administered by their respective hierarch according to the Holy Canons, the Ecclesiastical Regulations, and the provisions of this Charter . Article 4 – Governance of the Holy Archdiocese

a. Comprised of the Archbishop as President and the Metropolitans as its members, the Eparchial Synod constitutes the ecclesiastical instrument of governance of the Archdiocese. b. Presided over and represented by its President, the Archbishop, the Eparchial Synod has the ecclesiastical and canonical responsibility for the Archdiocese to the Ecumenical Patriarchate which is its superior ecclesiastical authority. Article 5 – The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Holy Archdiocese

a. The Archbishop as President and the Metropolitans as members constitute the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Holy Archdiocese of America (“Eparchial Synod”). The Archbishop convenes and presides over meetings of the Eparchial Synod which shall meet in regular session, according to the Holy Canons of the Orthodox Church, twice annually, in the spring and in the autumn. The Eparchial Synod may also meet in special session if a special need arises, or if the Ecumenical Patriarchate requests it, in which case the meeting is obligatory. The Eparchial Synod may also be especially called at the request of the Archbishop or of a majority of its members, with the agenda topics specified. b. The Eparchial Synod has all of the authority and responsibility that the Holy Canons and this Charter ascribe to the “Eparchial Synod”. All legal issues which affect the Archdiocese as a whole and its Metropolises are within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Eparchial Synod. Through its president, the Eparchial Synod shall inform the Ecumenical Patriarchate about the issues discussed and the decisions made at its meetings. c. Regulations hereafter promulgated by the Eparchial Synod and approved by the Ecumenical Patriarchate shall govern its manner of operation. Article 6 – Responsibilities and Rights of the Archbishop

The Archbishop of America presides over the Holy Eparchial Synod and is the Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in the United States of America. In his capacity as Archbishop, as President of the Eparchial Synod and as Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, among other rights and responsibilities, the Archbishop: 1. Exercises and performs all of the rights and duties designated for his office by the Holy Canons.

2. Is responsible, together with the Eparchial Synod over which he presides, to the Ecumenical Patriarchate concerning the canonical and orderly functioning, life, governance and activities of the one and indivisible Archdiocese. 3. Reports to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, to which he forwards an annual report on the status of the entire Archdiocese. 4. Is directly responsible for pastoring and governing his own Archdiocesan District. 5. Oversees and coordinates, together with the Eparchial Synod and the Archdiocesan Council, the work which is planned and carried out in each Metropolis, through which the unity of the indivisible Archdiocese is secured and enhanced. 6. Ordains and installs the Metropolitans in their eparchies. 7. Supports his fellow Hierarchs in a brotherly manner as they implement the unified programs of the Archdiocese. 8. Presides over the Eparchial Synod, the Archdiocesan Clergy–Laity Congresses, the meetings of the Archdiocesan Council and the boards of trustees of the major institutions and organizations of the Archdiocese. 9. Represents the Archdiocese and the Ecumenical Patriarchate in their dealings with all ecclesiastical and civil authorities in the United States of America. 10. Presides as Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate over Pan–Orthodox councils, meetings and assemblies and promotes and fosters harmony and cooperation among all Orthodox Christians in the United States of America. 11. Is responsible for intra–Christian and inter–religious activities in the United States of America. 12. Cultivates and strengthens even more the existing bond of unity between the Archdiocese and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. 13. Carries out and implements the provisions of this Charter. Article 7 – Responsibilities and Rights of the Metropolitans

a. Each Metropolitan within his ecclesiastical district and the Archbishop in his Direct Archdiocesan District have the rights and responsibilities of a Bishop in accordance with the Holy Canons and the long established life, praxis and order of the Church as well as the provisions of this Charter, including the exclusive right to occupy the throne behind the altar (Synthronon). b. Among the rights and responsibilities of each Metropolitan are the following: 1. To be a member of the Eparchial Synod and participate in its work, forwarding to the Archbishop an annual report regarding the progress of the work of his Metropolis. 2. To ordain deacons and priests for his Metropolis, following his submission of their candidacy to the Eparchial Synod and the Eparchial Synod’s approval. 3. To consecrate and sanctify for worship churches and chapels. 4. To administer his Metropolis in a considered, orderly, harmonious uuu

AUGUST 2003

Archiepiscopal Letter July 11, 2003

Protocol 71/03

To the Reverend Clergy, the Esteemed Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils, and all the Faithful of the Greek Orthodox Communities in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On behalf of His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, we are distributing to the Holy Metropolises and the Parishes of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America the official text of the Charter of the Archdiocese granted by the Synod of the Patriarchate on January 18, 2003, and its official English translation. This Charter of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is the product of intensive work over several years by the representatives of the Joint Archdiocesan/ Patriarchal Committee, our Holy Eparchial Synod, our Archdiocesan Council, our Clergy-Laity Congresses, and the clergy and lay leadership and membership of the parishes of the Church in America. All have had the opportunity to contribute to a process that has affirmed the level of maturity of our Archdiocese, as our discussions and deliberations have been characterized by respect, honesty, moderated concern, Christian dignity, and deep commitment to the Church and Her mission and function. This Charter affirms first and foremost the unity of our “one and indivisible Archdiocese,” a unity that has been and will continue to be crucial to mission and ministry at all levels. United in our vision, and in our programs and activities, we will meet the needs of our contemporary world in ways that will bring healing, transformation, salvation, and life. Furthermore, this Charter honors our Archdiocese by elevating our Dioceses into

and fiscally responsible manner for the common good. 5. To convene and preside over the Spiritual Court of First Instance in his Metropolis. 6. To issue permits for the celebration of the sacrament of marriage and decrees of ecclesiastical divorce in the event of the dissolution of marriage. 7. To distribute to the parish priests the Myron (Holy Chrismation Oil) which is received from the Holy and Great Church of Christ through the Archbishop, and 8. To have his pheme (Bishop’s anthem) canonically chanted during the Divine Liturgy. His pheme, however, shall not include hypertimia (supreme honor) and exarchia (exarchy). c. During the periods between meetings of the Eparchial Synod, the Archbishop having received to this end its authorization of the Eparchial Synod, issues the ordination permit as well as the permit to the Metropolitans of the indivisible Archdiocese of America for their canonical (annual) or extraordinary absence outside the United States. Article 8 – Order of Commemoration

During Divine Worship, the Sacraments and the Sacred Services, Priests and Deacons commemorate their canonical Hierarch. The Archbishop and the Metropolitans commemorate the name of the Ecumenical Patriarch at the liturgical exclamation of the “en protois mnestheti…” (first of all remember Lord…). The Auxiliary Bishops commemorate the name of their respective Hierarch. At the Great Entrance of the Divine Liturgy, after the commemoration of their Archbishop and Patriarch, the Metropolitans also commemorate their Archbishop in America. Article 9 – Spiritual Courts

a. A Spiritual Court of First Instance functions within the Archdiocesan District and within each Metropolis. Each Spiritual Court is comprised of four senior clergy selected by the Hierarch, who presides over it, and hears cases involving family problems, divorce, and moral and disciplinary offenses of clergy and lay persons. The Court decrees the measures of correction and healing as provided by the Holy Canons and Tradition of the Orthodox Church. b. The Spiritual Court of Second Instance (Appeals) is comprised of the Archbishop, who presides over it, the members of the Eparchial Synod and the Chancellor of the Archdiocese as secretary. In the absence of the Archbishop for good cause, the first ranking among the Metropolitans shall preside. It is convened when the Eparchial Synod meets, and hears at the Second Instance all appeals of decisions from the Spiritual Courts of First Instance. The Hierarch who was the judge of the First Instance Court shall not participate in the decision of the Spiritual Court of the Second Instance (Appeals). c. Appeals from the rulings of the Spiritual Court of the Second Instance (Appeals) involving Clergy and Laity may be submitted to the Ecumenical Patriarchate for review. The decisions of the Ecumenical Patriarchate regarding these appeals are final and irrevocable. d. According to ecclesiastical authorization granted to it, the Eparchial Synod convenes as a Spiritual Court of First Instance for cases involving Metropolitans and Bishops. e. Acting as a Second Instance Court and a Court of Appeals, the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate hears and judges irrevocably those cases. f. The Eparchial Synod submits any charges which require defrocking of clergy to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The proposed defrocking can only be determined by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. g. The operating procedures of the Spiritual Courts will be based upon Regulations hereafter promulgated by the Eparchial Synod and approved by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Article 10 – Archdiocesan Clergy–Laity Congress

a. Archdiocesan Clergy–Laity Congresses (“Congress”) are convened at least triennially and presided over by the Archbishop. Except for dogmatic or canonical matters,

Metropolises of the Archdiocese, and by enhancing our participation in the process of the election of the Archbishop and the Metropolitans. In addition, the cooperation between clergy and laity and their harmonious function within the Church is clearly affirmed throughout the various articles of the new Charter. I should like to draw your attention to the important letter of His All Holiness, our Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, accompanying this Charter. This letter constitutes an inspiring introduction to the new Charter and offers precious and insightful guidelines for a proper understanding of it and for the wide and bright perspectives opened to our Archdiocese by its implementation. We respectfully offer our gratitude to His All Holiness and the members of the Holy and Sacred Synod for their commitment to the continued growth of the Archdiocese and for their recognition of the service that the Greek Orthodox Church in America offers to this country and throughout the world for the growth and edification of the Body of Christ and for the glory of God. Further, we call upon all of the faithful of our Holy Archdiocese to give thanks to God for guiding us through this process with the wisdom and love which can only come from above and are befitting His people. It is through the divine work of the Holy Spirit that we know and affirm our potential for offering faith, quality ministry, and true life in Christ. May the presence of our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ continue to strengthen you in your sacred offerings of love and service, and as the Holy Archdiocese of America may we always seek to further the work of His Church until His great and glorious return. With paternal love in Christ,

† Archbishop DEMETRIOS of America Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

they are concerned with all other matters which affect the life, mission, growth and unity of the Archdiocese of America, and especially the uniform administration of the Archdiocesan District, the Metropolises and Parishes, the educational programs, financial programs and philanthropic concerns of the Archdiocese, and the more active participation of the Archdiocese in the life of the United States of America. The Congress makes such decisions as it deems appropriate. b. The Congress is presided over by the Archbishop and is comprised of the members of the Eparchial Synod, the Auxiliary Bishops, the members of the Archdiocesan Council, and clergy and lay representatives of the Parishes of the Archdiocese. c. The decisions of the Congress are submitted by the Eparchial Synod, through its President, the Archbishop, to the Ecumenical Patriarchate for approval. In the event that no response is received from the Ecumenical Patriarchate within ninety (90) days following the receipt of the decisions by it, the decisions shall be deemed approved. Following their approval, the decisions must be faithfully and firmly adhered to by all Parishes, whether or not they were represented at the Congress, and regardless of whether they voted with the minority. d. Regulations hereafter promulgated shall set forth the composition, functioning, and frequency of convening of the Congress. Article 11 – Local Clergy–Laity Assemblies

a. The Archdiocesan District and each Metropolis shall have a Clergy–Laity Assembly (“Assembly”) convened and presided over by its local Hierarch. The Assembly is comprised of the priests and lay representatives of the Parishes within its jurisdiction and the members of the Local Council. b. Except for dogmatic or canonical issues, the local Assemblies are concerned with matters affecting the life and growth of the Archdiocesan District or the Metropolises, as may be applicable, and the unity thereof. They deal with local matters including the uniform governance of the Parishes, educational programs, financial programs and philanthropic concerns, as well as with the better organization and effectiveness of the Parishes. c. Each Assembly may propose to the Archdiocese items for inclusion in the agenda of the upcoming Congress. d. Regulations hereafter promulgated shall set forth the composition, functioning, and frequency of convening of the Assembly. Article 12 – Locum Tenentes

a. In the event of a vacancy in the office of the Archbishop, the member of the Eparchial Synod first in order of seniority of episcopal ordination, or––if he is impaired––the next in rank, becomes the locum tenens by designation of the Ecumenical Patriarch, until the election of the new Archbishop. b. In the event a Metropolitan See becomes vacant, the Archbishop, in consultation with the Eparchial Synod, designates the Metropolitan of an adjacent See as the locum tenens who serves until a successor is elected. Article 13 – Election of the Archbishop

a. The election of the Archbishop is the exclusive privilege and the canonical right of the Holy Synod. The Eparchial Synod, as well as the Archdiocesan Council, have an advisory opinion regarding the person of the Archbishop to be elected. This opinion will be submitted in writing to the Holy Synod in a timely fashion or it may be submitted by a special delegation so that it may be duly evaluated on the basis of meritocratic criteria. b. A candidate for the office of Archbishop must be a person of deep faith and ethos, a Greek Orthodox Christian, a graduate of an academically accredited Orthodox school of theology of the highest level and have all the qualifications as provided by the Holy Canons for Hierarchical office. Also, the candidate shall have a fluent knowledge of spoken and written English and Greek, have proven ability in administration and pastoral work, and be totally committed to the preservation of unity within the Archdiocese as well as to its bond of unity with the Ecumenical Patriarchate. In addition, he shall not be less than

u page 16

AUGUST 2003

u page 15 forty (40) years of age and have had a period of successful service in the Archdiocese of no less than five (5) years, or to have proven, direct, substantive and broad knowledge of the life and status of the Church in America. c. Those fulfilling the above conditions are candidates regardless of the place of residence or service during the time of the election. Article 14 – Election of a Metropolitan

a. In every regular meeting and in consultation with the Archdiocesan Council, the Eparchial Synod reviews and modifies, through additions and deletions, the list of those eligible for the office of Metropolitan. The Auxiliary Bishops are automatically included in this list by virtue of their office. The Eparchial Synod submits the list so completed to the Ecumenical Patriarchate for its approval. The list becomes definitive after its ratification by the Ecumenical Patriarchate and is then officially published by the Archdiocese. b. Immediately following a vacancy in the See of a Metropolis, but no later than forty (40) days thereafter, the Archbishop convenes the Eparchial Synod in a timely fashion, for the purpose of nominating, after soliciting the opinion of the members of the Archdiocesan Council, three persons, out of whom one shall be elected to fill the vacancy of the Metropolis. The nominees are taken from the above mentioned list of those eligible, pursuant to the procedure provided for by the Regulations of the Eparchial Synod. c. The list of three nominees thus established is submitted to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. According to the existing practice, the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate elects one of the three as the new Metropolitan. d. A nominee for the office of Metropolitan shall be a person of deep faith and ethos, a Greek Orthodox Christian, a graduate of an academically recognized and accredited Orthodox school of theology of the highest level, have a fluent knowledge of spoken and written English and Greek, and have a proven ability in administration and pastoral work. In addition, the nominee must have all the pertinent qualifications defined by the Holy Canons, shall not be less than thirty–five (35) years of age, and shall have had a period of sufficient service in the Archdiocese. e. Those fulfilling the above conditions are candidates and are included in the list of eligible candidates regardless of the place of residence during the time of the election. Article 15 – Elections of Auxiliary Bishops

a.For the election of Auxiliary Bishops the same procedure shall be followed as for the election of Metropolitans (see Article 14). b. Regulations regarding the Auxiliary Bishops shall be promulgated by the Eparchial Synod and put into effect after its approval by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Article 16 – Assignment and Transfer of Clergy

a. The assignment and transfer of Clergy within the Archdiocesan District and each Metropolis is the exclusive right and privilege of the respective Hierarch. b. The initial placement of a clergyman is made by the Archbishop in consultation with the Metropolitan in whose Metropolis the clergyman will be placed. The assignment will be made by the Archbishop or the Metropolitan in whose Archdiocesan District or Metropolis the clergyman will serve. c. The transfer of clergy between Metropolises (or between the Archdiocesan District and a Metropolis) is the right of the Hierarchs involved who will effectuate all transfers according to the ecclesiastical regulations in force. All transfers and assignments shall be communicated to the Archdiocese for its information and use. Article 17 – Archdiocesan Council

a. The membership of the Archdiocesan Council is comprised of the Archbishop as President, the Metropolitans and Auxiliary Bishops, and representatives of the clergy and laity from the Parishes of the Archdiocesan District and of each Metropolis. b. The Archdiocesan Council is convened by the Archbishop and meets in regular session at least twice a year and in special session as often as is considered necessary. c. Except for dogmatic and canonical matters, which are within the competence of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Archdiocesan Council is concerned with matters and issues that affect the life, growth and unity of the Holy Archdiocese of America, and makes such decisions thereon as it deems necessary. The Archdiocesan Council functions as the advisory and consultative body to the Archbishop and to the Eparchial Synod. d. The Archdiocesan Council is concerned with the Archdiocesan ministries, institutions, and financial affairs of the Holy Archdiocese of America. Together with the Eparchial Synod, the Archdiocesan Council is concerned with the interpretation and implementation of the decisions of the Congress, as well as the Regulations adopted pursuant to this Charter on matters within its jurisdiction. The Archdiocesan Council has such duties and responsibilities as set forth herein, as well as those provided for under any Regulations pertaining to it in matters within its jurisdiction. e. In the event that action becomes necessary between Congresses, the Archdiocesan Council shall exercise the authority of the Congress when so convened by the Archbishop and advised as to the purpose and necessity therefore. f. Specific Regulations shall set forth the composition, functioning, jurisdiction, and convening of the Archdiocesan Council. Article 18 – Local Councils

a. The Local Council of the Direct Archdiocesan District and of each Metropolis (“Local Council”) is the consultative and advisory body to its respective Hierarch. Except for dogmatic and canonical matters, it is concerned with matters and problems that affect the unity, life and growth of the corresponding ecclesiastical area, and is comprised of the respective Hierarch as chairman, and clergy and laity of his area as members. b. The Local Council shall meet in regular session at least semi–annually and in special session as often as the local Hierarch deems necessary. c. The Local Council is concerned with the ministries, institutions, programs, and financial affairs of the corresponding ecclesiastical area. It has the duties, responsibilities and competence designated to it and provided for under the Regulations pertaining to it. d. Specific Regulations shall set forth the composition, functioning, jurisdiction, and convening of the Local Council. Article 19 – Education

a. The Archdiocese establishes and oversees educational institutions, both religious and cultural, which offer Catechetical training and Greek paideia, as may be necessary, such as the present Holy Cross School of Theology and Hellenic College. b. The Archdiocese also establishes educational programs which may be necessary

to serve its cultural, catechetical, educational and other needs. c. The Archdiocese publishes such religious and educational materials as may be appropriate to the fulfillment of its mission. d. Regulations hereafter promulgated shall provide for the establishment and functioning of all necessary educational institutions, as well as for the formation of related programs. Article 20 – Ministries and Institutions

a. All major existing or future institutions of the Archdiocese shall be the property and responsibility of the Archdiocese (see Article 17, d), while those of a local nature shall be the respective property and responsibility of each local ecclesiastical administration (see Article 18, c). b. The establishment of new institutions, including, but not limited to, educational, recreational, charitable, retirement homes and the like, as well as the dissolution of such institutions, requires prior approval of the Eparchial Synod and the consent of the Archdiocesan Council or the Local Council, as may be applicable. c. The manner of operation of such institutions shall be pursuant to Regulations hereafter promulgated. Article 21 – Holy Monasteries

a. Monasteries and organized communities of monastics function according to the long established, canonical tradition and practice of the Church. As such, they are ecclesiastical institutions, functioning under the direct canonical jurisdiction and supervision of the Hierarch in whose ecclesiastical jurisdiction they are located. b. Monasteries are founded by the local Hierarch, following approval of the Eparchial Synod. Canonically, their administration and financial affairs are the responsibility of the local Hierarch, whose name is to be commemorated during Divine Worship. c. The Monasteries that operate in the United States of America continue the long established monastic life and witness. They function according to the prevailing Monastic Law and the letter and the spirit of the Regulations that define their operation. d. Regulations for the establishment, organization and operation of Monasteries shall be promulgated by the Eparchial Synod and approved by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Article 22 – Regulations

a. All Regulations pertaining to the implementation of this Charter shall be in conformity with the Holy Canons, Sacred Tradition and long existing life and practice of the Holy Orthodox Church, as developed in the framework of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and in conformity with the letter and the spirit of this Charter. b. Regulations for the implementation of this Charter shall be proposed, approved, and ratified as follows: 1. Regulations pertaining to the operations of the Eparchial Synod, the Spiritual Courts and the Monasteries shall be promulgated by the Eparchial Synod and approved by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. 2. Regulations pertaining to the composition of the Archdiocesan Council and the Local Councils shall be promulgated by the Congress. Regulations pertaining to the functioning of these bodies shall be promulgated by the Archdiocesan Council. 3. All other Regulations, including those pertaining to the composition, the frequency of meetings and manner of functioning of the Congress, Assemblies, and Parishes of the entire Holy Archdiocese, shall be proposed by the Archdiocesan Council and promulgated by the Congress. 4. All regulations mentioned in the above paragraphs 2 and 3 and, in general, all Regulations pursuant to the present Charter shall be submitted by the Eparchial Synod, through its President, to the Ecumenical Patriarchate for final review and approval. In the event that no response is received from the Ecumenical Patriarchate within ninety (90) days following the receipt of the Regulations by it, they shall be deemed approved. c. Until the adoption and approval of Regulations under this Charter, all existing regulations shall continue in full force and effect. However, in the event of a conflict between this Charter and any such regulations, the provisions of this Charter shall prevail. d. The present Charter and all Regulations adopted and approved pursuant to this Charter shall be published by the Archdiocese. e. The Archdiocesan Council shall interpret all Regulations except those approved and ratified pursuant to the provisions of Articles 5, 9, and 21 hereof. Article 23 – Language and Authentic Text

The languages of this Charter and any Regulations hereunder promulgated shall be English and Greek. The English text, as approved by the Patriarchate, shall be deemed the legal and governing text. In the event of need, this Charter shall be authoritatively interpreted by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Article 24 – Implementation

This present Charter is granted to the Archdiocese of America by the Ecumenical Patriarchate and is effective immediately. Article 25 – Amendment

The present Charter regulating the affairs of the Holy Archdiocese of America as an ecclesiastical institution, may be amended in its entirety or in part after a proposal of the Holy Eparchial Synod submitted to the Ecumenical Patriarchate following the appropriate procedure in the Archdiocesan Council and the Archdiocesan Clergy–Laity Congress, and after the approval of the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to which the proposal has been submitted. In the year of our Lord 2003, on the 18th day of the month of January, The Archbishop of Constantinople, New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew declares

ÿ Chrysostom of Ephesus ÿ Photios of Heracleia ÿ Constantine of Derkon ÿ Germanos of Theodoropolis ÿ Theoklitos of Metra and Athyra ÿ Cyril of Imvros and Tenedos ÿ Iakovos of Pringhiponnison ÿ Demetrios of Sebasteia ÿ Irineos of Myriophyton and Peristasis ÿ Chrysostom of Myra ÿ Apostolos of Moschonissia ÿ Theoleptos of Iconium

AUGUST 2003

ΣΥΝΤΑΓΜΑ

ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΕΛΛΗΝΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΥ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗΣ ΑΜΕΡΙΚΗΣ ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 1 – ΠΡΟΛΟΓΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΚΑΝΟΝΙΚΗ ΥΠΑΓΩΓΗ α. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἑλληνορθόδοξος Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς (ἐν τοῖς ἐφ’ ἑξῆς: «Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς»), ἑδρεύουσα ἐν Νέᾳ Ὑόρκῃ τῶν Ἡνωμένων Πολιτειῶν Ἀμερικῆς, εἶναι Ἐπαρχία τοῦ Ἁγιωτάτου Ἀποστολικοῦ καί Πατριαρχικοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Θρόνου Κωνσταντινουπόλεως, ὃστις καί ἀποτελεῖ τήν Πρωτόθρονον ἓδραν τῆς Μιᾶς, Ἁγίας, Καθολικῆς καί Ἀποστολικῆς Ἐκκλησίας, ἧς Κεφαλή ὁ Χριστός. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς, οὖσα ἱεραρχική ὡς Ἐπαρχία τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Θρόνου, διοικεῖται ἐπί τῆ βάσει τῆς Ἁγίας Γραφῆς, τῆς Ἱερᾶς Παραδόσεως, τῶν Ἱερῶν Κανόνων, τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος καί τῶν συνῳδά τούτῳ ἐκδιδομένων Κανονισμῶν, καί διά πᾶσαν εἰδικήν περίπτωσιν κανονικῆς καί ἐκκλησιαστικῆς φύσεως, μή προβλεπομένην ὑπ’αὐτῶν, βάσει ἀποφάνσεως τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. γ. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς δέχεται εἰς τούς κόλπους αὐτῆς καί ὑπό τήν πνευματικήν αὐτῆς αἰγῖδα καί διαποίμανσιν τούς Ὀρθοδόξους Χριστιανούς, ὃσοι εἲτε ἀτομικῶς εἲτε ὠργανωμένοι εἰς Ἐπισκοπάς καί Κοινότητας, ἐθελουσίως προσέρχονται εἰς αὐτήν καί ἀναγνωρίζουν τήν ἀνωτάτην πνευματικήν, κανονικήν καί ἐκκλησιαστικήν δικαιοδοσίαν τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. Εἰς τάς περιπτώσεις προσελεύσεως ὠργανωμένων Ὀρθοδόξων ἢ ἑτεροδόξων ὁμάδων εἰς τήν Ἱεράν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν Ἀμερικῆς ἀπαιτεῖται ἡ γνώμη καί ἒγκρισις τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, τοῦ ἒχοντος τήν δικαιοδοσίαν ἐπί τῶν ἐν Διασπορᾷ Ὀρθοδόξων. δ. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς διακονεῖ καί ποιμαίνει τούς Ὀρθοδόξους Χριστιανούς, οἱ ὁποῖοι διαβιοῦν ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις τῆς Ἀμερικῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 2 – ΑΠΟΣΤΟΛΗ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗΣ α. Ἀποστολή τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς εἶναι ἡ κήρυξις τοῦ Εὐαγγελίου τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἡ διδασκαλία καί διάδοσις τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Χριστιανικῆς πίστεως, καί ἡ ἐνεργοποίησις, ἡ καλλιέργεια καί ὁ συντονισμός τῆς ζωῆς τῆς Ἐκκλησίας ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις Ἀμερικῆς, συνῳδά τῇ Ὀρθοδόξῳ πίστει καί παραδόσει. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς ἁγιάζει τούς πιστούς διά τῆς Θείας Λατρείας, ἰδίᾳ τῆς Θείας Εὐχαριστίας καί τῶν ἂλλων Μυστηρίων, καί οἰκοδομεῖ τόν πνευματικόν καί ἠθικόν βίον τῶν πιστῶν, ἐπί τῆ βάσει τῆς Ἁγίας Γραφῆς, τῆς Ἱερᾶς Παραδόσεως, τῶν Ὃρων καί τῶν Κανόνων τῶν Οἰκουμενικῶν καί Τοπικῶν Συνόδων, τῶν Κανόνων τῶν Ἁγίων Ἀποστόλων, τῶν Πατέρων τῆς Ἐκκλησίας, καί τῶν ἂλλων συνόδων, τῶν ἀναγνωριζομένων ὑπό τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας, ὡς οὗτοι ἑρμηνεύονται ὑπό τῆς ἐν Κωνσταντινουπόλει Μεγάλης τοῦ Χριστοῦ Ἐκκλησίας. γ. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς ἀποτελεῖ φάρον, φορέα καί μαρτυρίαν τοῦ μηνύματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ πρός πάντας τούς διαβιοῦντας ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις τῆς Ἀμερικῆς, διά τῆς θείας λατρείας, τοῦ κηρύγματος, τῆς διδαχῆς καί τῆς βιώσεως τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Χριστιανικῆς Πίστεως. Ὡς πρός τάς διορθοδόξους, διαχριστιανικάς καί διαθρησκειακάς αὐτῆς δραστηριότητας, ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς ἀκολουθεῖ τήν ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου καθοριζομένην θέσιν καί γραμμήν. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 3 – ΔΙΑΡΘΡΩΣΙΣ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗΣ α. Ἡ ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις τῆς Ἀμερικῆς Ἐπαρχία τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Θρόνου, οὖσα ἑνιαία ἐν τῇ ὁλότητι αὐτῆς, συγκροτεῖται ἐκ τῆς ἐν Νέᾳ Ὑόρκῃ ἑδρευούσης ἀμέσου Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς καί Μητροπόλεων, ὁ ἀριθμός, ἡ ἓδρα καί τά ὃρια τῶν ὁποίων προσδιορίζονται ὑπό τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς, τῇ διαγνώμῃ τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου, καί ὑποβάλλονται πρός κρίσιν καί ἀπόφασιν εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς ἒχει τήν ἓδραν αὐτῆς ἐν τῇ πόλει τῆς Νέας Ὑόρκης καί ἀποτελεῖ πρόσωπον Νομικοῦ Δικαίου ἐν τῇ Πολιτείᾳ τῆς Νέας Ὑόρκης. Περιλαμβάνει ἐπί τοῦ παρόντος τήν ἂμεσον Ἀρχιεπισκοπικήν περιοχήν καί ὀκτώ Μητροπόλεις. Αἱ Μητροπόλεις αὗται, ἀποτελοῦσαι ἐπίσης πρόσωπα νομικοῦ δικαίου, εἶναι (κατά τήν σειράν τοῦ ἑλληνικοῦ ἀλφαβήτου) αἱ ἀκόλουθοι: Ἁγίου Φραγκίσκου, Ἀτλάντας, Βοστώνης, Νέας Ἰερσέης, Ντένβερ, Ντητρόΐτ, Πιττσβούργου καί Σικάγου. γ. Ἡ ἂμεσος Ἀρχιεπισκοπική περιοχή καί ἑκάστη Μητρόπολις, οὖσαι πρόσωπα νομικοῦ δικαίου, ἀνεγνωρισμένα ὑπό τοῦ ἀστικοῦ νόμου, διοικοῦνται ὑπό τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου κατά τούς Ἱερούς Κανόνας, τάς ἐκκλησιαστικάς διατάξεις καί τά προβλεπόμενα ὑπό τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 4 – ΔΙΟΙΚΗΣΙΣ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗΣ α. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος, συγκροτουμένη ἐκ τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ὡς προέδρου καί τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν ὡς μελῶν, ἀποτελεῖ τό ἐκκλησιαστικόν ὂργανον διοικήσεως τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος, προεδρευομένη καί ἐκπροσωπουμένη ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, ὑπέχει τήν ἐκκλησιαστικήν καί κανονικήν εὐθύνην τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς ἒναντι τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, ὡς τῆς ὑπερκειμένης Ἐκκλησιαστικῆς αὐτῆς ἀρχῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 5 – ΙΕΡΑ ΕΠΑΡΧΙΑΚΗ ΣΥΝΟΔΟΣ ΤΗΣ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗΣ α. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς συγκροτεῖται ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ὡς Προέδρου καί τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν ὡς μελῶν. Ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος συγκαλεῖ τήν Ἱεράν Ἐπαρχιακήν Σύνοδον καί προεδρεύει τῶν συνεδριῶν αὐτῆς. Αὓτη συνέρχεται ἀπαραιτήτως μέν, κατά τούς Ἱερούς Κανόνας τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας, δίς τοῦ ἒτους, κατά τήν Ἂνοιξιν καί τό Φθινόπωρον, ἐκτάκτως δ’ὁσάκις παρίσταται ἀνάγκη, ἢ ὁσάκις ἢθελε ζητήσει τοῦτο τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον, ὃτε καί ἡ σύγκλησις εἶναι ὑποχρεωτική. Ἡ Σύνοδος ἐπίσης συγκαλεῖται ἐκτάκτως ὁσάκις ἢθελε ζητήσει τοῦτο ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος ἢ ἡ πλειονότης τῶν μελῶν αὐτῆς, ὑποβάλλοντες ἃμα καί τά θέματα τῆς ἡμερησίας διατάξεως. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος ἒχει τάς ἁρμοδιότητας καί εὐθύνας, ὃσας οἱ Ἱεροί Κανόνες καί τό παρόν Σύνταγμα προβλέπουν διά τήν «Σύνοδον τῆς

Ἐπαρχίας». Ὃλα τά νομικά θέματα, τά ὁποῖα ἐπηρεάζουν τήν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν καί τάς Μητροπόλεις αὐτῆς συνολικῶς, ἀνήκουν εἰς τήν ἀποκλειστικήν ἁρμοδιότητα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου. Ὁ Πρόεδρος αὐτῆς δι’ ἐκθέσεως ἐνημεροῖ ἑκάστοτε τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον περί τῶν συζητηθέντων θεμάτων καί τῶν ληφθεισῶν ἀποφάσεων. γ. Κανονισμός, ὑπό τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καταρτιζόμενος καί ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ἐγκρινόμενος, ρυθμίζει τά τῆς λειτουργίας αὐτῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 6 – ΕΥΘΥΝΑΙ ΚΑΙ ΑΡΜΟΔΙΟΤΗΤΕΣ ΤΟΥ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΟΥ Ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀμερικῆς προεδρεύει τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί εἶναι Ἒξαρχος τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις Ἀμερικῆς. Ἐν τῇ ἰδιότητι αὐτοῦ ὡς Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, ὡς Προέδρου τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί ὡς Ἐξάρχου τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀμερικῆς ἒχει, μεταξύ ἂλλων, τάς κάτωθι ἁρμοδιότητας καί εὐθύνας: 1. Ἀσκεῖ πάντα τά ὑπό τῶν Ἱερῶν Κανόνων τῷ ἀξιώματι αὐτοῦ ὁριζόμενα καθήκοντα καί δικαιώματα. 2. Ἒχει, ὁμοῦ μετά τῆς ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ προεδρευομένης Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, τήν εὐθύνην ἒναντι τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, διά τήν κανονικήν καί ὁμαλήν λειτουργίαν καί ζωήν, διοίκησιν καί δραστηριότητα τῆς μιᾶς καί ἑνιαίας Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 3. Ἒχει τήν ἀναφοράν αὐτοῦ πρός τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον καί ὑποβάλλει ἐτησίως ἒκθεσιν ἐπί τῆς καταστάσεως τῆς ὃλης Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 4. Ἒχει τήν ἂμεσον εὐθύνην τῆς διαποιμάνσεως τῆς ἀμέσου Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς αὐτοῦ περιοχῆς. 5. Ἐπιβλέπει καί συντονίζει, ὁμοῦ μετά τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου, τό προγραμματιζόμενον καί ἐπιτελούμενον ἒργον ἐν ταῖς ἐπί μέρους Μητροπόλεσι, δι’ οὗ ἐξασφαλίζεται καί προάγεται ἡ ἑνότης τῆς ἑνιαίας Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 6. Χειροτονεῖ καί ἐγκαθιδρύει τούς Μητροπολίτας εἰς τάς Ἐπαρχίας αὐτῶν. 7. Συμπαρίσταται τοῖς Μητροπολίταις ἀδελφικῶς ἐν τῇ ἐφαρμογῇ τῶν ἑνιαίων προγραμμάτων τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 8. Προεδρεύει τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, τῶν Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῶν Κληρικολαϊκῶν Συνελεύσεων, τῶν συνεδριάσεων τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου καί τῶν Ἐφορειῶν τῶν μειζόνων Ἱδρυμάτων καί Σωμάτων τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 9. Ἀντιπροσωπεύει τήν Ἱεράν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν Ἀμερικῆς καί τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον ἐνώπιον πάσης ἐκκλησιαστικῆς καί πολιτικῆς Ἀρχῆς ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις Ἀμερικῆς. 10. Ὡς Ἒξαρχος τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, προεδρεύει Διορθοδόξων ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις Ἀμερικῆς Ἐπιτροπῶν, Συνεδρίων καί Συνελεύσεων, καί προάγει καί καλλιεργεῖ ἁρμονικήν συνεργασίαν μεταξύ ὃλων τῶν ἐν αὐταῖς Ὀρθοδόξων Χριστιανῶν. 11. Ἒχει τήν εὐθύνην διά τάς διαχριστιανικάς καί διαθρησκειακάς δραστηριότητας ἐν ταῖς Ἡνωμέναις Πολιτείαις τῆς Ἀμερικῆς. 12. Καλλιεργεῖ καί ἰσχυροποιεῖ ἒτι πλέον τόν ὑφιστάμενον δεσμόν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς μετά τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. 13. Ἐπιμελεῖται τῆς ἐφαρμογῆς τῶν διατάξεων τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 7 – ΕΥΘΥΝΑΙ ΚΑΙ ΑΡΜΟΔΙΟΤΗΤΕΣ ΤΩΝ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΙΤΩΝ α. Ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ αὐτῶν ἐκκλησιαστικῇ περιφερείᾳ ἓκαστος τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν καί ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος ἐν τῇ ἀμέσῳ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῇ περιοχῇ αὐτοῦ ἒχουσι τήν ἐξουσίαν καί τάς εὐθύνας, τάς ὁποίας οἱ Ἱεροί Κανόνες καί ἡ μακραίων ζωή, πρᾶξις καί τάξις τῆς Ἐκκλησίας, ὡς καί αἱ διατάξεις τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος, ὁρίζουν διά τό Ἐπισκοπικόν ἀξίωμα, μετά καί τῆς ἐν τῷ Συνθρόνῳ ἐγκαθιδρύσεως. β. Εἰς τά δικαιώματα καί καθήκοντα ταῦτα ἑκάστου Μητροπολίτου ἀνάγονται: 1. νά εἶναι μέλος τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί νά μετέχῃ τῶν ἐργασιῶν αὐτῆς, ὑποβάλλων ἐτησίως ἀναφοράν περί τῆς προόδου τοῦ ἒργου τῆς Μητροπόλεως αὐτοῦ εἰς τόν Ἀρχιεπίσκοπον· 2. νά χειροτονῇ διακόνους καί ἱερεῖς διά τήν Μητρόπολιν αὐτοῦ κατόπιν προτάσεως τοῦ ἰδίου καί ἐγκρίσεως ὑπό τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου εἰς τήν ὁποίαν ἡ ὑποψηφιότης ὑποβάλλεται ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ πρός ἒγκρισιν· 3. νά καθαγιάζῃ καί νά καθιερώνῃ διά τήν θείαν λατρείαν τούς ναούς καί τούς εὐκτηρίους οἲκους· 4. νά ἐπιμελῆται τῆς ἐν εὐσχημοσύνῃ, τάξει, ἁρμονίᾳ, οἰκονομικῇ ὑπευθυνότητι καί κατά τό κοινόν συμφέρον διοικήσεως τῆς Μητροπόλεως αὐτοῦ· 5. νά συγκαλῇ τό Πρωτοβάθμιον Πνευματικόν Δικαστήριον τῆς Μητροπόλεως καί νά προεδρεύῃ αὐτοῦ· 6. νά ἐκδίδῃ ἂδειαν πρός τέλεσιν τοῦ μυστηρίου τοῦ γάμου καί διαζευκτήριον γράμμα ἐν περιπτώσει διαλύσεως αὐτοῦ· 7. νά διανέμῃ εἰς τούς κατά ἐνορίαν ἱερεῖς τό παρά τῆς Ἁγίας τοῦ Χριστοῦ Μεγάλης Ἐκκλησίας διά τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου λαμβανόμενον Ἃγιον Μῦρον, καί 8. νά φημίζηται κανονικῶς ὁ ἑκασταχοῦ Μητροπολίτης κατά τήν τέλεσιν τῆς Θείας Λειτουργίας ἂνευ ὃμως ὑπερτιμίας καί ἐξαρχίας. γ. Κατά τά μεταξύ τῆς συγκλήσεως τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου χρονικά διαστήματα, ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος ἒχων τήν πρός τοῦτο ἐξουσιοδότησιν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, παρέχει τήν ἂδειαν χειροτονίας, ὡς καί τήν ἂδειαν κανονικῆς (ἐτησίας) ἢ ἐκτάκτου ἀπουσίας ἐκτός ΗΠΑ τοῖς Μητροπολίταις τῆς ἑνιαίας Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 8 – ΤΑΞΙΣ ΜΝΗΜΟΣΥΝΟΥ Ἐν τῇ θείᾳ λατρείᾳ, τοῖς μυστηρίοις καί ταῖς ἱεραῖς ἀκολουθίαις, οἱ πρεσβύτεροι καί οἱ διάκονοι μνημονεύουν τοῦ κανονικοῦ Ἱεράρχου αὐτῶν. Ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος καί οἱ Μητροπολῖται μνημονεύουν εἰς τό «ἐν πρώτοις μνήσθητι» τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ u óåë. 18

AUGUST 2003

ÁÑ×ÉÅÐÉÓÊÏÐÉÊÏ ÃÑÁÌÌÁ 11 Ἰουλίου 2003

Πρός τόν εὐλαβῆ Κλῆρο, τούς ἀξιοτίµους Προέδρους καί τά Μέλη τῶν Ἐνοριακῶν Συµβουλίων καί ὅλους τούς πιστούς τῶν Ἑλληνικῶν Ὀρθοδόξων Κοινοτήτων ἐν Ἀµερικῇ. Προσφιλεῖς ἀδελφοί καί ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Ἐξ ὀνόµατος τοῦ Παναγιωτάτου Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριάρχου κ.κ. Βαρθολοµαίου καί τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ἀποστέλλουµε στίς Ἱερές Μητροπόλεις καί Ἐνορίες τῆς Ἑλληνικῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς τό ἐπίσηµο κείµενο τοῦ Καταστατικοῦ Χάρτου τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς, ὁ ὁποῖος ἐχορηγήθη ἀπό τήν Σύνοδο τοῦ Πατριαρχείου στίς 18 Ἰανουαρίου 2003, καθώς καί τήν ἐπίσηµη Ἀγγλική µετάφρασή του. Ὁ Καταστατικός αὐτός Χάρτης τῆς Ἑλληνικῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς εἶναι προϊόν πολυετοῦς ἐντατικῆς ἐργασίας ἀντιπροσώπων τῆς Μεικτῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς/Πατριαρχικῆς Ἐπιτροπῆς, τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου µας, τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συµβουλίου, τῶν Κληρικολαϊκῶν Συνελεύσεων, καί τῶν ἡγετικῶν στελεχῶν καί µελῶν τοῦ κλήρου καί τοῦ λαοῦ τῶν ἐνοριῶν τῆς Ἐκκλησίας µας εἰς τήν Ἀµερική. Ἅπαντες εἶχαν τήν δυνατότητα νά συµβάλουν σέ µία διαδικασία ἡ ὁποία ἐπιβεβαίωσε τό ἐπίπεδο ὡριµότητος τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς µας, καθώς οἱ συζητήσεις καί διαβουλεύσεις µας ἔγιναν σέ πλαίσια σεβασµοῦ, εἰλικρινείας, µετριοπαθείας, Χριστιανικῆς ἀξιοπρεπείας καί βαθειᾶς ἀφοσιώσεως στήν Ἐκκλησία, τήν ἀποστολή καί τό λειτούργηµά Της. Αὐτός ὁ Καταστατικός Χάρτης ἐπιβεβαιώνει πρωτίστως τήν ἑνότητα τῆς « µιᾶς καί ἑνιαίας Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς», µία ἑνότητα ἡ ὁποία ἦτο καί θά συνεχίση ν’ ἀποτελῇ ζωτικό στοιχεῖο τῆς ἀποστολῆς καί διακονίας τῆς Ἐκκλησίας σέ ὅλα τά ἐπίπεδα. Ἔχοντας κοινά ὁράµατα, προγράµµατα καί δραστηριότητες, θά ἀνταποκριθοῦµε στίς ἀνάγκες τοῦ συγχρόνου κόσµου µας µέ τρόπους οἱ ὁποῖοι θά προσφέρουν ἵαση, µεταµόρφωση, σωτηρία καί ζωή. Ἐπιπλέον, ὁ Καταστατικός Χάρτης τιµᾶ τήν Ἀρχιεπισκοπή µας µέ τήν ἀνύψωση τῶν Ἐπισκοπῶν σέ Μητροπόλεις τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς, καί µέ τήν ἐνίσχυση τῆς συµµετοχῆς µας στήν διαδικασία ἐκλογῆς Ἀρχιεπισκόπου καί Μητροπολιτῶν. Ἐπιπροσθέτως, ἡ συνεργασία µεταξύ κλήρου καί λαοῦ καί ἡ ἁρµονική συνύπαρξίς

u óåë. 17 Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριάρχου. Οἱ Βοηθοί Ἐπίσκοποι μνημονεύουν τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ οἰκείου αὐτῶν Ἱεράρχου. Οἱ Μητροπολῖται κατά τήν Μεγάλην Εἲσοδον, μετά τόν Ἀρχιεπίσκοπον καί Πατριάρχην αὐτῶν, μνημονεύουν καί τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου αὐτῶν ἐν Ἀμερικῇ. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 9 – ΠΝΕΥΜΑΤΙΚΑ ΔΙΚΑΣΤΗΡΙΑ α. Τά Πρωτοβάθμια Πνευματικά Δικαστήρια λειτουργοῦν παρά τῇ ἀμέσῳ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῇ περιοχῇ καί παρ’ἑκάστῃ τῶν Μητροπόλεων. Συγκροτοῦνται ἐκ τεσσάρων ἀξιωματούχων πρεσβυτέρων ἐπιλεγομένων ὑπό τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου, ὃστις καί προεδρεύει. Κρίνουν ὑποθέσεις οἰκογενειακοῦ δικαίου καί διαζυγίων, καθώς καί ἠθικῶν ἢ πειθαρχικῶν παραπτωμάτων κληρικῶν καί λαϊκῶν, καί λαμβάνουν τά ὑπό τῶν Ἱερῶν Κανόνων καί τῆς Παραδόσεως τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας ἐνδεικνύμενα μέτρα διορθώσεως καί θεραπείας. β. Τό Δευτεροβάθμιον Πνευματικόν Δικαστήριον συγκροτεῖται ἐκ τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ὡς Προέδρου, τῶν μελῶν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί τοῦ Πρωτοσυγκέλλου τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς ὡς γραμματέως. Ἐν ἀπουσίᾳ, εὐλόγως κωλυομένου, τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, προεδρεύει ὁ πρῶτος τῇ τάξει τῶν μελῶν τῆς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου. Συνεδριάζει ὁσάκις καί ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος καί ἐκδικάζει εἰς δεύτερον βαθμόν ἐφέσεις τῶν Πρωτοβαθμίων Πνευματικῶν Δικαστηρίων. Ἐξαιρεῖται τῆς συγκροτήσεως τοῦ Δευτεροβαθμίου Δικαστηρίου τούτου ὁ δικάσας πρωτοβαθμίως Ἱεράρχης. γ. Ἐφέσεις ἒναντι τῶν ἀποφάσεων τοῦ Δευτεροβαθμίου Πνευματικοῦ Δικαστηρίου ἀπό μέρους κληρικῶν καί λαϊκῶν δύνανται νά ὑποβληθοῦν εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον. Αἱ ἐπί ἐφέσεων ἀποφάσεις τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου εἶναι τελεσίδικοι καί ἀμετάκλητοι. δ. Ὑποθέσεις ἀφορῶσαι εἰς τούς Μητροπολίτας καί εἰς τούς Ἐπισκόπους κρίνονται πρωτοβαθμίως παρά τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου συνερχομένης ὡς Πνευματικόν Δικαστήριον κατά παρεχομένην εἰς αὐτήν ἐκκλησιαστικήν ἐξουσιοδότησιν. ε. Δευτεροβαθμίως καί κατ’ ἒκκλησιν τάς περιπτώσεις αὐτάς δικάζει ἀμετακλήτως ἡ Ἁγία καί Ἱερά Σύνοδος τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. ς. Ἡ προτεινομένη καθαίρεσις κληρικῶν ἐπιβάλλεται ὑπό τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. Πᾶσα συνεπαγομένη καθαίρεσιν κατηγορία ὑποβάλλεται εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον. ζ. Κανονισμός, καταρτιζόμενος ὑπό τῆς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί ἐγκρινόμενος ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, ρυθμίζει τά τῆς λειτουργίας τῶν Πνευματικῶν Δικαστηρίων. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 10 – ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΙΚΑΙ ΚΛΗΡΙΚΟΛΑΪΚΑΙ ΣΥΝΕΛΕΥΣΕΙΣ α. Αἱ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικαί Κληρικολαϊκαί Συνελεύσεις συγκαλοῦνται τοὐλάχιστον ἀνά τριετίαν καί προεδρεύονται ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου. Αὗται, ἐξαιρουμένων τῶν δογματικῶν καί κανονικῶν ζητημάτων, ἀσχολοῦνται περί πάντα τά θέματα τά ἀφορῶντα εἰς τήν ζωήν, ἀποστολήν, αὒξησιν καί ἑνότητα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς, καί εἰδικώτερον εἰς τήν ὁμοιόμορφον διοίκησιν τῆς ἀμέσου Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς, τῶν Μητροπόλεων καί Ἐνοριῶν, τήν παιδείαν, τά οἰκονομικά προγράμματα, τήν φιλανθρωπίαν καί τήν ἐνεργοτέραν συμμετοχήν αὐτῆς εἰς τήν ζωήν τῶν Ἡνωμένων Πολιτειῶν Ἀμερικῆς, καί λαμβάνουν τάς ἐπί τούτῳ καταλλήλους ἀποφάσεις. β. Αἱ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικαί Κληρικολαϊκαί Συνελεύσεις προεδρεύονται ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου καί συγκροτοῦνται ἐκ τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν, μελῶν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, τῶν βοηθῶν Ἐπισκόπων, τῶν μελῶν τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ

των µέσα στήν Ἐκκλησία ἐπιβεβαιώνεται σαφῶς διά τῶν διαφόρων ἄρθρων τοῦ νέου Καταστατικοῦ Χάρτου. Θά ἤθελα νά ἐπιστήσω τήν προσοχή σας στή σηµαντικότατη ἐπιστολή τοῦ Παναγιωτάτου, Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριάρχου µας κ.κ. Βαρθολοµαίου, ἡ ὁποία συνοδεύει τόν Καταστατικό Χάρτη. Αὐτή ἡ ἐπιστολή ἀποτελεῖ ἐµπνευσµένη εἰσαγωγή τοῦ Καταστατικοῦ Χάρτου καί προσφέρει πολύτιµες καί διορατικές ὁδηγίες γιά τήν σωστή κατανόησή του, καθώς καί γιά τίς πλατειές καί φωτεινές προοπτικές πού ἀνοίγονται γιά τήν Ἀρχιεπισκοπή µας µέ τήν ἐφαρµογή του. Ἐκφράζουµε µέ σεβασµό τήν εὐγνωµοσύνη µας πρός τόν Οἰκουµενικό Πατριάρχη καί τά µέλη τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου γιά τήν προσήλωσή τους στήν συνεχῆ ἀνάπτυξη τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς µας καί γιά τό γεγονός ὅτι ἀναγνωρίζουν τίς ὑπηρεσίες τίς ὁποῖες προσφέρει ἡ Ἑλληνική Ὀρθόδοξος Ἐκκλησία στήν χώρα τῆς Ἀµερικῆς καί σ’ ὁλόκληρο τόν κόσµο µέ σκοπό τήν ἀνάπτυξη καί οἰκοδοµή τοῦ Σώµατος τοῦ Χριστοῦ καί πρός δόξαν Θεοῦ. Ἐπίσης, καλοῦµε ὅλους τούς πιστούς τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς µας νά εὐχαριστήσουν τόν Θεό, ὁ Ὁποῖος µᾶς καθοδήγησε κατά τήν διάρκεια αὐτῆς τῆς διαδικασίας µέ σοφία καί ἀγάπη οἱ ὁποῖες µόνο ἄνωθεν µποροῦν νά προέρχονται καί ἁρµόζουν στούς ἀνθρώπους τοῦ Θεοῦ. Μέσῳ τοῦ θεϊκοῦ ἔργου τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύµατος µποροῦµε νά γνωρίζουµε ἀλλά καί νά ἐπιβεβαιώνουµε τήν δυνατότητά µας νά προσφέρουµε πίστη, καλή διακονία, καί ἀληθινή ζωή ἐν Χριστῷ. Εἴθε ἡ παρουσία τοῦ Μεγάλου Θεοῦ καί Σωτῆρος ἡµῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ νά συνεχίζῃ νά σᾶς ἐνισχύῃ στήν ἱερά προσφορά σας ἀγάπης καί διακονίας, καί εἴθε ὡς Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀµερικῆς νά ἀναζητοῦµε πάντοτε τρόπους γιά νά προαγάγουµε τό ἔργο τῆς Ἐκκλησίας Του µέχρι τήν µεγάλη καί ἔνδοξη Δευτέρα Παρουσία Του.

Μέ πατρική ἐν Χριστῷ ἀγάπη,

ÿ ὁ Ἀ ρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀµερικῆς Δηµήτριος Ἔξαρχος τοῦ Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου Συμβουλίου καί τῶν κληρικῶν καί λαϊκῶν ἐκπροσώπων τῶν Ἐνοριῶν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. γ. Τάς ἀποφάσεις τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως ὑποβάλλει ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος, διά τοῦ Προέδρου αὐτῆς, εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον πρός ἒγκρισιν. Εἰς περίπτωσιν καθ’ἣν δέν θά ληφθῇ ἀπάντησις ἐντός ἐνδεικτικοῦ χρόνου ἐνενήκοντα (90) ἡμερῶν ἀπό τῆς ὑποβολῆς τῶν ἀποφάσεων τούτων, αὗται θεωροῦνται ὡς ἐγκεκριμέναι. Κατόπιν τῆς ἐγκρίσεως αὐτῶν, αἱ ἀποφάσεις αὗται ἐφαρμόζονται πιστῶς καί ἀπαρεγκλίτως ὑπό πασῶν τῶν Ἐνοριῶν, ἀσχέτως ἂν τινες ἐξ αὐτῶν δέν ἀντεπροσωπεύθησαν ἢ ἐμειοψήφησαν εἰς τήν Κληρικολαϊκήν Συνέλευσιν. δ. Κανονισμός ρυθμίζει τά τῆς συγκροτήσεως, λειτουργίας καί συχνότητος τῆς συγκλήσεως τῶν Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῶν Κληρικολαϊκῶν Συνελεύσεων. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 11 – ΤΟΠΙΚΑΙ ΚΛΗΡΙΚΟΛΑΪΚΑΙ ΣΥΝΕΛΕΥΣΕΙΣ α. Παρά τῇ ἀμέσῳ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῇ περιοχῇ, καθώς καί παρ’ἑκάστῃ τῶν Μητροπόλεων, λειτουργεῖ ἰδία τοπική Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευσις, συγκαλουμένη καί προεδρευομένη ὑπό τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου καί ἀπαρτιζομένη ἐκ τῶν ἱερέων καί τῶν λαϊκῶν ἀντιπροσώπων τῶν ὑπό τήν πνευματικήν δικαιοδοσίαν τοῦ Ἱεράρχου τούτου Ἐνοριῶν καί τῶν μελῶν τοῦ Τοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου. β. Ἐξαιρουμένων τῶν δογματικῶν καί κανονικῶν ζητημάτων, αἱ ἐν λόγῳ Τοπικαί Συνελεύσεις ἐπιλαμβάνονται θεμάτων ἐχόντων σχέσιν μέ τήν ζωήν καί ἀνάπτυξιν τῆς ἀμέσου Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς καί ἑκάστης Μητροπόλεως, ἀποβλέπουσαι εἰς τήν ἑνότητα αὐτῆς, τήν ὁμοιόμορφον διοίκησιν τῶν ἐνοριῶν, τήν παιδείαν, τά οἰκονομικά προγράμματα, τήν φιλανθρωπίαν, καθώς καί τήν ἀρτιωτέραν ὀργάνωσιν καί ἀπόδοσιν τῶν Ἐνοριῶν αὐτῆς. γ. Ἑκάστη τοπική Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευσις δύναται νά προτείνῃ εἰς τήν Ἱεράν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν Ἀμερικῆς θέματα ἃτινα δύνανται νά συμπεριληφθοῦν εἰς τήν ἡμερησίαν διάταξιν τῆς ἑπομένης Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως. δ. Κανονισμός ρυθμίζει τά τῆς συγκροτήσεως, λειτουργίας καί συχνότητος συγκλήσεως τῆς τοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 12 – ΤΟΠΟΤΗΡΗΤΕΙΑΙ α. Ἐν περιπτώσει χηρείας τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς, ὁ πρῶτος τῇ τάξει τῶν μελῶν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου ἢ, τούτου κωλυομένου, ὁ ἑπόμενος τῇ τάξει, ἀναλαμβάνει ὡς Πατριαρχικός Ἐπίτροπος, τοῦ ἐξονομασμοῦ αὐτοῦ γινομένου ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριάρχου, μέχρι τῆς ἐκλογῆς τοῦ νέου Ἀρχιεπισκόπου. β. Χηρευσάσης Μητροπόλεώς τινος, ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος ὁρίζει, μετά διαγνώμην τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, ἓνα ἐκ τῶν ὁμόρων Ἱεραρχῶν ὡς Τοποτηρητήν αὐτῆς μέχρι τῆς ἐκλογῆς τοῦ διαδόχου. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 13 – ΕΚΛΟΓΗ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΟΥ α. Ἡ ἐκλογή τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ἀποτελεῖ ἀποκλειστικόν προνόμιον καί κανονικόν δικαίωμα τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. Συμβουλευτικήν γνώμην περί τοῦ προσώπου τοῦ ἐκλεγησομένου Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ἒχει καί ἡ Ἱερά Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος, ὡς καί τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον, ἣν καί ὑποβάλλουν ἐγκαίρως τῇ Ἁγίᾳ καί Ἱερᾷ Συνόδῳ τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου γραπτῶς, ἢ καί δι’ ἐπί τούτῳ ἀντιπροσωπείας, πρός ἀξιολόγησιν ταύτης δεόντως καί ἀξιοκρατικῶς. β. Ὁ ὑποψήφιος Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος πρέπει νά εἶναι πρόσωπον βαθείας πίστεως uuu

AUGUST 2003

Ἀριθµ. Πρωτ. 1048/2002 Ἱερώτατε Ἀρχιεπίσκοπε Ἀµερικῆς, ὑπέρτιµε καί ἔξαρχε Ὠκεανῶν Ἀτλαντικοῦ τε καί Εἰρηνικοῦ, ἐν Ἁγίῳ Πνεύµατι ἀγαπητέ ἀδελφέ καί συλλειτουργέ τῆς ἡµῶν Μετριότητος κύριε Δηµήτριε, χάρις εἴη τῇ ὑµετέρᾳ Ἱερότητι καί εἰρήνη παρά Θεοῦ. Μετά πολλῆς τῆς χαρᾶς διαπέµποµεν τῇ ὑµετέρᾳ ἀγαπητῇ ἡµῖν Ἱερότητι καί δἰ ὑµῶν παντί τῷ πληρώµατι τῆς καθ̓ ὑµᾶς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς τό κατόπιν µακρᾶς προεργασίας, ἐν συνεργασίᾳ τῶν ἐκπροσώπων αὐτῆς καί τῆς ἁρµοδίας Ἐπιτροπῆς τοῦ Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, καταρτισθέν καί ὑπό τῆς ἡµετέρας Μετριότητος καί τῆς περί ἡµᾶς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου ἐπικυρωθέν νέον Σύνταγµα, κατά τούς ὅρους τοῦ ὁποίου µέλλει ἐφεξῆς διοικεῖσθαι ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀµερικῆς. Τό νέον τοῦτο Σύνταγµα ἀποτελεῖ ἀναµφισβητήτως πρόοδον ἐν σχέσει πρός τό ἀπό τοῦ ἔτους ᾳϠοζ΄ ἰσχύσαν, µέλλει δέ διακονῆσαι τάς διοικητικάς ἀνάγκας τῆς καθ̓ ὑµᾶς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς ἄχρι καιροῦ καί µεταβληθῆναι ὀψέποτε αἱ ἀνάγκαι καταδείξουσι τό λυσιτελές τῆς τροποποιήσεως αὐτοῦ διά τήν πρόοδον ἐν Χριστῷ τοῦ φιλοχρίστου πληρώµατος αὐτῆς. Ἀρχαιόθεν ἔχει ἐκ πείρας βεβαιωθῆ ὅτι πᾶσαι αἱ ἀλλαγαί τῶν συνθηκῶν γίνονται ἀνεκταί καί ἀφοµοιοῦνται ὁµαλῶς ὁσάκις περιέχουν συνετήν, εὔλογον καί σταδιακήν τήν τροποποίησιν τῶν µέχρι τοῦδε ὅρων, τοῦτο δέ ἰσχύει τόσον ἐπί ζώντων ὀργανισµῶν, δυσχερῶς προσαρµοζοµένων πρός ριζικῶς διαφορετικάς νέας καταστάσεις, ὅσον καί ἐπί κοινωνικῶν ὀργανισµῶν µεγάλας ὑφισταµένων καταστροφάς ἐπί ἐπαναστατικῶν καί ρηξικελεύθων καί ἀναστατώσεις προκαλουσῶν ἀναδιαρρυθµίσεων τῶν µέχρι τοῦδε λειτουργούντων θεσµῶν. Ὅθεν, καί ἡ Μήτηρ Ἁγία τοῦ Χριστοῦ Μεγάλη Ἐκκλησία, τῇ σοφίᾳ τῶν Ἁγίων Πατέρων στοιχοῦσα καί µετά στοργῆς διά τήν ὁµαλήν µετεξέλιξιν καί πρόοδον τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς µεριµνῶσα, µετά πολλῆς µέν τῆς ἀγάπης καί τοῦ ἐνδιαφέροντος ἤκουσε καί ἐξήτασε πάσας τάς ὑπό πάντων τῶν θελησάντων ὅπως ἐκφράσουν γνώµην ἐκφρασθείσας ἀπόψεις, µετ’ ἴσης ὅµως ἀγάπης καί φροντίδος ἐπέλεξε καί υἱοθέτησε τάς ἐκ τῶν προτάσεων τούτων ἐµπεριεχούσας συνετήν, εὔλογον καί βαθµιαίαν ὑπέρβασιν τῶν ἤδη ἰσχυόντων, ἐπί τῷ τέλει τῆς ὁµαλῆς ἀνόδου τῶν βαθµίδων τούτων ὑπό παντός τοῦ πληρώµατος τῆς καθ’ ὑµᾶς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς, ἵνα, καιροῦ ἐπιστάντος καί τῆς προσαρµογῆς εἰς τάς νέας ρυθµίσεις ἐχούσης ἐπιτυχῶς ἐπιτευχθῆ, χωρήσῃ ἐν καιρῷ εἰς ἄλλας ἐνδεχοµένως περαιτέρω ἀλλαγάς, ἐάν οἱ τότε καιροί θέλουσι καταδείξει ὡς χρησίµους διά τήν εὐκταίαν περαιτέρω ἀνάπτυξιν καί ἐν Χριστῷ πρόοδον αὐτῆς. Μία τῶν καταδειχθεισῶν χρησίµων καί ἐπωφελῶν ἀλλαγῶν ὑπῆρξεν ἡ ἀναβάθµισις τῶν ὑπαγοµένων τῇ Ἱερᾷ Ἀρχιεπισκοπῇ Ἐπισκοπῶν εἰς Μητροπόλεις, συνακόλουθος οὖσα τῆς κατά τό πρόσφατον παρελθόν ἀνυψώσεως τῶν ποιµαινόντων αὐτάς Ἐπισκόπων εἰς Μητροπολίτας. Διά τῆς ἀναθέσεως τῆς διαποιµ άνσεως αὐ τῶν εἰ ς Μητροπολίτα ς κ αθισταµένους ἐν αὐ ταῖς κ αί τιτλοφορουµένους διά τοῦ ὀνόµατος αὐτῶν ἀναβαθµίζεται καί αὐτή αὕτη ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀµερικῆς ἐν τῷ συνόλῳ της, καθ’ ὅσον ἐφ’ ἑξῆς ἀποτελεσθήσεται ἐξ Ἱερῶν Μητροπόλεων καί οὐχί ἐξ Ἐπισκοπῶν, ὁ δέ ἑκάστοτε Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀµερικῆς καθίσταται Πρόεδρος Συνόδου Μητροπολιτῶν καί οὐχί ὡς µέχρι τοῦδε Ἐπισκόπων, δι ατηρῶν τό προβ άδισµ α ἔναντι τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν τῆ ς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς. Ἡ ἀνύψωσις αὕτη ἐπραγµ ατοποιήθη µέ τήν σαφῆ καί ἀναµφισβήτητον ἀντίληψιν ὅτι ἡ ἑνότης καί ἡ ἀκεραιότης τῆς Ἀρχιεπικοπῆς δέν θίγονται εἰς τό ἐλάχιστον καί ὅτι συνεχίζεται ἀπροσκόπτως ἡ ζωτική λειτουργία αὐτῆς ὡς ἑνιαίου ἐκκλησιαστικοῦ ὀργανισµοῦ ἐν Ἀµερικῇ, ἐφωδιασµένου µέ εἰδικάς, προσιδιαζούσας τῇ ἰδιότητι ταύτῃ, ἁρµοδιότητας. Ἡ ἑνότης ἄλλωστε τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς εἶναι προεχόντως πνευµατικόν γεγονός ἀπορρέον περισσότερον ἀπό τά αἰσθήµατα ἑνότητος τῶν πιστῶν µετ’ ἀλλήλων, µετά τῶν καί ἢθους, Ἑλληνορθόδοξος Χριστιανός καί πτυχιοῦχος ἀκαδημαϊκῶς ἀνεγνωρισμένης ἀνωτάτης Ὀρθοδόξου Θεολογικῆς Σχολῆς καί νά ἒχῃ τά ὑπό τῶν Ἱερῶν Κανόνων προβλεπόμενα λοιπά πρός Ἀρχιερατείαν προσόντα. Πρέπει ἐπίσης νά χειρίζεται εὐχερῶς, γραπτῶς καί προφορικῶς, τήν Ἀγγλικήν καί Ἑλληνικήν γλῶσσαν· νά εἶναι πρόσωπον κεκτημένον τήν ἀπαραίτητον ἱκανότητα περί τήν διοίκησιν καί τήν διαποίμανσιν· νά εἶναι δέ τελείως ἀφωσιωμένος εἰς τήν διατήρησιν τῆς ἑνότητος τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς καί εἰς τήν διακράτησιν τοῦ δεσμοῦ τῆς ἑνότητος μετά τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. Ἐπιπροσθέτως, πρέπει νά εἶναι οὐχί νεώτερος τῶν τεσσαράκοντα (40) ἐτῶν· νά ἒχῃ εὐδόκιμον ὑπηρεσίαν τοὐλάχιστον πέντε ἐτῶν ἐν τῇ Ἱερᾷ Ἀρχιεπισκοπῇ Ἀμερικῆς ἢ νά διαθέτῃ ἀποδεδειγμένως ἂμεσον, οὐσιαστικήν καί εὐρεῖαν γνῶσιν τῆς ἐν Ἀμερικῇ ἐκκλησιαστικῆς καταστάσεως καί ζωῆς. γ. Οἱ πληροῦντες τούς ἀνωτέρω ὃρους εἶναι ὑποψήφιοι ἀσχέτως πρός τόν τόπον τῆς διαμονῆς καί διακονίας αὐτῶν κατά τόν χρόνον τῆς ἐκλογῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 14 – ΕΚΛΟΓΗ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΙΤΟΥ α. Καθ’ἑκάστην τακτικήν σύγκλησιν τῆς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου ἐλέγχεται καί ἀναθεωρεῖται διά προσθηκῶν καί ἀφαιρέσεων ὁ κατάλογος τῶν ἐκλογίμων διά τόν βαθμόν τοῦ Μητροπολίτου, μετά συμβουλευτικήν γνώμην καί τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου. Εἰς τόν κατάλογον ἐκλογίμων διά τήν πλήρωσιν χηρευσάσης Μητροπόλεως ἐγγράφονται αὐτοδικαίως καί οἱ παρά τῷ Ἀρχιεπισκόπῳ Βοηθοί Ἐπίσκοποι. Τόν οὓτω καταρτιζόμενον κατάλογον ἡ Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος ὑποβάλλει τῷ Οἰκουμενικῷ Πατριαρχείῳ πρός ἒγκρισιν. Ἡ ἐγγραφή εἰς τόν κατάλογον ὁριστικοποιεῖται ἃμα τῇ ἐγκρίσει ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, δημοσιεύεται δέ διά τοῦ ἐπισήμου ὀργάνου τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς.

ἐκκλησιαστικῶν ποιµένων αὐτῶν καί µετά τῆς καθόλου Ἐκκλησίας τοῦ Χριστοῦ καί ὀλιγώτερον ἀπό νοµικάς διατάξεις, διό καί δέν ἐµποδίζεται οὐδ’ ἐκ τῶν ἀποστάσεων, οὐδ’ ἐκ τῆς οἱασδήποτε διοικητικῆς διαρθρώσεως τῶν θεσµῶν, µάλιστα δέ ἡ τυχόν ἐπί µόνων τῶν διοικητικῶν θεσµῶν ἐρειδοµένη ἑνότης εἶναι λίαν ἐπιφανειακή καί εὔθραυστος, ἐν ἀντιθέσει πρός τήν ἐρειδοµένην ἐπί τῆς θελήσεως καί τῆς ἑνότητος τοῦ πνεύµατος τῶν πιστῶν καί τῆς µετ’ ἀλλήλων ἀγάπης, ἡ ὁποία εἶναι ἀκλόνητος καί ἀδιάσειστος. Ἀλλά καί εἰς τό θέµα τῆς ἐκλογῆς τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου τό νέον Σύνταγµα προσφέρει πλεονεκτήµατα εἰς τό πλήρωµα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς, διότι, παρά τήν σταθεράν µακροχρόνιον πρᾶξιν, κατά τήν ὁποίαν ἡ ἐκλογή αὐτοῦ ἀποτελεῖ ἀποκλειστικόν προνόµιον τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, τό Σύνταγµα τοῦτο ἐπαναλαµβάνει κατά σαφέστερον τρόπον τήν συµβουλευτικήν συµµετοχήν εἰς τήν διαδικασίαν τῆς ἐκλογῆς (τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου) τόσον τῆς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, ὅσον καί τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συµβουλίου, ἐν ἀναφορᾷ πρός τούς ὑποψηφίους. Πρόσθετον δέ στοιχεῖον προόδου ἀποτελεῖ καί ὁ καθορισµός συγκεκριµένων προσόντων διά τό ἀξίωµα τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, ἀναφεροµένων εἰς τήν γνῶσιν ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ τῶν τοπικῶν συνθηκῶν καί καταστάσεων. Ἔκφρασιν ἰδιαιτέρας ἐµπιστοσύνης, τιµῆς καί ἀγάπης τῆς Μητρός Ἁγίας τοῦ Χριστοῦ Μεγάλης Ἐκκλησίας πρός τό πλήρωµα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς ἀποτελεῖ καί τό γεγονός ὅτι τό νέον Σύνταγµα, παρακάµπτον καθιερωµένας πρακτικάς ἰσχυούσας ἐπί ἐκλογῆς Μητροπολιτῶν, δίδει εἰς τήν Ἱεράν Ἐπαρχιακήν Σύνοδον τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς τήν προνοµίαν ὅπως, ἐν συνεργασίᾳ µετά τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συµβουλίου, προτείνῃ, ἐν περιπτώσει χηρείας µιᾶς Μητροπολιτικῆς ἕδρας, τρεῖς ὑποψηφίους, ἐκ τῶν ὁποίων ἡ Ἁγία καί Ἱερά Σύνοδος τοῦ Οἰκουµενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου θά ἐκλέξῃ τόν ἕνα. Ἐκ τῶν ἀνωτέρω καί ἐκ πολλῶν ἄλλων διατάξεων τοῦ νέου Καταστατικοῦ Χάρτου τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς προκύπτει ὅτι οὗτος προσκαλεῖ τούς κληρικούς καί λαϊκούς αὐτῆς, τούς δύο τούτους θεµελιώδεις καί οὐσιαστικούς παράγοντας τῆς Ἐκκλησίας, εἰς συνεχῆ, ἁρµονικήν καί παραγωγικήν συνεργασίαν ἐπί ὅλων τῶν ἐπιπέδων καί δραστηριοτήτων τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς, ἐντός τῶν πλαισίων τῆς κανονικῆς παραδόσεως τῆς Ἁγίας Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας ἡµῶν, διότι µόνον διά τῆς ὁµονοίας καί συνεργασίας ἐπιτυγχάνονται ὅλοι οἱ λοιποί ἀγαθοί στόχοι καί σκοποί τῶν µελῶν τῆς Ἐκκλησίας. Ἐφ” ᾧ καί ἀποστέλλοµεν ὑµῖν καί τοῖς πιστοῖς ἐπ’ ἐλπίσιν ἀγαθαῖς τό Συνοδικῶς κεκυρωµένον κείµενον τοῦ νέου Συντάγµατος πρός ἄµεσον ἐφαρµογήν, µετά τῶν Πατριαρχικῶν καί Συνοδικῶν Πράξεων ἀναβαθµίσεως τῶν Ἱερῶν Ἐπικοπῶν τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς εἰς Μητροπόλεις αὐτῆς, εὐχόµενοι ἅµα ὅπως διέλθητε ὑµεῖς τε καί ὁ περί ὑµᾶς κλῆρος καί λαός µετά πάσης χαρᾶς, εἰρήνης καί θείας εὐλογίας τόν νέον ἐνιαυτόν τοῦ Κυρίου καί ὅπως οὗτος κοµίσῃ ὑµῖν τε καί πάσῃ τῇ ἀνθρωπότητι πρῶτον µέν τήν ἐπίγνωσιν τοῦ Θεοῦ καί τοῦ ὑπ’ Αὐτοῦ ἀποσταλέντος καί ἐνανθρωπήσαντος καί ἐν τῷ σπηλαίῳ τῆς Βηθλεέµ γεννηθέντος Λόγου Αὐτοῦ καί Σωτῆρος τοῦ κόσµου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, δεύτερον δέ τήν ἐπί γῆς εἰρήνην καί τήν ἀπόλαυσιν τῆς θείας εὐδοκίας παρά πάντων ἀνθρώπων. Ἐπί δέ τούτοις, ἐπιδαψιλεύοµεν παντί τῷ πληρώµατι τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς ὁλόθυµον τήν πατρικήν ἡµῶν εὐχήν καί τήν Πατριαρχικήν ἡµῶν εὐλογίαν. βͺ γ΄ Ἰανουαρίου ιη΄

β. Ἃμα τῇ χηρείᾳ Μητροπόλεώς τινος ἡ Ἐπαρχιακή Σύνοδος, τό βραδύτερον ἐντός τεσσαράκοντα (40) ἡμερῶν, τῇ ἐγκαίρῳ προσκλήσει τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, συνέρχεται διά τόν καταρτισμόν, κατόπιν διαγνώμης καί τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου, τοῦ τριπροσώπου διά τήν πλήρωσιν τῆς κενῆς Μητροπολιτικῆς ἓδρας, τῶν προτεινομένων ὑποψηφίων λαμβανομένων ἐκ τοῦ ἀνωτέρω καταλόγου τῶν ἐκλογίμων διά τόν Ἐπισκοπικόν βαθμόν, τηρουμένης τῆς ὑπό τοῦ Κανονισμοῦ λειτουργίας τῆς Ἱ. Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου προβλεπομένης διαδικασίας. γ. Τό τριπρόσωπον ὑποβάλλεται εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον, ἡ δέ Ἁγία καί Ἱερά Σύνοδος ἐκλέγει κατά τά κεκανονισμένα ἓνα ἐκ τῶν τριῶν ὡς Μητροπολίτην. δ. Οἱ ὑποψήφιοι πρέπει νά εἶναι πρόσωπα βαθείας πίστεως καί ἢθους Ἑλληνορθόδοξοι Χριστιανοί, νά εἶναι πτυχιοῦχοι ἀκαδημαϊκῶς ἀνεγνωρισμένης ἀνωτάτης Ὀρθοδόξου Θεολογικῆς Σχολῆς, νά χειρίζωνται εὐχερῶς, γραπτῶς καί προφορικῶς, τήν Ἀγγλικήν καί Ἑλληνικήν γλῶσσαν καί νά ἒχουν ἀποδεδειγμένην ἱκανότητα περί τήν διοίκησιν καί διαποίμανσιν. Ἐπιπροσθέτως, οἱ ὑποψήφιοι δέον νά κέκτηνται πάντα τά ὑπό τῶν ἱερῶν Κανόνων ὁριζόμενα προσόντα· νά εἶναι οὐχί νεώτεροι τῶν τριάκοντα πέντε (35) ἐτῶν καί νά ἒχουν ἐν τῇ Ἱερᾷ Ἀρχιεπισκοπῇ Ἀμερικῆς ἐπαρκῆ ὑπηρεσίαν. ε. Οἱ πληροῦντες τούς ἀνωτέρω ὃρους εἶναι ὑποψήφιοι καί περιλαμβάνονται εἰς τόν κατάλογον τῶν ἐκλογίμων, ἀσχέτως πρός τόν τόπον τῆς διαμονῆς καί διακονίας αὐτῶν κατά τόν χρόνον τῆς ἐκλογῆς. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 15 – ΕΚΛΟΓΗ ΒΟΗΘΩΝ ΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΩΝ α. Διά τήν ἐκλογήν Βοηθῶν Ἐπισκόπων ἀκολουθεῖται ἡ ὡς ἂνω διαδικασία

u óåë. 20

óåë.19

ἐκλογῆς Μητροπολιτῶν (ἂρθρον 14). β. Ἐπί τούτῳ περί τῶν Βοηθῶν Ἐπισκόπων Κανονισμός καταρτίζεται ὑπό τῆς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί τίθεται ἐν ἰσχύϊ μετά τήν ἒγκρισίν του ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 16 – ΔΙΟΡΙΣΜΟΙ ΚΑΙ ΜΕΤΑΘΕΣΕΙΣ ΚΛΗΡΙΚΩΝ α. Ὁ διορισμός καί ἡ μετάθεσις κληρικῶν ἐντός τῶν ὁρίων τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς ἢ ἑκάστης Μητροπόλεως ἀποτελεῖ ἀποκλειστικήν ἁρμοδιότητα καί δικαίωμα τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου. β. Ἡ ἀρχική τοποθέτησις κληρικοῦ τινος γίνεται ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ἐν συνεννοήσει μετά τοῦ Μητροπολίτου, εἰς τήν Μητροπολιτικήν περιφέρειαν τοῦ ὁποίου προτείνεται νά τοποθετηθῇ οὗτος. Ὁ διορισμός γίνεται παρά τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ἢ τοῦ Μητροπολίτου, εἰς τήν Ἀρχιεπισκοπικήν περιοχήν ἢ τήν Μητρόπολιν τοῦ ὁποίου τοποθετεῖται ὁ κληρικός. γ. Ἡ μετάθεσις κληρικῶν μεταξύ Μητροπόλεων ἀνάγεται εἰς τήν ἁρμοδιότητα τῶν δύο ἐνδιαφερομένων Ἱεραρχῶν. Οὗτοι πραγματοποιοῦν τήν οἱανδήποτε μετάθεσιν ἐπί τῇ βάσει τῶν ἰσχυουσῶν ἐκκλησιαστικῶν διατάξεων καί κοινοποιοῦν αὐτήν εἰς τήν Ἱεράν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν Ἀμερικῆς, πρός ἐνημέρωσιν καί διά τά κατ’αὐτήν. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 17 – ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΙΚΟΝ ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΙΟΝ α. Τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον συγκροτεῖται ἐκ τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου ὡς Προέδρου, τῶν Μητροπολιτῶν, τῶν Βοηθῶν Ἐπισκόπων καί ἐξ ἀντιπροσωπειῶν ἐκ κληρικῶν καί λαϊκῶν ἐκ τῶν ἐνοριῶν τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς καί ἑκάστης Μητροπόλεως, ὡς μελῶν. β. Συγκαλεῖται τοῦτο ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκόπου, τακτικῶς τοὐλάχιστον δίς τοῦ ἒτους καί ἐκτάκτως ὁσάκις κρίνεται ἀναγκαῖον. γ. Ἐξαιρουμένων τῶν δογματικῶν καί κανονικῶν ζητημάτων, τά ὁποῖα ἀνήκουν εἰς τήν ἁρμοδιότητα τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον ἀσχολεῖται μέ θέματα καί ζητήματα ἀφορῶντα εἰς τήν ζωήν, ἀνάπτυξιν καί ἑνότητα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς καί λαμβάνει τάς ἀναγκαιούσας ἐπ’ αὐτῶν ἀποφάσεις. Τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον λειτουργεῖ ὡς συμβουλευτικόν καί γνωμοδοτικόν σῶμα διά τόν Ἀρχιεπίσκοπον καί τήν Ἱ. Ἐπαρχιακήν Σύνοδον. δ. Τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον ἒχει ὡς μέλημα αὐτοῦ τάς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικάς Διακονίας, τά Ἱδρύματα καί τάς οἰκονομικάς ὑποθέσεις τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. Ὁμοῦ μετά τῆς Ἱ. Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου μεριμνᾷ διά τήν ἑρμηνείαν καί ἐφαρμογήν τῶν ἀποφάσεων τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως, καθώς καί τῶν συμφώνως τῷ Συντάγματι τούτῳ ἐκδιδομένων Κανονισμῶν ἐπί θεμάτων τῆς ἁρμοδιότητός του. Τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον ἒχει τάς εὐθύνας καί τά καθήκοντα τά καθοριζόμενα ὑπό τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος, καθώς καί τά προβλεπόμενα ὑπό τῶν ἐν γένει Κανονισμῶν τῶν εἰς αὐτό ἀναφερομένων. ε. Εἰς περίπτωσιν ἀνάγκης λήψεως ἀποφάσεως μεταξύ δύο Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῶν Κληρικολαϊκῶν Συνελεύσεων τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον ἀσκεῖ ἐξουσίαν Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως, ἐφ’ ὃσον ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος συγκαλεῖ τοῦτο διά τόν σκοπόν αὐτόν, ὃστις καί γνωστοποιεῖται διά προσκλήσεως. ς. Εἰδικός Κανονισμός ρυθμίζει τά τῆς συνθέσεως, λειτουργίας, ἁρμοδιότητος καί συγκλήσεως τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 18 – ΤΟΠΙΚΑ ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΙΑ α. Τό Τοπικόν Συμβούλιον τῆς ἀμέσου Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς περιοχῆς καθώς καί ἑκάστης Μητροπόλεως εἶναι τό συμβουλευτικόν καί γνωμοδοτικόν σῶμα τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου. Ἀσχολεῖται μέ θέματα καί προβλήματα ἀφορῶντα εἰς τήν ἑνότητα, ζωήν καί ἀνάπτυξιν τῆς οἰκείας ἐκκλησιαστικῆς περιφερείας, ἐξαιρουμένων τῶν δογματικῶν καί κανονικῶν ζητημάτων, συγκροτεῖται δέ ἐκ τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου ὡς Προέδρου καί ἀντιπροσωπείας ἐκ κληρικῶν καί λαϊκῶν τῆς κατ’ αὐτόν περιφερείας, ὡς μελῶν. β. Τό τοπικόν τοῦτο Συμβούλιον συγκαλεῖται γενικῶς μέν τοὐλάχιστον δίς τοῦ ἒτους, εἰδικῶς δέ ὁσάκις τοῦτο κρίνεται ἀναγκαῖον παρά τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου. γ. Ἒχει ὡς μέλημα τάς Διακονίας, τά Ἱδρύματα, τά προγράμματα καί τάς οἰκονομικάς ὑποθέσεις τῆς Μητροπόλεως. Ἒχει τά καθήκοντα, τάς εὐθύνας καί τάς ἁρμοδιότητας τάς ὑπό τοῦ περί αὐτοῦ Κανονισμοῦ προβλεπομένας. δ. Εἰδικός Κανονισμός ρυθμίζει τά τῆς συνθέσεως, λειτουργίας, ἁρμοδιότητος καί συγκλήσεως τοῦ Συμβουλίου τούτου. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 19 – ΠΑΙΔΕΙΑ α. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς, κατά τάς ἑκάστοτε ἀνάγκας, ἱδρύει καί ἐποπτεύει ἐκπαιδευτικά ἱδρύματα θρησκευτικῆς καί θύραθεν, κατηχητικῆς καί ἑλληνικῆς παιδείας, ὡς ἡ Θεολογική Σχολή τοῦ Τιμίου Σταυροῦ καί τό Ἑλληνικόν Κολλέγιον. β. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς ἐπίσης καταρτίζει εἰδικά προγράμματα διά τήν κάλυψιν τῶν ἑκάστοτε παρουσιαζομένων ἐκπαιδευτικῶν, κατηχητικῶν, πολιτιστικῶν καί ἂλλων ἀναγκῶν. γ. Ἡ Ἱερά Ἀρχιεπισκοπή Ἀμερικῆς δημοσιεύει θρησκευτικά καί ἂλλα ἐκπαιδευτικά βιβλία καί ἒντυπα πρός ἐκπλήρωσιν τῆς ἀποστολῆς αὐτῆς. δ. Ἐπί τούτῳ Κανονισμοί διέπουν τήν ἳδρυσιν καί τήν λειτουργίαν τῶν ἀναγκαιούντων ἐκπαιδευτικῶν ἱδρυμάτων καί τόν καταρτισμόν τῶν προγραμμάτων. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 20 – ΔΙΑΚΟΝΙΑΙ ΚΑΙ ΙΔΡΥΜΑΤΑ α. Πάντα τά ὑπάρχοντα ἢ τυχόν συσταθησόμενα Ἱδρύματα, ὣς τε περιουσία καί ὡς εὐθύνη, ἀνήκουν τά μέν μείζονα (ἂρθρον 17, παρ. δ) εἰς τήν Ἱεράν Ἀρχιεπισκοπήν Ἀμερικῆς, τά δέ τοπικώτερα κατά ἐκκλησιαστικάς περιφερείας (ἂρθρον 18, παρ. γ) εἰς τήν οἰκείαν Μητροπολιτικήν Διοίκησιν. β. Διά τήν ἳδρυσιν νέων Ἱδρυμάτων, συμπεριλαμβανομένων τῶν ἐκπαιδευτικῶν, ψυχαγωγικῶν, εὐαγῶν, οἲκων εὐγηρίας καί λοιπῶν, ὡς καί διά τήν διάλυσιν ἑνός ἑκάστου τῶν ὑπαρχόντων, ἀπαιτεῖται ἡ ἒγκρισις τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί ἡ συναίνεσις τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου ἢ τοῦ Τοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου ἀναλόγως πρός τήν περίπτωσιν. γ. Ἡ λειτουργία τῶν Ἱδρυμάτων τούτων γίνεται ἐπί τῇ βάσει Κανονισμῶν.

AUGUST 2003

ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 21 – ΙΕΡΑΙ ΜΟΝΑΙ α. Αἱ Μοναί καί ὁ ὠργανωμένος μοναχισμός λειτουργοῦν κατά τήν μακραίωνα κανονικήν παράδοσιν καί πρᾶξιν τῆς Ἐκκλησίας. Εἶναι ἐκκλησιαστικά ἱδρύματα, λειτουργοῦντα ὑπό τήν ἂμεσον δικαιοδοσίαν καί ἐπιτήρησιν τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου. β. Αἱ Ἱεραί Μοναί ἱδρύονται ὑπό τοῦ οἰκείου Ἱεράρχου κατόπιν ἐγκρίσεως τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου. Αἱ διοικητικαί καί διαχειριστικαί ὑποθέσεις τῶν Ἱερῶν Μονῶν ὑπόκεινται κανονικῶς εἰς τήν εὐθύνην τοῦ ἐπιτοπίου Ἱεράρχου, οὗτινος τό ὂνομα μνημονεύεται κατά τάς ἱεράς ἀκολουθίας. γ. Αἱ ἐν Ἀμερικῇ λειτουργοῦσαι Ἱεραί Μοναί συνεχίζουν τήν μακραίωνα μοναστικήν ζωήν καί μαρτυρίαν, λειτουργοῦν δέ κατά τό ἰσχῦον Μοναστηριακόν Δίκαιον καί κατά τό γράμμα καί τό πνεῦμα τῶν καταρτισθησομένων Κανονισμῶν λειτουργίας αὐτῶν. δ. Κανονισμοί, ἀφορῶντες εἰς τήν ἳδρυσιν, ὀργάνωσιν καί λειτουργίαν τῶν Ἱερῶν Μονῶν καταρτίζονται παρά τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί ἐγκρίνονται ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 22 – ΚΑΝΟΝΙΣΜΟΙ α. Πάντες οἱ Κανονισμοί, οἱ ἀφορῶντες εἰς τήν ἐφαρμογήν τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος, ὀφείλουν νά εὑρίσκωνται ἐν συμφωνίᾳ πρός τούς Ἱερούς Κανόνας, τήν παράδοσιν καί τήν μακραίωνα ζωήν καί πρᾶξιν τῆς Ἁγίας Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας, ὡς αὓτη διεμορφώθη εἰς τά πλαίσια τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου, καί πρός τό γράμμα καί τό πνεῦμα τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος. β. Οἱ Κανονισμοί διά τήν ἐφαρμογήν τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος καταρτίζονται, ἐγκρίνονται καί ἐπικυροῦνται ὡς ἀκολούθως: 1. Οἱ Κανονισμοί, οἱ ἀφορῶντες εἰς τήν λειτουργίαν τῆς Ἱ. Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου, τῶν Πνευματικῶν Δικαστηρίων καί τῶν Μονῶν, καταρτίζονται ὑπό τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου καί ἐγκρίνονται ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου. 2. Οἱ Κανονισμοί, οἱ ἀφορῶντες εἰς μέν τήν σύνθεσιν τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου καί τῶν Μητροπολιτικῶν Συμβουλίων καταρτίζονται ὑπό τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως, οἱ δέ ἀφορῶντες εἰς τήν λειτουργίαν τῶν σωμάτων τούτων ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου. 3. Πάντες οἱ λοιποί Κανονισμοί, συμπεριλαμβανομένων τῶν ἀφορώντων εἰς τήν σύνθεσιν καί λειτουργίαν τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως, τῶν τοπικῶν Κληρικολαϊκῶν Συνελεύσεων καί τῶν Ἐνοριῶν συνόλης τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς, προτείνονται ὑπό τοῦ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικοῦ Συμβουλίου καί καταρτίζονται καί ἐγκρίνονται ὑπό τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεως. 4. Πάντες οἱ Κανονισμοί, οἱ ἀναφερόμενοι εἰς τάς ὡς ἂνω παραγράφους 2 καί 3, καί γενικῶς πάντες οἱ προβλεπόμενοι ὑπό τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος Κανονισμοί, ὑποβάλλονται παρά τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου διά τοῦ Προέδρου αὐτῆς τῷ Οἰκουμενικῷ Πατριαρχείῳ πρός τελικήν θεώρησιν καί ἒγκρισιν. Εἰς περίπτωσιν κατά τήν ὁποίαν δέν θά ληφθῇ ἀπάντησις ἐκ τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ἐντός ἐνδεικτικῆς προθεσμίας ἐνενήκοντα (90) ἡμερῶν ἀπό τῆς λήψεως τῶν Κανονισμῶν εἰς αὐτό, οἱ Κανονισμοί θεωροῦνται ὡς ἐγκεκριμένοι. γ. Μέχρι τῆς ἐγκρίσεως καί ἐπικυρώσεως τῶν ὑπό τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος προβλεπομένων Κανονισμῶν ἰσχύουν οἱ νῦν ὑφιστάμενοι τοιοῦτοι. Εἰς περίπτωσιν ὃμως διαφορᾶς (μεταξύ αὐτῶν καί τοῦ παρόντος) ὑπερισχύουν αἱ διατάξεις τοῦ παρόντος Συντάγματος. δ. Τό παρόν Σύνταγμα καί πάντες οἱ προβλεπόμενοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ Κανονισμοί δημοσιεύονται τῇ εὐθύνῃ τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς. ε. Τό Ἀρχιεπισκοπικόν Συμβούλιον ἑρμηνεύει πάντας τούς Κανονισμούς, ἐξαιρουμένων τῶν κατά τά ἂρθρα 5, 9 καί 21 ἐγκρινομένων καί ἐπικυρουμένων. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 23 – ΓΛΩΣΣΑ ΚΑΙ ΑΥΘΕΝΤΙΚΟΝ ΚΕΙΜΕΝΟΝ Τό παρόν Σύνταγμα καί οἱ εἰς αὐτό ἀναφερόμενοι Κανονισμοί συντάσσονται εἰς τήν Ἑλληνικήν καί τήν Ἀγγλικήν γλῶσσαν. Νομικῶς ἰσχύον κείμενον εἶναι τό ἐγκεκριμένον ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου ἀγγλικόν. Παρουσιαζομένης ἀνάγκης τό Σύνταγμα ἑρμηνεύει αὐθεντικῶς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 24 – ΕΦΑΡΜΟΓΗ ΤΟΥ ΣΥΝΤΑΓΜΑΤΟΣ Τό παρόν Σύνταγμα χορηγεῖται ὑπό τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Πατριαρχείου τῇ Ἱερᾷ Ἀρχιεπισκοπῇ Ἀμερικῆς καί τίθεται εἰς ἂμεσον ἐφαρμογήν. ΑΡΘΡΟΝ 25 – ΑΝΑΘΕΩΡΗΣΙΣ ΤΟΥ ΣΥΝΤΑΓΜΑΤΟΣ Τό παρόν Σύνταγμα, ρυθμίζον τά τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀμερικῆς ὡς ἐκκλησιαστικοῦ θεσμοῦ, δύναται νά τροποποιηθῇ ἐν τῷ συνόλῳ ἢ ἐν τοῖς ἐπί μέρους αὐτοῦ κατόπιν εἰσηγήσεως τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου εἰς τό Οἰκουμενικόν Πατριαρχεῖον μετά τήν δέουσαν διεργασίαν παρά τῷ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῷ Συμβουλίῳ καί τῇ Ἀρχιεπισκοπικῇ Κληρικολαϊκῇ Συνελεύσει, μετ’ ἀπόφασιν τῆς Ἁγίας καί Ἱερᾶς Συνόδου τοῦ Οἰκουμενικοῦ Θρόνου, εἰς ἣν ἡ εἰσήγησις ὑποβάλλεται. Ἐν ἒτει σωτηρίῳ βͺγ΄ κατά μῆνα Ἰανουάριον, τῇ ιη΄ αὐτοῦ, Ἐπινεμήσεως ΙΑ΄ ÿ Ὁ Κωνσταντινουπόλεως Βαρθολομαῖος ἀποφαίνεται ÿ ὁ Ἐφέσου κ. Χρυσόστομος ÿ ὁ Ἡρακλείας κ. Φώτιος ÿ ὁ Δέρκων κ. Κωνσταντῖνος ÿ ὁ Θεοδωρουπόλεως κ. Γερμανός ÿ ὁ Μετρῶν καί Ἀθύρων κ. Θεόκλητος ÿ ὁ Ἴμβρου και Τενέδου κ. Κύριλλος ÿ ὁ Πριγκηποννήσων κ. Ἰάκωβος ÿ ὁ Σεβαστείας κ. Δημήτριος ÿ ὁ Μυριοφύτου καί Περιστάσεως κ. Εἰρηναῖος ÿ ὁ Μύρων κ. Χρυσόστομος ÿ ὁ Μοσχονησίων κ. Ἀπόστολος ÿ ὁ Ἰκονίου κ. Θεόληπτος

ΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΣ 2003

ΕΤΟΣ 68 • ΑΡΙΘΜΟΣ 1202

ΠΑΤΡΙΑΡΧΙΚΗ ΑΝΤΙΠΡΟΣΩΠΕΙΑ ΥΠΟ ΤΟΝ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΟ ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟ ΣΤΟ ΒΑΤΙΚΑΝΟ ΒΑΤΙΚΑΝΟ.– Με τα λόγια «Δόξα τη Αγία και ζωοποιώ και αδιαιρέτω Τριάδι, τω Πατρί και τω Υιώ και τω Αγίω Πνεύματι...» στα Ελληνικά, τα οποία και επανέλαβε αμέσως μετά και στα Αγγλικά ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος άρχισε την προσφώνησή του προς ôïõ Óôáýñïõ Ç. Ðáðáãåñìáíïý

τον Πάπα Ιωάννη Παύλο τον Β΄ και τις χιλιάδες κόσμου που είχε συγκεντρωθεί το απόγευμα της 29ης Ιουνίου, στην πλατεία του Αγίου Πέτρου για την θρονική εορτή της Εκκλησίας της Ρώμης. Η ομιλία του Αρχιεπισκόπου έγινε δεκτή με ενθουσιασμό και παρατεταμένα χειροκροτήματα από τον κόσμο ενώ προκάλεσε τα εγκωμιαστικά σχόλια πολλών επισήμων προσκεκλημένων και διπλωματών που παρευρέθηκαν στους εορτασμούς. Η τετραήμερη επίσκεψη της αντιπροσωπείας του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου Κωνσ ταντ ινουπόλ εως σ το Βατικανό ολοκληρώθηκε με επιτυχία

Ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος προσφωνεί τον Πάπα Παύλο Ιωάννη τον Β΄ κατά την διάρκεια ιδαίτερης ακρόασης. Τα λοιπά μέλη της Πατριαρχικής Αντιπροσωπείας· ο Θεοφ. Επίσκοπος Ναζιανζού κ. Θεοδώρητος, ο Μέγας Αρχιμανδρίτης του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου κ. Αθηναγόρας και ο διάκονος Παντελεήμων.

Τιμή και προσκύνηση στην Παναγία

Ο Αύγουστος είναι ο μήνας της Παναγίας. Τις περισσότερες ημέρες του, η αρχ ή, το μέσο και το τέλος του, ανήκουν αποκ λειστικά σ’ Αυτή. Οι παρακλήσεις, μια από τις πιο αγαπημένες ακολουθίες –τ ις δέκα πέντε πρώτες του μέρες– ανήκουν σ’ Αυτή. Και πάντα στις ακολουθίες, με τις οποίες «αι γενεαί αι πάσαι μακαρίζομεν την μόνην Θεοτόκον» η γνωστή, η πασίγνωστη περικοπή της πορείας προς την ορεινήν, όπου το πρώτον θα ακούσει να τ ην αναγ νωρίζουν ως Μητέρα του Κυρίου. Το Μυστήριο του χαροποιού θανάτου της Παναγίας «συνστελ λόμενοι φόβω» ερμήνευσαν και σχολίασαν οι ιεροί της Εκκλησίας μας Πατέρες σε βαθυστόχαστα εγκώμια και θεολογικές ομιλίες. Οι ιεροί υμνογράφοι με καλλιέπεια και μέτρο πρόσφεραν στο λαό τα υψηλά του νοήματα με μορφή ύμνων που διαπνέονται από γνήσια θρησκευτική κατάνυξη, αντάξια της Θείας Μορφής της. Χαρμόσυνες κι ειρηνοφόρες αντηχούν οι καμπάνες επάνω απ’ τις στεριές και τις θάλασσες καθώς γλυκοχαράζει της Παναγιάς η μέρα. Ήχοι θρησκευτικοί και πράοι, ήχοι δοξαστικοί, που διαλύουν τα σύννεφα της απιστίας, της άρνησης και της αμφιβολίας των καταλυτικών καιρών μας και υπενθυμίζουν τη χαρά της λυτρώσεως του ανθρώπου από το Χριστό. Γενικά ολόκληρη η ορθόδοξη πνευματικότητα, όταν αναφέρεται στην Παναγία, δεν κάνει τίποτα άλλο παρά να φανερώνει και να ερμηνεύει το μυστήριο της ενανθρωπίσεως του Κυρίου. Γι’ αυτό και η λειτουργική παράδοση της Εκκλησίας μας το πρώτο δεκαπεν-

u óåë. 22

Εικόνα «Επί σοί χαίρει», τέμπερα, 16ος αιώνας, Ι. Μονή Αγ. Αικατερίνης Όρους Σινά.

την 1η Ιουλίου, πραγματοποιήθηκε επ’ ευκαιρία τ ης θρονικής εορτ ής τ ης Ρωμαιοκαθολικής Εκκλησίας των Αγίων Αποστόλων Πέτρου και Παύλου και στα πλαίσια της ανταλλαγής επισκέψεων στις θρονικές εορτές των δύο Εκκλησιών που καθιερώθηκαν από εποχής του Πατριάρχη Αθηναγόρα. Η Αντιπροσωπεία υπό την ηγεσία του Σεβασμιωτάτου Αρχιεπισκόπου Αμερικής κ. Δημητρίου και μέλη τον Θεοφιλέστατο Επίσκοπο Ναζιανζού κ. Θεοδώρητο, βοηθό επίσκοπο της Αρχιεπισκοπής Θυατείρων και Μεγάλης Βρετανίας και τον Μέγα Αρχιμανδρίτη του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου κ. Αθηναγόρα, είχε την ευκαιρία στις 28 Ιουνίου να συναντηθεί κατ’ ιδίαν με τον Πάπα Ιωάννη Παύλο τον Β΄ ο οποίος και παρέθεσε γεύμα προς τιμήν της. Την ίδια μέρα η αντιπροσωπεία παρακολούθησε τον επίσημο εσπερινό της παραμονής στην μεγα λοπρεπή Βασιλική του Αποστόλου Πέτρου στο

u óåë. 24

Το νέο Σύνταγμα της Ιεράς Αρχιεπισκοπής ΝΕΑ ΥΟΡΚΗ. – Το επίσημο κείμενο του νέου Καταστατικού Χάρτη της Ιεράς Αρχιεπισκοπής Αμερικής στην Αγγλική και Ελληνική γλώσσα δημοσιεύεται στις σελίδες 13-20 του Ορθοδόξου Παρατηρητή. Παράλληλα δημοσιεύεται η συνοδευτική επιστολή της Α.Θ.Π. του Οικουμενικού Πατριάρχου Βαρθολομαίου προς τον Αρχιεπίσκοπο Δημήτριο επί τη εγκρίσει του Καταστατικού Χάρτου από την Αγία και Ιερά Σύνοδο του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου στις 18 Ιανουαρίου 2003 καθώς και η συνοδευτική επιστολή του Σεβασμιωτάτου Αρχιεπισκόπου Αμερικής κ. Δημητρίου προς τον Κλήρο, τα Ενοριακά Συμβούλια και τους πιστούς των εν Αμερική Ελληνορθόδοξων Κοινοτήτων. Η δημοσίευση του Καταστατικού Χάρτη της Ι. Αρχιεπισκοπής γίνεται μετά την ολοκλήρωση της μετάφρασης εις την Αγγλικήν του πρωτοτύπου Ελληνικού κειμένου το οποίο ενεκρίθη από την Σύνοδο του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου. Ο Καταστατικός Χάρτης και οι συνοδευτικές επιστολές θα κυκλοφορήσουν σε έντυπο που θα διανεμηθεί στις Κοινότητες εντός του μηνός Αυγούστου. Ο Καταστατικός Χάρτης και όλα τα παραπάνω κείμενα δημοσιεύονται επίσης στις διαδικτυακές σελίδες της Αρχιεπικοπής σ τ ην διεύθυνσ η ht tp://w w w. goarch.org/en/archdiocese/ documents/charter_index.asp

ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ

ΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΣ 2003

Μνημόσυνο για τα 29 χρόνια από την Τουρκική εισβολή Τιμή στην Παναγία ΝΕΑ ΥΟΡΚΗ. – Με την συμπλήρωση 29 χρόνων από την ημέρα της Τουρκικής εισβολής του Αττίλα στην Κύπρο, στις 20 Ιουλίου του 1974, οι Κυπριακές οργανώσεις σε όλο τον κόσμο οργάνωσαν εκδηλώσεις μνήμης και τιμής που φέτος χαρακτηρίστηκαν από ιδιαίτερη αισιοδοξία λόγω της επικείμενης επίσημης ένταξης της Κύπρου στην Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση. Ανήμερα της επετείου Κυριακή 20 Ιουλίου ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος προέστη της Θείας Λειτουργίας στον Καθεδρικό Ναό του Αγίου Δημητρίου στην Αστόρια και ετέλεσε μνημόσυνο για τους πεσόντες στην Κύπρο το 1974. Την πρωτοβουλία των εκδηλώσεων στην Νέα Υόρκη είχαν η Κυπριακή Ομοσπονδία Αμερικής και Παγκόσμια Συντονιστική Επιτροπή Κυπριακού Αγώνα (ΠΣΕΚΑ). Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος στην ομιλία του προς το εκκλησίασμα πριν την τέλεση του μνημοσύνου αναφερόμενος στην εποχή του Προφήτου Ηλία, του οποίου την μνήμη η Εκκλησία μας τιμά και εορτάζει στις 20 Ιουλίου, σημείωσε τον παραλληλισμό του αγώνα του Κυπριακού Ελ ληνισμού με την άφρονη εποχή στην οποία έζησε ο Προφήτης Ηλίας, τον ανέλπιδο αγώνα του ενάντια στον Βαάλ και τους ψευδοπροφήτες και την τελική επικράτηση της αλήθειας και του αληθινού Θεού.

u óåë. 21 θήμερο του Αυγούστου έχει ξεχωριστή θέση στην ορθόδοξη πνευματικότητα. Η Υπεραγία Θεοτόκος είναι κορυφαίο πρόσωπο σε κάθε λατρευτική σύναξη του πληρώματος της Εκκλησίας μας, ύστερα από την Τριαδική Θεότητα. Η ιερή Της μορφή επικεντρώνει καθημερινά την ολόθερμη καρδιακή αγωνία του λαού του Θεού. Δέχεται την Μητέρα του Θεού δική Του Μητέρα, αφού είναι η ατίμητη σάρκα από την δική της σάρκα. Ένα «κομμάτι» ελπίδας, που φυτεύθηκε στον Ουρανό για να «πρεσβεύει» και να «συντρέχει» υπέρ της σωτηρίας όλων εκείνων, που υπάρχουν, κινούνται και παλεύουν μέσα στο φοβερό «κλυδώνιο» της εγκόσμιας πραγματικότητας. ETA PRESS

Διακήρυξη για την 20η Ιουλίου – Ημέρα αγώνα για δικαιοσύνη στην Κύπρο, επιδίδει στον Αρχιεπίσκοπο Δημήτριο και τους άλλους αξιωματούχους ο κυβερνήτης της Νέας Υόρκης Τζορτζ Πατάκι (κέντρο). Τους πλαισιώνουν (από αριστερά) Πίτερ Πάπας– πρόεδρος του Κυπριακού Ταμείου Υποτροφιών, Απόστολος Τομόπουλος–πρόεδρος της Ομοσπονδίας Ελληνικών Σωματείων Μείζονος Νέας Υόρκης, ο γενικός πρόξενος της Ελλάδος Δημήτρης Πλατής, η γενική πρόξενος της Κύπρου Μάρθα Μαυρομάτη, ο Πανίκος Παπανικολάου–πρόεδρος της Κυπριακής Ομοσπονδίας Αμερικής, ο Φίλιππος Κρίστοφερ–πρόεδρος της ΠΣΕΚΑ και ο Ανδρέας Κομωδρόμος–εκπρόσωπος του ΣΑΕ.

“ΤΟ ΔΙΚΑIΩΜΑ ΤΗΣ ΚYΠΡΟΥ ΓΙΑ ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΔΙΚΑΙΟΣYΝΗ, ΤΗΣ EΧΕΙ ΔΟΘΕI ΑΠO ΤΟΝ ΘΕO” Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος

Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος εξέφρασε την πίστη του ότι και στο Κυπριακό θα γίνει τελικά αυτό που είναι δίκαιο και αντιπροσωπεύει την αλήθεια και «η Κύπρος θα αποκτήσει και πάλι σύντομα αυτό που δικαιούται να έχει διότι της έχει δοθεί από τον Θεό: την ελευθερία της, το δικαίωμα για μια ελεύθερη ζωή και δικαιοσύνη...» Καταλήγοντας δε ο Σεβασμιώτατος τόνισε: «το κυρίαρχο αίσθημα που πρέπει να διακατέχει σήμερα όλους μας είναι η βεβαιότητα για την δίκαιη τελική έκβαση του Κυπριακού». Παρευρέθηκαν οι διπλωματικές αρχές της Κύπρου και της Ελλάδος, η πρέσβειρα της Κύπρου στις ΗΠΑ κ. Ερατώ Κοζάκου-Μαρκουλλή, η γενική πρόξενος της Κύπρου στην Νέα Υόρκη κ. Μάρθα Μαυρομάτη, ο γενικός πρόξενος της Ελλάδος στην Νέα Υόρκη κ. Δημήτρης Πλατής, ο πρόεδρος της Κυπριακής Ομοσπονδίας Αμερικής κ. Πανίκος Παπανικολάου και ο πρόεδρος της Παγκόσμιας Συντονιστικής Επιτροπής Κυπριακού Αγώνα κ. Φί λιππος Κρίστοφερ, πολ λοί εκπρόσωποι και αξιωματούχοι κυπριακών οργανώσεων και σωματείων και πολλοί ομογενείς. Το απόγευμα της ίδιας μέρας διοργανώθηκε πολιτιστική εκδήλωση μνήμης, τιμής και αντίστασης στο Πολιτιστικό Κέντρο της Ιεράς Αρχιεπισκοπής με τίτλο «Φωνή Πατρίδας», το οποίο παρουσίασε ο Πέτρος Πετρίδης και συμμετείχαν στο τραγούδι οι Γιώργος Χατζημάρκου και Ριάνα Αθανασίου.

Διακήρυξη του Κυβερνήτη Την επομένη, Δευτέρα 21 Ιουλίου

ETA PRESS

Την επιμνημόσυνη δέηση για τους πεσόντες στην Κύπρο το 1974 παρακολουθούν στον Καθεδρικό Ναό του Αγίου Δημητρίου η πρέσβειρα της Κύπρου στις ΗΠΑ Ερατώ Κοζάκου–Μαρκουλλή, η γενική πρόξενος Μάρθα Μαυρομάτη, ο πολιτειακός βουλευτής της Νέας Υόρκης Μάϊκλ Γιάνναρης και άλλοι εκπρόσωποι του διπλωματικού σώματος και Κυπριακών οργανώσεων.

2003, ο φιλέλ ληνας κυβερνήτης της πολιτείας της Νέας Υόρκης, Τζορτζ Πατάκι, με την φροντίδα των συνεργατών του Ανθούλας Κατσιματίδη και

Γκραβούρα σε ξύλο, Τηλέμαχος Κάνθος.

Τζέϊμς Μπαρσία, διοργάνωσε εκδήλωση για την θλιβερή επέτειο της Τουρκικής εισβολής στα γραφεία του στην Νέα Υόρκη, στην οποία προσκάλεσε τον

Σεβασμιώτατο Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριο, τις διπλωματικές αρχές της Κύπρου και της Ελλάδος, τους εκπροσώπους των Κυπριακών οργανώσεων και τα ομογενειακά Μέσα Μαζικής Ενημέρωσης. Ο κ. Πατάκι εξέδωσε διακήρυξη την οποία και επέδωσε στους επίσημους προσκεκλημένους του με την οποία ανακηρύσσει επίσημα στην Πολιτεία της Νέας Υόρκης, την 20η Ιουλίου ημέρα αγώνα δικαιοσύνης για την Κύπρο. Ο Κυβερνήτης εξέφρασε την ελπίδα ότι όσο ακόμη υπηρετεί ως κυβερνήτης θα αξιωθεί να δει και να επισκεφθεί την Κύπρο ελεύθερη και ενωμένη και τόνισε ότι θα συνεχίσει τις προσπάθειές του προς κάθε κατεύθυνση για την ένταση των πιέσεων προς την τουρκοκυπριακή πλευρά. Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος εξέφρασε τις ευχαριστίες της Ομογένειας και του Ελ ληνισμού για τις άοκνες προσπάθειες και την συμπαράσταση του κ. Πατάκι στον δίκαιο Κυπριακό αγώνα, ενώ χαιρετισμούς απηύθυναν και οι άλλοι επίσημοι προσκεκλημένοι.

Είναι η ύπαρξη εκείνη, που ενώ έγινε μητέρα του Θεού, παραμένει σ ταθερά αθερά πευτα, μητέρα των ανθρώπων. Έτοιμη να ακούσει τους μυστικούς ψιθυρισμούς, τους αλάλητους στεναγμούς, τους κρυφούς πόθους και τις δυνατές τους χαρές. Σαν «όχημα» ζωής να τα μεταφέρει ανόθευτα «ενώπιον της Χάριτος του Υιού Της». Η Παναγία είναι ο μοναδικός άνθρωπος, που είχε την τιμή να δεχθεί την θεία πρόσκληση-πρόκληση, για να γίνει η θύρα, διά της οποίας ο Χριστός θα εισέλθει στον κόσμο, και σ’ αυτή την πρόσκληση δεν είπε όχι. Επιλέγοντας ελεύθερα (γιατί ο Θεός μας, ο Θεός της αγάπης και της ελευθερίας δεν πιέζει κανένα) αποδέχεται την πρόταση του Θεού λέγοντας: «Ιδού η δούλη Κυρίου· γένοιτό μοι κατά το ρήμα σου» (Λουκ. 1, 38).Ταυτόχρονα η Παναγία πετυχαίνει να γίνει η «Θύρα Σωτηρίας», όπως λένε οι Πατέρες της Εκκλησίας, για όλους τους ανθρώπους. Μια πραγματικά νέα εποχή αρχίζει για τον κόσμο όλο από τη στιγμή που η Παρθένος Μαρία αποδέχεται τη μετοχή της στο θεϊκό σχέδιο. «Τιμούμε την Παναγία», λέει ο Επίσκοπος Κάλ λιστος Ware «επειδή είναι η Μητέρα του Θεού. Δεν την τιμούμε μεμονωμένα, αλλά λόγω της σχέσης της με το Χριστό. Έτσι, η τιμή που δείχνουμε στη Θεοτόκο, όχι μόνο δεν μειώνει τη λατρεία μας προς το Θεό, αλλά ακριβώς έχει το αντίθετο αποτέλεσμα, όσο περισσότερο τιμούμε τη Θεοτόκο, τόσο περισσότερο σ υνειδητοποιούμε τη μεγαλειότητα του Υιού της, επειδή τιμούμε τη Μητέρα ακριβώς λόγω του Υιού». (Αποσπάσματα από το περιοδικό Πειραϊκή Εκκλησία).

ΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΣ 2003

ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ ORTHODOX OBSERVER

Αποφοίτησαν ως αριστούχοι στο Φλάσινγκ

Χειροτονία Επισκόπου στις Βρυξέλλες Με επιβλητικότητα και κατανυκτικότητα έγινε στις 22 Ιουνίου, στον Ι. Μητροπολιτικό Ναό των Παμμεγίστων Ταξιαρχών στις Βρυξέλλες η χειροτονία του Επισκόπου Σινώπης κ. Αθηναγόρου, νέου βοηθού επισκόπου της Ι. Μητροπόλεως Βελγίου. Της Θείας Λειτουργίας και χειροτονίας προέστη ο Σεβ. Μητροπολίτης Βελγίου κ. Παντελεήμων συμπαραστατούμενος από πολλούς άλ λους αρχιερείς. Παρευρέθηκαν πολλοί επίσημοι Ο νέος Επίσκοπος Σινώπης κ. Αθηναγόρας. πλήθος σ υγγενών και προσκυνητών. Ο νέος Επίσκοπος Σινώπης κ. Θεσσαλονίκης με μεταπτυχιακές Αθηναγόρας (κατά κόσμον Yves σπουδές στην Ελβετία και την Peckstadt) γεννήθηκε στην Γάνδη Ολλανδία. Εξελέγη παμψηφεί ως του Βελγίου το 1962 από τον πρω- Βοηθός Επίσκοπος του Μητροτοπρεσβύτερο Ιγ νάτ ιο και τ ην πολίτου Βελγίου Παντελεήμονος Μαρία-Τερέσα Peckstadt. στις 13 Μαΐου 2003 από την Αγία Είναι απόφοιτος της Θεολο- και Ιερά Σύνοδο του Οικουμενιγικής Σχολής του Πανεπιστημίου κού Πατριαρχείου.

D. PANAGOS

Επτά μαθητές και μαθήτριες διακρίθηκαν φέτος στο ημερήσιο σχολείο «Γουίλιαμ Σπυρόπουλος» του Φλάσινγκ, κατά την τελετή απόφοίτησης που έλαβε χώρα στον ιερό ναό του Αγίου Νικολάου. Οι επιδόσεις των αποφοίτων κατά την φετινή χρονιά αλλά και οι συνολικές επιδόσεις τους δικαιολογημένα τους κατέταξαν στους αριστούχους μαθητές που αποφοίτησαν από το κοινοτικά σχολεία. Τον Σεβ. Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριο εκπροσώπησε στην τελετή ο Θεοφιλέστατος Επίσκοπος Τρωάδος κ. Σάββας. Διακρίνονται από αριστερά η Αθανασία Βασιλοπούλου, η Ιωάννα Κουρκουμέλη, ο Γιώργος Μουζακίτης, ο Μιχάλης Αυγουστίδης, ο Ευάγγελος Βέκιος, η Γεωργία Βαζούρα και η Εφη Τσόμου.

Με τη σκέψη στην ανοικοδόμηση νέου Ναού

ÐÅÔÁÎÔÅ ÓÔÇÍ ÁÈÇÍÁ BUSINESS CLASS êáé óáò ðñïóöÝñïõìå ïðïéïíäÞðïôå ðñïïñéóìü åíôüò ÅëëÜäïò ÄÙÑÅÁÍ* D. PANAGOS

Με το βλέμμα όλων στον κύριο στόχο, την ανοικοδόμηση νέου ναού και την δημιουργία κοινοτικού κέντρου η Κοινότητα της Κοίμησης της Θεοτόκου στο Σαουθχάμπτον του Λόνγκ Αϊλαντ οργάνωσε με επι ή νέων της κοινότητας, που απέσπασε τα χειροκροτήματα των παρευρισκομένων. Η τελετή θεμελίωσης του νέου βυζαντινού ρυθμού ναού θα γίνει αμέσως μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία του Δεκαπενταύγουστου, από τον Σεβ. Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριο.

Αποχωρεί η Πρέσβειρα της Κύπρου

Q ÐåôÜìå ìå ôá êáéíïýñãéá ôåôñáêéíçôÞñéá AIRBUS 340 ÷ùñßò óôáèìü.

Q Åêðôþóåéò ãéá ðáéäéÜ Ýùò 12 åôþí. Q ÐåôÜôå óå ïðïéïäÞðïôå óçìåßï ôçò ÅëëÜäïò ÄÙÑÅÁÍ*.

Q Áíá÷ùñÞóåéò êáé åðéóôñïöÝò áðü ôï

Üíåôï êáé ðïëõôåëÝò ôÝñìéíáë ONE 1 ôïõ áåñïäñïìßïõ ÊÝíåíôé**.

(*) Ìéá ðôÞóç ãéá O/W Þ äýï ðôÞóåéò ãéá R/T. (**) Öüñïé êáé ôÝëç áåñïäñïìßïõ åðéðëÝïí.

JUNE 15 - AUG 31, 2003

ÄéáêåêñéìÝíç ÈÝóç $ $ RT 2,595 - 1,751 OW SEP 1 - OCT 31, 2003 APR 1 - JUN 14, 2003

ÄéáêåêñéìÝíç ÈÝóç $ $ RT 2,135 - 1,390 OW NOV 1, 2003 - MAR 31, 2004

ÄéáêåêñéìÝíç ÈÝóç $ $ RT 1,853 - 1,039 OW

ETA PRESS

Γεύμα πρός τιμήν της απερχόμενης Πρέσβειρας της Κύπρου στις ΗΠΑ κ. Ερατώ Κοζάκου-Μαρκουλή παρέθεσε ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος. Την κ. Μαρκουλή και τον Αρχιεπίσκοπο πλαισιώνουν οι Γενικοί Πρόξενοι της Ελλάδος και της Κύπρου στη Νέα Υόρκη Δημήτρης Πλατής και Μάρθα Μαυρομάτη.

Ãéá ðåñéóóüôåñåò ðëçñïöïñßåò áðïôáèåßôå óôïí ôáîéäéùôéêü óáò ðñÜêôïñá Þ óôçí ÏëõìðéáêÞ Áåñïðïñßá

1-800-223-1226 www.olympic-airways.gr

Ï Ë Õ Ì Ð É Á Ê Ç Á Å Ñ Ï Ð Ï Ñ É Á • Ç ÄÉÊÇ ÓÏÕ ÅÔÁÉÑÉÁ

ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ

ΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΣ 2003

ΠΑΤΡΙΑΡΧΙΚΗ ΑΝΤΙΠΡΟΣΩΠΕΙΑ ΥΠΟ ΤΟΝ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΟ ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟ ΣΤΟ ΒΑΤΙΚΑΝΟ

Αγίου Πέτρου, στις κατακόμβες και τους αρχαιολογικούς τόπους που βρίσκονται κάτω από την Βασιλική, στην Πατριαρχική Βασιλική της Santa Maria Maggiore και στον ναό του Αγίου Θεοδώρου ο οποίος χρονολογείται από τον 8ο μ.Χ. αιώνα, παραχωρήθηκε από την Καθολική Εκκ λησία στην Ελ ληνορθόδοξη κοινότητα της Ρώμης και τώρα επισκευάζεται και αναπαλαιώνεται.

u óåë. 21 Βατικανό, την δε επομένη παρέστη επισήμως στον εορτασμό της ημέρας των Αγίων Αποστόλων Πέτρου και Παύλου στην Πλατεία του Αγίου Πέτρου. Σε όλες τις παραπάνω περιπτώσεις ο Πάπας Ιωάννης Παύλος ο Β΄ στις ομιλίες του αναφέρθηκε στην αντιπροσωπεία και ιδιαίτερα στον Οικουμενικό Πατριάρχη κ. Βαρθολομαίο και στον Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριο. Ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος στις προσφωνήσεις του προς τον Πάπα τόνισε την ανάγκη συνεχίσεως της προσπάθειας για την υπέρβαση των διαφορών που χωρίζουν και διασπούν τις Εκκλησίες, και εντονοποιήσεως του έργου προσεγγίσεως, συμφιλιώσεως και ενότητος. Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος ανεφέρθη ακόμη και στο σοβαρό έργο υπέρ της ειρήνης, της παγκοσμίου συμφιλιώσεως και της προστασίας του περιβάλ λοντος που έχουν πραγματοποιήσει κατά την παρελθούσα 10 ετία τόσο ο Οικουμενικός Πατριάρχης Βαθολομαίος όσο και ο Πάπας Ιωάννης Παύλος ο Β΄ και πρόσθεσε ότι η επιτυχία του έργου αυτού δημιουργεί την ελπίδα όχι απλώς αγαθής συνεχίσεως αλλά επεκτάσεως και εις το θέμα της προσεγγίσεως των Εκκλησιών και των θρησκειών γενικότερα σε παγκόσμιο επίπεδο. Να σημειωθεί ότι το επίσημο δημοσ ιογραφικό όργανο του Βατ ικανού Observatore Romano διέθεσε πολλές σελίδες με παρουσίαση των εκδηλώσεων του τριημέρου και πλήρη δημοσίευση

Μοναχές του ιεραποστολικού τάγματος της Μητέρας Τερέζας λαμβάνουν την ευλογία του Αρχιεπισκόπου Δημητρίου κατά την διάρκεια της ξενάγησής του στην Βασιλική του Αγίου Πέτρου.

των κειμένων της προσφωνήσεως του Αρχ ιεπισκόπου Δημητρίου και των ομιλιών του Πάπα καθώς και ευρύτατη φωτογραφική παρουσίαση μέσω της οποίας προβάλλεται η επίσκεψη της Πατριαρχικής αντιπροσωπείας. Την Κυριακή 29 Ιουνίου το πρωί, ο Σεβασμιώτατος και η Πατριαρχική αντιπροσωπεία παρέστη στην Θεία Λειτουργία και εκκλησιάστηκε στον ελ ληνορθόδοξο ναό του Αποστόλου Ανδρέα του Πρωτοκλήτου. Ο Αρχιεπί-

σκοπος μετέφερε στο Εκκλησίασμα τις πατρικές ευχές του Οικουμενικού Πατριάρχου Βαρθολομαίου και αναφερόμενος στο παράδειγμα των εορταζόντων Αγίων Αποστόλων Πέτρου και Παύλου που αφιέρωσαν εξ ολοκλήρου την ζωή τους στον Θεό αναρωτήθηκε «πόσο κοντά είμαστε άραγε όλοι μας σήμερα σ’ αυτήν την νοοτροπία των Αποστόλων;» Εξ ά λ λου στα πλαίσια της επισκέψεως η Πατριαρχική Αντιπροσωπεία ξεναγήθηκε στην Βασιλική του

Περίτεχνη εικόνα με ασημένιο σταυρό στο κέντρο και παραστάσεις από την ζωή του Κυρίου προσέφερε ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος στον Πάπα εκ μέρους του Οικουμενικού Πατριάρχη Βαρθολομαίου.

Η ΘΕΙΑ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ ΤΟΥ ΚΑΘΕΔΡΙΚΟΥ ΝΑΟΥ ΑΓΙΑΣ ΤΡΙΑΔΟΣ ΤΗΣ ΝΕΑΣ ΥΟΡΚΗΣ ΣΤΟΝ ΑΝΤΕΝΝΑ SATELLITE

O ANTENNA SATELLITE στο πλαίσιο του ενδιαφέροντός του για την ομογένεια και την προώθηση της Ελληνικής παιδείας και Ελληνικής Ορθοδοξίας στις ΗΠΑ μεταδίδει κάθε Κυριακή 10 με 12 το πρωί την Θεία Λειτουργία απευθείας από τον Καθεδρικό Ναό της Αγίας Τριάδος στη Νέα Υόρκη. Εκτός από την Κυριακάτικη λειτουργία οι τηλεθεατές του ΑΝΤΕΝΝΑ θα έχουν την ευκαιρία να παρακολουθούν έκτακτες μεταδόσεις από τον Καθεδρικό Ναό κατά τη διάρκεια των μεγάλων εορτών της Ορθοδοξίας μας.

AUGUST 2003

PEOPLE

uPriest honored Fr. Demetrios Kavadas, retired pastor of Assumption Church in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., recently became the first clergyman ever to be honored with the March of Dimes Michigan Chapter’s Alexander Macomb Citizens of the Year Award. The presentation took place at an awards dinner in late May. He was one of two persons to be honored at the 20th annual event.

uHeads clergy Fr. George Chioros pastor of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church of Newport News, Va., recently was elected president of the Peninsula Clergy Association. The Association is an ecumenical body of ministers in the Hampton Roads area that meets and discusses various issues facing the region’s faithful.

uGolden anniversary James G. Vletas, University of Texas (EE ’46, JD ’53) was honored on June 13, 2003 as a 50-year member of the State Bar of Texas at its annual meetings and general sessions luncheon in Houston. He and spouse, Penelope, were honored at a formal dinner at the Houston Country Club in May as well. He is a long-time member of the Annunciation Cathedral having served several terms on the parish council and also is a member of St. Basil the Great on the west side of Houston.

uCommencement speaker Zinovia Abatzis of Astoria, N.Y., was the valedictorian at the recent Marymount Manhattan College’s 54th Commencement held at Avery Fisher Hall in New York. Ms. Abatzis graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with an education minor. A wife and mother of two children, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry-bioinformatics.

uPresident honored Daughters of Penelope chapter 229 in Edison, N.J., recently honored Grand President Evellyn Tsiadis for her outstanding achievements, and distinguished service with a testimonial dinner in late May.

uLong jumper Gregory Marangos, son of Fr. Frank and Presbytera Haidee Marangos, recently qualified for the USA Track and Field National Junior Olympics long jump event. He won the gold medal in his age group of Intermediate Boys for the New England Junior Olympics and won the bronze medal in the District Junior Olympics (NE United States) which qualified him to go on to the National Junior Olympic competition in Miami July 30-August 2. He is a student at Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, Mass. where he earned a varsity letter in track and field.

uEagle Scouts Boy Scouts of America Troop 715 at Holy Cross Church in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, recently inducted Nicholas Apostolakos and Andrew Simeon Gounardes into its Eagle Scout Court of Honor.

uScholar inducted The National Society of Collegiate Scholars recently inducted Panagioti Efstathiou of Oak Brook, Ill. He is a student at Eastern Illinois University and will be honored on campus in the fall.

Where the Priest, and Some Parishioners ‘Walk the Walk’

t. Nicholas, a small parish in a former industrial city near the Connecticut-Massachusetts border has high hopes of one day building a new church. Located between the much larger communities of Hartford, Springfield and East Longmeadow, Mass., and along with Holyoke and Chicopee, Mass., it is one of five Greek Orthodox churches within a radius of less than 20 miles. The St. Nicholas church building, a modest, wooden structure, is a state landmark, Fr. Bebis told the Observer; one of the oldest, if not the oldest, church building in Connecticut still in use, though it had been largely rebuilt in 1979 following a major fire.

P A R I S H

the century, as were many New England cities where Greeks first settled. The city’s textile mills included two large carpet manufacturers that employed many Greek immigrants, the Hartford Carpet Co. and Bigelow-Sanford Carpet Co. Both were within walking distance of the Greek neighborhood in Thompsonville. For several years, these original Greek settlers would take the trolley or walk the 9-mile distance to attended St. George Church in Springfield. The Springfield priest occasionally would travel to Thompsonville/Enfield to perform sacraments in the homes of communicants. By 1915-16, the growing number of faithful formed a separate parish and the congregation purchased the Orpheum Theater where the church now stands.

pointed. Fr. George Savas would take the bus on Sundays and on other holy days from his residence in Springfield to celebrate the Liturgy, while he operated a grocery store in Springfield on weekdays. Fr. Savas also taught the Sunday School and Greek school. He was described in the parish history as “fluent in several languages” and, prior to immigrating to the United States, had served as an emissary for the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. In the early 1960s, Fr. Prokopios Nikas arrived in the community as its first full-time pastor. The parish bought its first residence for the pastor in 1968 and, in 1974, acquired the present parsonage. Fire destroyed much of the church building in 1978. For about a year, services took place at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, a few blocks from St. Nicholas. Between 1979 and 1990, the parish and its congregation slowly changed and English were used more and more. During that period, St. Nicholas Church was served by Frs. John Kamelakis, Harry Pappas and Stanley Harakas. They helped to integrate the parish into the greater Enfield community, through membership in the local Council of Churches and by taking part in local events. Fr. Bebis arrived at St. Nicholas, his first parish, in 2000, shortly after his ordination. He delayed his entry into the priesthood until marST. NICHOLAS CHURCH riage. In the interim, The parish received its corporate he supported himself as an elementary school teacher and by working at Home charter in 1917. The theater building served as the Depot; experience he said has given house of worship until 1925, when it was him a good training in dealing with people. destroyed by fire. ServicFr. Paul es then took place at a Bebis is the rented hall a few blocks son of the away until a new buildRev. Constaning, the present structine S. Bebis, ture, was completed a who for more year later. than 50 years The church was has served consecrated on Oct. as pastor of 25, 1926. The present St. George iconostasis contains Church in New the original westernBedford, Mass., and the style icons that nephew of Dr. George Bebis, adjunct date to 1925. professor of patristics at Holy Cross Until the early 1960s, St. Nicholas Church had School of Theology. Since his arrival in the community, no full-time priest. The first pastor mentioned in the parish history was a Fr. Bebis has established the junior Greek immigrant and Thompsonville GOYA and JOY programs, a senior citizens social group and, what may be resident, Fr. Christos Danos. The Depression brought great financial a unique “ministry” among parishes, a hardship to the community and from 1932- “walking club.” Every Monday morning at least 42 services were held only once a month. The Greek Orthodox parish in Spring- 10 parishioners, mostly retirees and field donated the church pews in 1940. mothers of young children, gather at Other donations included a bell in 1944 the church to walk up to three miles to a park and go out for breakfast, in and a pump organ in 1945. Finances improved after World War a spirit of Christian fellowship. “I’m a II and another part-time pastor was ap-

p ro f i l e

Name: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Location: Enfield, Conn. Metropolis: Boston Size: About 90 families Founded: 1916 Clergy: Fr. Paul C. Bebis (HC ’94) Website: www.stnicholas-enf.org Noteworthy: One of the oldest churches in Connecticut “It’s a beautiful church, really pretty nice.” Fr. Bebis said. “But there is no access for the handicapped and no (off-street) parking.” This presents a problem for the elderly and an inconvenience for younger persons who “get turned off because they have to park far away. They go to East Longmeadow.” The church is situated appropriately enough at the corner of Church and Chapel streets in the northern part of Enfield, an area known as Thompsonville, about a quarter-mile east of the Connecticut River. For much of the 20th century, Thompsonville had been a mostly Greek neighborhood until a few decades ago. In recent years it has deteriorated and crime is a problem, the priest noted. “We want to build a new church,” Fr. Bebis stressed. “We’ve got to leave the area.” Since 1996, the parish has begun efforts to purchase property for a new, larger house of worship. Membership, though small, has increased since 1979, the priest explained. In addition to those residing in Enfield (pop. about 45,000) other parishioners live in nearby Connecticut towns and villages that include Suffield, Windsor, Windsor Locks, and East and South Windsor. The mostly second- and third-generation Greek Americans consist of several small business owners – pizza houses, a mini-mall and restaurants; as well as professional people – a lawyer, a dentist and a pediatrician who are members. A parish history indicates many of the first Greek settlers came to the area around 1900 from the village of Konitsa, Epirus, near the Albanian border. St. Nicholas is considered the patron saint of Konitsa and they chose him as the namesake of the church they eventually established. Enfield, founded in 1683 and part of Massachusetts until 1749 when it was annexed to Connecticut, was home to several textile companies at the turn of

ENFIELD

u page 26

AUGUST 2003

St. Photios Foundation Executive Board Meets

Publisher: Orthodox Can Make a Difference through IOCC CLEVELAND - International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) provides Orthodox Christians in the United States with a unique opportunity to transcend their differences and work together to meet some of the world’s most pressing needs, newspaper publisher Alex Machaskee, president and publisher of the Cleveland Plain Dealer said June 2 at the 11th annual banquet and assembly of IOCC’s Cleveland Metropolitan Committee. The committee is one of 27 such groups across the country that advance the humanitarian mission of IOCC through fund-raising and volunteer work. Machaskee said the banquet was a celebration of the Cleveland community’s “unity of purpose and effectiveness” in supporting IOCC, the official humanitarian aid agency of Orthodox Christians. Ohio consistently ranks among the top three states that support IOCC. “We have an extraordinary spirit of giving in the Greater Cleveland community,” he said. “I urge that all of you look deeper and ask yourselves if you are serving God in all that you do and in the way that he had intended.” Machaskee, who serves on the Executive Committee of IOCC’s Board of Directors, challenged the 400-plus attendees to work to ensure the future of IOCC and other pan-Orthodox organizations. “Sometimes I feel that we are deficient in the charitable area. So many needs exist

and many go unmet,” he said. “That is why I care so deeply about the mission of IOCC and philanthropy in general.” Calling IOCC an extension of God’s compassion in the world, Machaskee highlighted the agency’s work in areas such as Serbia and Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Romania, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Georgia, and the Middle East. “It is difficult to maintain a presence in areas where IOCC has been working that are no longer in the news ... but where there is significant work yet to be done,” he said. “Thus, Orthodox commitment to philanthropy is more critical than ever.” Machaskee noted that IOCC’s humanitarian mission is expanding to places such as Iraq, the Horn of Africa, Southeast Asia, Argentina and beyond. “As always, it is doing so on behalf of Orthodox Christians and in concert with the Orthodox Church,” he said. IOCC Board President Bert Moyar also addressed the audience, thanking them for their support of IOCC. Moyar introduced a visiting Orthodox priest, Fr. Andrew Mondal of Calcutta, India, who thanked IOCC for its support of a program that feeds street people, including children, in Calcutta. The banquet was co-chaired by Fr. Anthony and Presbytera Eleni Demetri of Annunciation Church in Cleveland, and hosted by St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church in Broadview Heights, Ohio.

Expanding Operations In Post-war Iraq BAGHDAD – Following up on its response to the immediate aftermath of the war in Iraq, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is preparing to deliver hundreds of thousands of dollars in humanitarian assistance to some of Iraq’s most vulnerable citizens. In the coming weeks, IOCC will open an office and hire staff in Baghdad to expand its operations and meet the growing humanitarian needs there. The office will facilitate the delivery of emergency food, medicines and potable water to children, women, the elderly, families in camps and internally-displaced persons in and around Baghdad, said David Holdridge, IOCC Chief Operating Officer. “IOCC’s goal is to cooperate with churches and mosques in order to meet the most pressing needs of suffering Iraqis,” Holdridge said. “While the situation has improved since IOCC began its first humanitarian assistance two months ago,

there are still large numbers of elderly, chronically ill, disabled and destitute who are barely surviving.” With support from the relief alliance Action by Churches Together and the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IOCC will deliver family food parcels, first-aid kits, medicines and hygiene supplies to some of the neediest Iraqis through a network of churches and mosques. Through its expanded presence in Iraq, IOCC will work to create stockpiles of basic food supplies; create stockpiles of medicines and medical supplies; secure clean potable water; and prevent health risks and the transmission of disease. IOCC’s parent organization, the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas, is encouraging all Orthodox Christians to support IOCC’s efforts in Iraq through prayer and giving. Visit www.iocc.org or call toll-free 1-877-803-4622.

PARISH PROFILE u page 25 walker. I love to walk,” said Fr. Bebis. Among the other parish programs and ministries are the Sunday School, with five students ages 4 to 13. The children are not divided into grades but are taught as a group by one teacher. There currently is no Greek school, but the community is looking for a teacher to provide language instruction. The main income source is stewardship, supplemented by the annual Greek festival that takes place on the campgrounds of the local Knights of Columbus Hall over a weekend. “We do pretty well,” Fr. Bebis said. There also is a community glendi and the Philoptochos chapter holds a fashion show each year. The priest characterizes his ministry at St. Nicholas as “great.” He puts heavy

emphasis on visitations to his flock. “I like to go the parishioners’ homes, have coffee with them, visit them in the hospitals,” he said. “I think the priest should be one-onone with parishioners. It’s very important to be visible.” Fr. Bebis also serves as vice president of the Enfield Christian Council of Churches and strives to provide an Orthodox Christian witness to the greater community. He gives great credit to many parishioners who volunteer to help their church. “We have a lot of people who put in a lot of time and effort,” he said. “We have families that give so much, It’s unbelievable. They want to really see the church move on and go forward.” Father and Presbytera Terry are parents of a young son, Joshua. – compiled by Jim Golding

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The spring meeting of the St. Photios Foundation Executive Board took place on June 28 at Holy Trinity Church. The meeting was held in conjunction with the Greek Landing Day Celebration 2003. Executive Director Fr. Nicholas Graff welcomed the trustees on behalf of Foundation Chairman Archbishop Demetrios. Fr. Graff also read a letter from the Foundation President, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, urging all to “carry on our Faith and spirit of Hellenism.” He congratulated all those involved with the 21st annual National Shrine Pilgrimage. Fr. Graff reported that in February the Shrine hosted members of Leadership 100 for a memorial service at the St. Photios Chapel, and the National Philoptochos Society contributed $15,000 for the annual Friends appeal. He expressed sincere gratitude to the Daskalakis Family Foundation Fund and the Metropolis of Atlanta Ladies Philoptochos Society for their generous support. The Shrine associate director, Andrew Lekos reported, “Efforts are being made to enhance the Shrine by creating awareness and expanding the ministry, outreach, and witness of the National Shrine.” He stressed that maintenance of this historic site is priority, and the Foundation Endowment Fund, which was presented to the 36th Clergy-Laity Congress of the Archdiocese, will be instrumental in involving communities in the work of the Shrine. Also, churches play an integral role by purchasing candles from National Shrine Church Supplies, which offers same prices as ordering directly from manufacturer. Shrine chaplain Fr. Nikitas Theodosion, pastor of Holy Trinity Church, reported that more services are being held in the St. Photios Chapel, especially with communities that are visiting. He encourages more pilgrimages and retreats be organized to St. Augustine. In 2003, the Shrine has hosted more than 15 groups. St. Photios Foundation Treasurer Maria Carantzas of Jacksonville, Fla., gave the financial report. She reported that the Shrine is installing a new accounting soft-

ware program, and overall the Shrine is in a positive financial position. Also during the meeting, committee chairmen reported on the progress of various programs. The 22nd annual St. Photios National Shrine Pilgrimage and trustees meeting is Feb. 6-8, 2004, which will include the first annual Shrine benefit golf tournament. Dr. Manuel Tissura of Tucker, Ga., will chair the pilgrimage weekend, and Dr. John Grossomanides of Westerly, R.I., will chair the golf tournament. The Shrine’s Archbishop Iakovos Enhancement Project chairman, Nick Furris of Jacksonville, stated that presentations of the enhancement project have been made, and the renovation of three rooms would require $100,000 each. Greek Landing Day Celebration 2003 chairperson, Ms. Carantzas announced that the commemoration of the 236th Greek Landing Day would be June 26 and 27, 2004. Cina Daskalakis of Lutherville, Md., the Shrine Wall of Tribute chairperson shared, “The Wall of Tribute is our Ellis Island; it is where our families and communities are held in memorial.” An immediate goal is to list each Church and Philoptochos on The Wall of Tribute to help to fund the St. Photios Shrine Foundation Endowment. Marketing Chairman Christopher D’Anna of Baltimore submitted a report recommending the Foundation continue evaluating the various programs. The St. Photios Foundation Board of Trustees cares for the preservation of the national shrine and its history through carefully planned development. Foundation Vice President Harry Thomas Cavalaris of Charlotte, N.C. noted that, “The Shrine offers an opportunity to memorialize loved ones.” The National Shrine is a living memorial to the first Greek settlers on the American continent and to all the Greek Orthodox pioneers whose love of freedom and desire for a better life for themselves and their children brought them to this New World. The next scheduled meetings for the St. Photios Foundation Executive Board of Trustees will be held in October.

In Memoriam Fr. Paraschou Paraskevas

EAGAN, Minn. – Fr. Paraschou (Parry) Paraskevas, 69, died June 24. He had been retired since May 1, 1999. Born in Thessaloniki, he attended public schools and the Aristoteleion University in the city. He immigrated to the United States in 1963 and later attended the Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Ind., for a year; and Northwestern University in Chicago. From August 1963 until August 1970, he worked as a teacher at All Saints Church in Joliet, Ill. He and his presbytera, Marianna Andrews, were married in July 1969.

Fr. Paraskevas was ordained as a deacon April 19, 1970 and as a priest on May 20, 1979 in Chicago by Bishop Timotheos of Rodostolou. He served the parish of St. Vasilios in Watertown, N.Y., from August 1970 to September 1975. He received the offikion of confessor from Archbishop Iakovos in Dayton, Ohio in November 1971, and, from 1977 until his retirement, served St. George Church in St. Paul, Minn. In addition to his presbytera, survivors include three children: Anastasios, Elisabeth and Aemilianos.

Fr. Demetrios Karambelas

HAMILTON, Ontario – Fr. Demetrios George Karambelas, 71, died April 14. He was born in Bydiakion, Arcadia, Greece and attended public schools and the Pedagogical Academy of Athens, Greece. He and his presbytera, Maria Theodosiou Papadopoulou, were married in April 1958. Fr. Karambelas was ordained as a deacon at St. John Theologos Church in Kastoria, Greece, and as a priest at St. Paraskeve Church in Kastoria.

He immigrated to the United States in 1962 and was assigned to St. Demetrios Church in Hamilton in March 1962. He served the parish until October 1974, when he was then assigned to St. George Church in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He served there until December 1977, when he was assigned to Assumption Church in Hamilton. In addition to his presbytera, survivors include three children: George, Theodosios and Chrysanthe.

AUGUST 2003

The Voice of

Philoptochos

More Than 70 Years of Christian Philanthropy Part 5 The Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople elected Metropolitan James (Iakovos) of Melita as Archbishop of North and South America. by Terry Kokas

The new Archbishop, who had spent many years in the United States as dean of Holy Cross Theological School and as the dynamic dean of the Annunciation Cathedral in Boston, was well known in America. He had attained an international reputation as an ecumenical leader in his role as the representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate at the headquarters of the World Council of Churches in Geneva. He was enthroned on April 1, 1959, using since then only the Greek version of his name, Iakovos. At the first opportunity the new Archbishop met with the Central Council of the Philoptochos Society to review its humanitarian program and to offer recommendations. The decade of the Sixties was very productive with the Philoptochos expanding its membership and accepting new challenges that made an important impact on the future and progress of the Greek Orthodox faith. At the Philoptochos National Conference in Buffalo, N.Y., in 1960, the name of the executive body was changed from Central Council to “National Council.” Hariclia Malamos was elected president. Several new programs were adopted at the conclave: The “Sisterhood of St. Basil’s Academy” was founded. Its purpose was to focus totally on offering substantive financial support to the institution. This proved to be a very important element in the progress of the Academy. Anthoula Tsougros was appointed chairman. Two important programs were initiated under the patronage of Queen Frederica of Greece. • A foster parent plan to adopt poor children in Greece. In less than 10 years Philoptochos raised and sent to Greece $107,000. Helen Kavrikas was chairman. • Contributions to dowries for poor girls in Greece. An estimated $6,000 was raised during a five-year period and sent to the coordinating committee in Greece. The Archdiocese, in 1961, established a Department of Social Welfare to aid the poor in the United States and Greece, the new immigrants, the sick and the disabled. The National Council of the Philoptochos appointed Alexandra Shikar as chairman. Contacts were made with the city, state and federal social welfare agencies to assist as extensively as possible those in need. About $53,000 was raised and more than $41,000 disbursed. In 1961, the Greek government asked the Archdiocese to become the official adoption agency for Greece to enable Greek and Greek-American families to adopt orphans. The Philoptochos National Council was given this responsibility to undertake all aspects of this program and process the adoptions. Three dedicated ladies were chosen for this adoption-commit-

tee: Mrs. Lycourgos Davey, chairman; Mrs. Basil Vlavianos and Mrs. George Kertatos, co-chairmen. In 1963, a most important philanthropic program was begun under the dedicated leadership of Despina Vrachopoulos, executive secretary of the organization. An annual collection was inaugurated throughout the Archdiocese to benefit the Patriarchate’s charitable projects and philanthropic institutions. This collection would be taken every year on Nov. 1, the Feast Day of the Sts. Cosmas and Damianos, the Philoptochos Society’s patron saints. Program recipients would include the patriarchal schools for girls, the orphanage on the Pringipos Islands, the welfare agency operated by the Patriarchate and others. Philoptochos Society members worked diligently in gratitude to the organization’s founder, Patriarch Athenagoras, whose inspiration and love still permeates all of the Philoptochos projects. In less than one decade more than $180,000 was sent to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. At the National Philoptochos Conference in Denver in 1964, Sophie Hadjiyanis of New York, assumed the presidency. A major decision was to build three dormitories at St. Basil Academy. This was an enormous undertaking and required the cooperation and all of the resources the Philoptochos chapters could muster. Monies were raised not only for the dormitories but also for the furnishings. Dedication of the dormitories took place during the 1972 Commencement Ceremonies, with Mrs. Hadjiyanis and members of the National Council participating. Another crisis developed in 1964 when thousands of Greek Orthodox were expelled from Constantinople by Turkish authorities, including two highranking metropolitans of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Immediately, Philoptochos sent $5,000 to help relocate these victims of oppression. The Sixties also brought a new influx of immigrants from Greece as a result of a new immigration law passed by Congress. This law increased considerably the quota for Greece and many complex problems created by the arrival of these new immigrants, Archbishop Iakovos established the Archdiocese Social, Health and Welfare Center in Astoria, N.Y., where a great number of newcomers were settling. Bishop Philotheos of Meloa, auxiliary and assistant to the Archbishop, was appointed general director and Stella Coumantaros, a qualified social worker, was named director of social services. A year later this agency was moved to the Philoptochos National Office at the Archdiocese, where it continued to offer complete social services to the community. The Philoptochos Conference in Montreal approved a special National Scholarship Award in 1966 to assist deserving high school students of Greek descent to enter college.

Philoptochos in the ’60s & ’70s under Archbishop Iakovos

METROPOLITAN NICHOLAS with luncheon organizers, Maria Stavropoulos, Katherine Kotsis and Ann Feles.

Detroit Metropolis to Host Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon

NEW YORK – The annual Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon and celebration of the Feast of Sts. Cosmas and Damianos, patron saints of National Philoptochos, will be celebrated Nov. 1 in Dearborn, Mich., with guest speaker actress Nia Vardalos of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” The luncheon will take place at the Ritz Carlton hotel under the high patronage of Archbishop Demetrios and the spiritual leadership of Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit. General chairman is the National President Georgia Skeadas. Luncheon chairman is Maria Stavropoulos of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., a member of the National Board for many years. Co-chairmen are: Katherine Kotsis of Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., president of the Detroit Metropolis Philoptochos; and Anne Feles of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., a member of the National Board for several years. The Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon was established in 1989 by the National Board of Philoptochos following Archbishop Iakovos’ recommendation to expand its Children’s Cardiac program at New York Children’s Hospital to include all children with life-threatening illnesses. In addition to assisting seriously ill children, part of the proceeds have been

contributed to many children’s hospitals in the United States, including: Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York; Children’s Memorial Hospital, Chicago; Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh; Children’s Hospital in Boston; Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles; Egleston Children’s Hospital, Emory University, Atlanta; University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Ala.; Children’s National Medical Center, Washington; Hasbro Children’s Hospital Providence, R.I.; The University Institute for Children’s Health, Newark, N.J.; Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia; The University of Chicago Children’s Hospital, Chicago; Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee; Washington University Department of Pediatrics, St. Louis; Papanikolaou Hospital Pediatric Hematology Clinic, Thessaloniki, Greece. More than $1 million dollars has been contributed to these hospitals and to patients, totaling $1,227,702. Recipients of the 2003 Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon will include the following hospitals in the Metropolis of Detroit: Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit; C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, N.Y., and Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati. For information call: (313) 864-5433.

Another historic aspect of Philoptochos’ concern for children was the founding of the Open Heart Surgery Committee, to help Greek children suffering from heart ailments. This program was begun in 1968 under the chairmanship of Jenny Scourby. With the support and cooperation of the Loma Linda Hospital in California, heart specialists went to Greece to perform this delicate operation. Open Heart Surgery was not performed in Greece at that time. The Philoptochos raised thousands of dollars for the proper surgical equipment that was sent to Greece, and arranged for qualified surgeons on the Loma Linda Hospital staff, to travel to Greece to examine and operate on youngsters with heart conditions. A total of 324 patients underwent this open-heart surgery. Doctors and nurses were brought from Greece, to learn the techniques of open-heart surgery, returning to Greece to serve heart patients there. This program later developed into the present Children’s Cardiac Program, which continues as a national project of

Philoptochos. It is chaired by Alice Nicas. With the continued growth of Philoptochos, and under the ecumenical leadership of Archbishop Iakovos, the Society became a member of Church Women United, an organization comprised of Christian women of many denominations devoted to promoting better understanding among these various communions. Judge Yorka Linakis was named as the representative of Philoptochos to Church Women United. This involvement with CWU has grown over the years, with Greek Orthodox women serving in various executive capacities. The Philoptochos Society began the 1970’s with new vigor, its membership continued to increase and new national humanitarian and educational programs were undertaken. Ecumenical activities were high on the agenda of the organization. In 1972 during the Houston Conference, Philoptochos President Sophie Hadjiyanis named Stella Coumantaros as director of the National Office. Despina Vrachopoulos retired after serving the Society with dedication and love for 37 years.

AUGUST 2003

LEGAL SERVICES

Dr. Kimon A. Legakis

Athens University Law School•Master of Law, Harvard Law School Doctor of Law, Greece •Certicate of International Law, Hague Academy of Int’l Law

Le g a l C o n s u l t a n t OFFICES

Tel: (914) 725-4717 Fax: (914) 725-4936

Tel: (011-30210) 646-1016 Tel: (011-302299) 02-7111 Fax: (011-302299) 02-7382

With emphasis on: Settlement of Inheritance, Taxes, Disputed Properties, Civil, International Family and Business Law in Greece

U.S. IMMIGRATION • TAXATION BUSINESS LAW INTERNATIONAL TRANSACTIONS WILLS & ESTATES

Dr. ARES D. AXIOTIS

ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW ÄÉÄÁÊÔÙÑ ÐÁÍ/ÌÉÏÕ OXFORD, ENGLAND Ô. ËÅÊÔÙÑ ÍÏÌÏËÏÃÉÁÓ ÐÁÍ/ÌÉÏÕ CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND MEMBER OF NY AND CT BARS 36 West 44th Street – Suite 1300, New York, NY 10036

NEW WAY REALTY

Call George or Marianna Steriadis New Homes from 90k & Resales Call for brochure. Seasonal Rental New Condo. Ïìéëïýìå ÅëëçíéêÜ. ÅëÜôå óôïí ÐáñÜäåéóï! New Toll Free (888)333-6564PIN#4123 • (727)804-8289

MAGOULA, SPARTI 7.15 stremata with 2story house, 360 orange trees, minutes from downtown Sparti Tel: (847) 692-2198

CAPE SOUNION AREA

PROPERTY FOR SALE

FLORIDA

Rare large hiltop parcel, 11 plus stremata, overlooking sea and valley. Close to Temple of Poseidon, in area of year round and vacation villas. Sale price $ 475,000 (US). Firm, or increase due to Olympics. Serious inquiries only! Call: (207) 282-1197

KENTRIKON-NOUFARO 23-35 31 St. Astoria, NY 11105

GREEK CHILDREN’S BOOKS • Books, Videos & CD-ROMs • Boubounieres And More

(630) 860-2545

Artistically designed using unique materials Decorated candles available

Handcrafted Heirlooms Toll Free: 1-888-788-1380

We ship anywhere!

www.HANDCRAFTEDHEIRLOOMS.com

(718) 721-9190

Free catalog • FREE Shipping FAX: 1-781 862-8435

www.kentrikon-noufaro.com

AUTO SALES

JAMES MALLIS

Mercedes-Benz Sales Representative Mercedes-Benz of Princeton 2910 U.S. Route 1 Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 Telephone: (609) 771-8040 Cell: (267) 496-7379 Fax: (609) 771-9384 jmallis@mbprinceton.com SAY YOU SAW THIS AD IN THE ORTHODOX OBSERVER!

EMPLOYMENT ATHLETIC/ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR POSITION St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Westlake, Ohio is looking for someone to manage it’s new, state-of-the-art recreation facility. Director will plan year-round physical, social and cultural activities for youth, adults and seniors. Volunteer coordination, long-range planning and budget knowledge all helpful. A degree in physical/recreation education helpful but not necessary. Salary 25,000 plus benefits.

Please submit letter of intent and resume to Search Committee,

P.O. BOX 451339, Westlake, Ohio 44145

HELP WANTED ADVERTISE IN THE ORTHODOX OBSERVER

Tel: (212) 570-3555 Fax: (212) 774-0239

www.ALLTHATSGREEK.com

IF YOU ARE MOVING

Great American &

Greek Music Tel.:201.768.9100 INTERNET: http://www.vali.com • Email:Music@vali.com

GEORGE KENT•GREEK•AMERICAN•INTERNATIONAL ORCHESTRA & ENTERTAINMENT EXPOSÉ REQUESTED! “BOOK EARLY FOR 10% REBATE!”

ONLY TRUST YOUR SOCIAL TO A PROVEN NAME GROUP OF FULL TIME PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS ENTERTAINERS, AT AFFORDABLE PRICES, WHO’S ONLY BUSINESS IS MUSIC. PERFORMING AUTHENTIC GREEK MUSIC OF ALL REGIONS, COLONIES OF GREECE. FEATURING THE “PRIME VOICE OF GREECE...” THE CLARINO & BOUZOUKI PLUS VOCALS. BEWARE! OF GREEK BANDS PROMISING AMERICAN MUSIC, THEN PLAYING TAPES! ALL OUR MUSIC IS PERFORMED “LIVE”...OUR AMERICAN SOUNDS PURE AMERICAN, WITH NO ACCENT!

CALL KENT 1-914-476-3020

or write: 118 Bolmer Ave., N.Yonkers, NY 10703-1637 Send for stereo cassette albums “Zorba” or “Athena” $11.00 for one, $20 for both to address above.

Mail this coupon to the Orthodox Observer 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10021

N TA OR

MP YI R E

STEFANA

Wedding and Christening items, Favors, Martirika, Vaptistika, Ecclesiastical items.

WANT RESULTS

MYSTRA, LACONIA 18.5 stremata olive field with approx. 160 olive trees, territory: Sklaviki Tel: (847) 692-2198

MISCELLANEOUS

Tel.: (212) 840-3422 or (203) 255-3312 WEDDINGS

PROPERTY FOR SALE

CLEARWATER-TARPON SPRINGS

MOTHER’S HELPER NEEDED

Greek/American family in Cleveland, OH looking for live-in nonsmoker, 21-35 year old, preferably bi-lingual female to help with two school-age children and one toddler. (440) 708-0624.

AND Ask your parish to forward your name and new address to the Observer in order for you to continue receiving the newspaper IF you move but your new home is located in the district of the same parish, then list your new address below:

THE

TROJANS of NEW YORK

THE ULTIMATE IN GREEK AND AMERICAN MUSIC EMAIL:TROJAN888@AOL.COM

(718) 204-0400

NAME ___________________________________________ ADDRESS ______________________________________ CITY___________________ STATE ______ ZIP________ PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR OLD LABEL

ORTHODOX OBSERVER ADVERTISING RATES

DISPLAY ADVERTISING per column inch: .......$ 55.00 quarter pg: ................ $ 750.00 half page: ................. $1,500.00 full page:................... $3,000.00 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING single column inch ......$ 50.00 dbl. column inch ..........$100.00

MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS “Type page width” is 59 picas (9.75”), depth is 14 inches Display ads: Four columns to

a page. Single column width is 14 picas (2.25”). For each additional column add 15 picas (2.5”). Classified ads: Six columns to a page. Single column width is 9 picas (1.5”), double column width is 19 picas (3.25”) Camera ready ads preferred. DEADLINES: Reser vations: 25 days before publication. PAYMENT TERMS: All ads are payable in advance, unless contract agreement is in effect and account current.

Dimitrios Photography & Video

Call our studio to talk about the wide variety of wedding packages for nearly every budget.

CALL NOW ( 516) 931-2333

ATLANTIS MUSIC

NEW YORK’S FINEST ALL STAR BAND FOR AN ELEGANT AND SUCCESSFUL EVENT CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-549-2134

DEMO TAPE AVAILABLE

TAMPA FLORIDA AMERICAS FINEST GREEK/AMERICAN BAND! CONVENTIONS, DANCES, FESTIVALS & WEDDINGS

Call: (813) 949-3409 • E-mail: omegaproject@juno.com

THE

ONE

AND

ONLY

“TRIO BEL CANTO” - NEXT GENERATION -

The most sought after Greek Band Available for all occasions!

For any information contact: EVANGELOS METAXAS: lead singer, original member 201-224-7208 OR KYRIAKOS METAXAS: 201-224-8472

For CDs Log on to: www.triobelcanto.com

REV111502

209 Garth Road Scarsdale, N.Y. 10583

7 Koniaris Street Athens 114 71, Greece

MUSICIANS

FOR SALE

AUGUST 2003

Challenge

YOUTH MINISTRY

What’s Up? It’s Monday morning and, after stumbling out of the shower, you go to your closet and begin the daily ritual of picking out something to wear. You choose an outfit that looks all right on the hanger, put it on, look in the mirror, and then decide… to wear something else. by Sophia Sokolov

While the clock on your nightstand ticks away, this cycle continues as the pile of clothes on your bed grows bigger and bigger, and your confidence grows smaller and smaller. Sound familiar? This scenario isn’t isolated to just girls’ bedrooms; guys face similar anxieties as well. We know that the image reflected back in the mirror is the same image all our peers will see throughout the day, and we are concerned about it. We want to look “good.” But what does it mean to look “good”? Tragically, our society and the media have imposed upon us ideals and standards of what the ideal young man or woman should look like. And, often, these measurements, whether because of genetics or health reasons, are unrealistic. Many of our modern models, actresses, and beauty contestants pictured on magazines, television shows, and movies meet the weight criteria for anorexia, while the muscle and fitness market increasingly targets young men through the same propaganda. When this standard of good is constantly pushed in our faces, we sometimes can’t help but fall victim to thoughts of inadequacy and low self-esteem. We are at the time in our life when we want to be recognized and noticed, and over time we can become so obsessed with our appearance that the ideal of “good” fades away and is replaced with the unquenchable drive to look better. This drive, combined with a waning body image, diverts our energy away from cultivating a healthy life in Christ and often results in a life in despair poisoned by disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, steroid use, overeating, and other lifethreatening problems which plague the turbulent teen years. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Our body image, our perception of ourselves, does not have to be centered on how we look. It needs to be centered upon who we are. Have you ever seen someone who physically matched most of the societal standards for “attractive” but whose personality and character made him or her repulsive? And, on the other hand, I’m sure you’ve come across someone fairly ordinary whose inner beauty made him or her a most radiant person. We have to constantly remind ourselves that our personhood is not defined by our physical attributes. We will be judged, ultimately, by God, “…for the LORD sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart” (1 Sam 16:17). As Orthodox Christians we must cultivate a healthy body image that springs, not from our outside, but from our inside—from our character and faith. In order to combat this obsession with our appearance we must repair our broken body image by identifying, not with the cov-

e-mail: youthofce@goarch.org

Body Image? WITH

ers of magazines, but with Jesus Christ, our Lord. Christ is our ideal. We should emulate his life, his teachings, and follow the examples found in the lives of the saints. When we become Christ-centered rather than self-centered people, our body image will soar higher than any magazine can promise. I know that this advice is easier to give than to take, but this might be a good time to stop ourselves and brainstorm ways to challenge our own perception of our bodies and those of people around us. Think about it this way: • First, when we look at ourselves (and others), we need to remember that we are all created in the image and likeness of Christ. In other words, we are all a bunch a little icons of the Kingdom. What do icons do? They serve as windows that allow the light of the Kingdom to shine upon the world. What does this mean for us? We must be careful to project an image of faith, which can only come from living a Christ-centered life. • Second, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. However, the Spirit can only dwell in our hearts if we make room for it. How can we make room? We must keep away from gluttony, starvation or whatever worldly “solution” has crept into our hearts. These addictions are dangerous and can easily become our own personal idols. When trying to avoid temptations and poisons, we need to challenge ourselves to be temperate in our decisions. We must learn to make healthy choices. When the going gets rough, ask Christ for the strength to persevere. • Thirdly, if you need help, do not be afraid to ask somebody. The most dangerous choice is isolation. Talk to your priest, a teacher, your parents, or even someone you trust at church. Why the Church? The Church is a community made up of living members of the body of Christ who often experience the same temptations and anxieties. And like any unified body, when one part is suffering, the rest of the body can feel when something is wrong. Find someone to talk to. So, what’s up with body image? It’s not how we look that should affect how we perceive others and ourselves; it’s who we are. Who are we? We are young men and women created in the image and likeness of Christ who must strive to follow the examples provided by the true reality, Christ’s Church. The more we cultivate a life in Christ, the stronger our confidence and self-image will become. Here’s my challenge to you: before you go to sleep tonight, put an icon of Christ close to your mirror. When you wake up tomorrow morning, pick out an outfit, and look in the mirror, make sure that you spend as much time looking at that icon as you do looking at your reflection. Over time, our prayer is that the two images will become one. We are all icons of Christ; it just takes a lifetime to make the image clear. Sophia Sokolov is a student at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in Crestwood, N.Y. where she lives with her husband, Kirill. She is originally from Las Vegas. Sophia is doing a summer internship for the Archdiocese Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

Movie Review

thing. Then you would move on to help other people, like solving the problem of world hunger or create world peace. The power of God is not something to mess around with. As most of you readers know, the movie “Bruce Almighty”, starring Jim Carrey came out about two weeks ago. It discusses this concept of receiving God’s power for as long as you wanted it. But with great power, comes great responsibility, as Jim Carrey’s character, Bruce Nolan, finds out. While taking care of his personal problems, the world goes into chaos, and Bruce has to realize that he is not the only one experiencing hard times in his life. This movie is probably going to be one of Carrey’s best. It’s hilarious! The story is about Bruce Nolan, an on-thestreet reporter who is trying to achieve the ultimate news position of anchor. He gets frustrated with his life and can only resort to yelling at God. The plot thickens and all of a sudden, after mocking

God, he comes to a building and meets God, played by Morgan Freeman. When he leaves he has God’s power. The story develops from there, and I won’t say anything else. Now let’s consider Jim Carey for one second. For those of you who have seen his movies you know they can be a little vulgar. Well this movie is no different. You have the sexual content, the language and Jim Carey’s usual sick humor. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying he’s a bad actor and I’m not saying this movie is not worth your time, but you may want to consider that this movie may not be appropriate for you. If you are concerned about the director portraying God in a blasphemous way, I really didn’t notice any. Morgan Freeman is very respectful about playing God and I didn’t see any mockery on his part. This movie is actually similar in some ways to our priests’ sermons. At one point I thought I was listening to my priest. Morgan Freeman tells Jim Carey to “pray, and pray in a real way. Pray for what is really important.” We all need to pray in our lives, and we always pray for our family and ourselves. However, do we pray for what is really necessary? It’s a good question for all of us to ponder. I wish I knew the answer, and if I did, I’d be...God. I can say one thing though; this movie would make an excellent discussion starter in GOYA meetings. Go see it. It might make for some interesting conversation. God Bless! James Kazakis graduated from Jamesville-DeWitt High School and will attend Oswego State University in Oswego, N.Y. in the fall. He attends St. Sophia’s Church in Syracuse where participated in altar and the church choir. James is an Eagle Scout.

Did You Know…

Parent and Youth Worker’s Corner

BruceALMIGHTY If one day, when you least expected it, God pulled you into a building and said, “You now have all of my power, do what you please”, what would you do? No seriously, think about it. If you had the power to do anything in the world, what would you do? I’ll give you a minute to think about it. OK. I’ll bet that the first thing that you thought about was something to do with yourself. That’s not a bad thing it’s natural. I did the same by James Kazakis

TRANSFIGURATION OF CHRIST

On August 6 we celebrate the Transfiguration of our Lord. In the gospel of Luke it is written, “and even as He prayed, the fashion on His face was altered, and His garments became white and dazzling…” (9:30). This glory was always with Jesus. The wonder of it was that it was repressed. Jesus did not add anything to His nature at the Transfiguration that He did not always possess. He merely revealed who He already was. He was always divine and at the Transfiguration, His divine glory, was revealed. It flashed through His physical body. If Jesus, the Head of the Body was transfigured, then we who are members of His Body will also be transfigured with Him. The dazzling light that shown through Christ on Mount Tabor is not just something that happened in the past. It is a window through which we can look to see the reality of the Kingdom of God not only in Christ but also in us. As we live a life in Christ we are gradually transformed into His likeness. This is our personal transfiguration in Christ. (Taken from Daily Vitamins for Spiritual Growth by Fr. Anthony Coniaris)

For a session and a power point presentation on Body Image to do with teens, go to our website at http://www.goarch.org/en/ archdiocese/departments/youth/ youthworkers/sessions/ Eating disorders and body image issues are something many of our teenagers struggle with. Unless we begin the dialogue, we may not realize how much of a struggle this is for them. If you run into a teenager with an eating disorder, consult with your parish priest. The following websites can also be of assistance. • www.mirror-mirror.org/ eatdis.htm (Eating Disorders) • www.edauk.com/ (The Eating Disorder Association) • www.eating-disorders.com/ (The Center for Eating Disorders) If you’re not already, sign up for our youth worker list server! We send weekly resources, ideas and activities for parents and youth workers. To sign up, send e-mail to listserv@listserv.goarch.org. Leave the subject blank and in the body of the e-mail type in “subscribe youth” (without the quotation mark). You’ll get confirmation of your subscription shortly after.

AUGUST 2003

Tampa Day School Dedicates New Classroom Building TAMPA, Fla – St. John Greek Orthodox Day School recently dedicated its new classroom building and held a major fundraiser that featured Gen. H. Norman H. Schwarzkopf (U.S. Army ret.). More than 250 students, friends, alumni, school board members, parents and other special guests joined Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta to bless the new building. This campus transformation was the direct result of the school’s Building for the Future Campaign. The program began with a religious ceremony celebrated by the Metropolitan and attended by St. John’s Fr. Konstantinos Kostaris. Emceed by parish council President Andy Paloumpis, the program included inspirational remarks from Metropolitan Alexios, Campaign Chairs John Simon and Candy Hobbs, School Board Chair Mike Xenick, and Headmaster Jim Larkin.

Tampa’s St. John Greek Orthodox Day School students singing and signing “My Country Tis of Thee”. lanta and offers an accelerated academic program to about 175 students in grades K3 – 8. The $1.8 million Building for the Future Campaign is the largest and most comprehensive capital campaign Tampa’s St. John community has undertaken since its’ founding in 1967.

pants to “Have a great time and raise some money for this fine institution. We must help children get the best possible education now so they will be good community leaders in the future.” Gen. Schwarzkopf spent time mingling with the crowd and posing for pictures. “We are extremely excited to get

to meet the general and so glad he could come out and support our school,” said Jim Larkin, headmaster. St. John is located at 2418 Swann Avenue in South Tampa. For more information about St. John, visit their website, www.stjohngreekorthodox.com, or call (813) 876-4569.

N.J. Parish Holds Groundbreaking for New Center

Tampa’s St. John Greek Orthodox Day School’s Building for the Future Chairman John Simon, Construction Chair Dimitri Artzibushev, Chris Lewis (grade 8), Campaign Co-Chair Candy Hobbs, Headmaster Jim Larkin, Fr. Konstantine Kostaris, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, Parish Council President Andy Paloumpis, Jason Lee (grade 8), School Board Chair Mike Xenick and Metropolitan Philoptochos President Dee Nicolaou. Students participated by singing and signing “My Country Tis of Thee” and reciting the Lord’s Prayer in Greek, along with the Metropolitan. Eighth graders Jason Lee and Chris Lewis, who have attended St. John since Kindergarten, represented the students on the dais. St. John’s is the only Greek Orthodox day school in the Metropolis of At-

NJ AHEPA Chapter Fulfills Pledge

RANDOLPH, N.J. – AHEPA Chapter 300 officials recently presented a $17,500 check to St. Andrew’s Church pastor Fr. Konstantine Tsigas and Parish Council President Teresa Demitriou as payment for its $25,000 pledge toward the church building fund. Paul Sakellaropoulos, chapter president, and T.J. Borzeka, treasurer made the presentation and pledged the local Ahepans’ full support toward the completion of the community center.

St. John’s is still seeking lead gifts from all sources, which includes naming of the new education building. The new building includes 14 classrooms for grades 1 – 8, a state-of-the art science lab, a computer lab, and a library/media center. Gen. Schwarzkopf’s visit The fund-raiser with Gen. Schwarzkopf was held May 31 and attracted more than 180 guests to the Pine Creek Sporting Clays for the Day School’s first Celebrity Challenge Sporting Clays event. St. John parents, parishioners, alumni and friends raised more than $15,000 for the new classroom building. The day started in the early morning with practice rounds and continental breakfast. Guests spent the next three hours circulating through 17 challenging “stations.” Students served as trappers and scorers for the event. A barbeque luncheon was prepared and donated by Ringhaver Equipment Company. The other major event sponsor was Kimmins Contracting Company. Gen. Schwarzkopf encouraged all the partici-

AT WYCKOFF groundbreaking festivities joining Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Evangelos (l. to r.) Lynn Coromilas, Presbytera Mary Leondis, Fr. Alexander Leondis, Christine Lemond, Capital Campaign chairwoman; Dr. James Coromilas, Parish Council president; Eugenia Manuel Zymaris, Philoptochos president; Fr. James C. Moulketis, protopresbyter St. Nicholas; and Presbytera Evangeline Moulketis.

WYCKOFF, N.J. – St. Nicholas Church held groundbreaking services June 22 marking the beginning of the expansion program for their parish center. Archbishop Demetrios of America celebrated Divine Liturgy together with Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey. Following the Divine Liturgy there was a procession to the construction site where the groundbreaking ceremony was held. Archbishop Demetrios then lovingly invited all the youth present to participate in this milestone event in the life of their Church. The community plans to add additional classrooms for the growing Sunday school and Greek programs under

the $2.5 million project. A gymnasium/multipurpose room also will be constructed, the kitchen area will be doubled and an administration wing is planned. A luncheon was organized after the groundbreaking and parish young people presented a program of song, dance and poems that featured the GOYA Greek folk dancing and chorale groups. The Sunday school angel choir and Greek School students offered their talents and gifts to Archbishop Demetrios, Metropolitan Evangelos and all those attending. The parish hopes to complete this project early next year.

AUGUST 2003

New Indiana Church Land Blessing

VALPARAISO, Ind. – Parishioners of St. Iakovos community gathered recently for the blessing of their newly acquired property where they will build a new church. Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago celebrated the hierarchical liturgy, assisted by Fr. James Greanias, pastor, and Deacon Stefanos Alexopoulos. Following the service, the parishioners gathered at the 29-acre site for the water blessing ceremony. Plans call for a community center to be completed sometime in 2004.

St. Iakovos Church was founded in 1981. In the beginning, services took place in the basement of St. Paul’s School in Valparaiso. In July of that year, the community purchased the former Wesleyan Methodist Church building that was remodeled and converted to an Orthodox church. The new structure will be a Byzantinestyle edifice. The parish serves Porter County, in northwestern Indiana, and includes Orthodox Christians of Greek, Jordanian, Serbian and Albanian background.

Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco was honored, May 17, by the friends of Hellenic Studies at Loyola Marymount University. At the banquet (left to right) Sue Alexopoulos, Maro Vourgourakis, Akrevoe Emmanouilides, Aristid Berk, Fr. John S. Bakas, Metropolitan Anthony, Hon. Andreas Kyprianides, Vivi Demopoulos, Dena Paponis, and Demetrios Liappas.

Hellenic Group Fetes Metropolitan Anthony LOS ANGELES – Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco was honored by the Friends of Hellenic Studies and the Basil P. Caloyeras Center at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. More than 200 guests gathered May 17 to pay tribute to his 25 years of service to the Diocese of San Francisco, share family remembrances and enjoy an evening of Cretan poetry, music and dance. Fr. John Bakas, dean of St. Sophia Cathedral, reflected on the Metropolitan’s efforts to promote and preserve Orthodoxy, Hellenic culture and education, and his untiring efforts on behalf of his flock. Phil Angelides, California state treasurer, reflected on their long and supportive friendship and praised Metropolitan Anthony’s efforts to increase the visibility of the Greek Orthodox faith in the western states. In his keynote speech, Mr. Angelides stressed the value and importance Greek culture places on education and the need to support and promote centers for Modern Greek Studies. Archbishop Vatcher Hovsepian of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, on his last appearance before his retirement, reminisced about his friendship with Metropolitan Anthony and the work they have accomplished in bringing the two communities together. Right Rev. Alexei R. Smith delivered an eloquent greeting on behalf of Cardinal Mahoney of the Los Angeles Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Andreas Kyprianides, consul general of Cyprus, spoke movingly of his close cooperation and friendship with Metropolitan Anthony and their joint efforts on behalf of the just cause of Cyprus. He recalled their many visits to the island to see at first hand the devastation after the 1974 Turkish invasion. Among other eminent guests were James Gianopoulos, chairman of Fox

Entertainment, Nicholas Alexopoulos, dean of UC Irvine School of Engineering, representatives of the Greek government, members of the St. Sophia Foundation as well as friends and supporters from many parishes of Southern California. Fr. Michael Engh, S.J., dean of Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts, Loyola Marymount University, and Peter B. Caloyeras, a university trustee, welcomed the Metropolitan to the campus and awarded him a Certificate of Recognition for his pastoral and spiritual leadership, exemplary, service to the Greek Orthodox Church, lasting philanthropic deeds, support of Hellenic Studies, and his vision of excellence in the education of the Clergy. The Keravnos Dancers of St. Sophia Cathedral performed a suite of Cretan dances, and Professor Apostolos Athanassakis, Classics Department chairman-UC Santa Barbara, recited verses from Erotocritos, the 16th century classic poem beloved by all Cretans Professor Katharine B. Free, Co-Chair of the Theatre Arts and Dance Department at L.M.U., read the English translations of the poem. Metropolitan Anthony was visibly moved upon being presented with a sculpture of a mother and child. He spoke endearingly of his recently deceased mother and her profound influence upon his life. He also commended the Caloyeras Center for Modern Greek Studies for all it has done and is doing to develop interest in Modern Greek Studies at Loyola Marymount University and in the greater Los Angeles community. Proceeds from the event will help support the educational goals of the Center and assist in broadening its programs. For information regarding the Caloyeras Center for Modern Greek Studies, please call (310) 338-4463.

METROPOLITAN IAKOVOS prepares the Holy Water to bless the new land recently purchased by St. Iakovos Church. Gathered around the Metropolitan are: (l. to r.) John Kilavos (past president of the community), Deacon Alexopoulos, Fr. Greanias, and altar boy Alex Olympidis.

Retiring Priest, Scouts Honored by S. F. Metropolitan KENMORE, Wash. – Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco visited Holy Apostles Church here in late June to join the community in honoring its retiring pastor, Fr. Michael Johnson at a banquet in Seattle’s St. Demetrios Church Center. Fr. Johnson has been a priest for 30 years serving several parishes in the Puget Sound area, including the past four as founding pastor of the Holy Apostles Mission Church.

Metropolitan Anthony also officiated at a hierarchal Liturgy at Holy Apostles at the end of which he tonsured altar boys and readers and presented a number of religious awards to parish Boy Scouts. The awards, under the auspices of the Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting, are given to Orthodox Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Campfire, who complete a program of study and service in the Church.

Koraes School Holds 87th Graduation Exercises PALOS HILLS, Ill. – The 87th commencement for Koraes Elementary School at Sts. Constantine and Helen Church took place in early June and was attended by Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago. The 27 graduating class members were: Aspasia Sasha Alexakis, Elaina Argires, Eleftherios Avtzis, Alexandra Dames, Eftihia Davelis, Demetri Dongas, Stephanie Dremonas, Li’ Anna Drossos, Eleftheria Rhea Drougas, George Gelis, Dimitra Iliopoulos, Vasilios Kalas (valedictorian), Panagiota Tania Karas, Ioannis Kourafas,

Alexander Ktenas, Tomo Lazovich (salutatorian), Magadelene Margaris, Jada Nettle, Christina Papadatos, Alexandra Papadopoulos, Krysta Privoznik, Alexis Stamm, Kara Symeonides, Marianna Tsiamas, Telly Visvardis, Felicia Vithoulkas and Tom Vitogiannis. Others attending included parish priests, Frs. Byron Papanikolaou and Nicholas Jonas; parish council President Theodore Argiris, board Chairman Peter G. Lagen, Principal Asemena Stathopoulos, and others.

Photo by C.T. Argue

AWARDS CEREMONY (front row l. to r.) Robin Pflager, Chi-Rho Award; Christian Pflager, and Forrest Goff, St. George Award; (middle row) Nicholas Avgeres, St. George Award; Nicholas Karambelas, Peter Themelis, and Christopher Themelis, Alpha-Omega Award; (back row) altar boy Supervisor Gus Themelis, Fr. Michael Johnson, Metropolitan Anthony, and Deacon Tom Tsagalakis, who will ordained to the priesthood in August and become pastor of this mission parish.

AUGUST 2003

St. Basil Academy Holds 56 Commencement th

GARRISON, N.Y. – The 56th Commencement at St. Basil Academy on June 21 drew more than 200 persons despite rainy conditions and a flood watch in effect.

Emmanuel has lived at St. Basil’s for 13 years and plans to attend Westchester Community College this fall, where he wants to study by Jim Golding computer graphics. Irakli Kaja, a native of The six students honored included graduates of a local community college, Athens, Greece, was the a high school senior and four eighth eighth grade valedictorian. He recalled that, when he graders. Stella Yopp, who resided at the Acad- first came to the academy, he emy for eight years, completed her two “barely knew English...now I years of study at Duchess Community Col- do all my work in English.” The program included lege and was one of three valedictorians. A dean’s list student every semester, she plans several other speakers, including trustees President Dr. to attend Hellenic College in the fall. Following a warm welcome to Steven Gounardes, National Philoptochos President Georthose attending the comgia Skeadas, Daughters mencement by Dr. of Penelope Grand Steven Gounardes, President Evellyn president of the Tsiadis, and Dr. board of trustGeniene Gugees, three lielmo, superstudents intendent of named as the Highland valedictoPHOTOS BY D. PANAGOS Falls School rians gave GRADUATES WITH Archbishop Demetrios, Bishop Philotheos of Meloa, Fr. Sitaras, National Philoptochos PresiD i s t r i c t , their brief nd where St. Ba- dent Georgia Skeadas (2 from left) and other Philoptochos officials, chapter representatives and St. Basil speeches. sil’s children Board of Trustee members. In her attend public school. valedictory Dr. Guglielmo, a lifelong deprived of education because address, Ms. Putnam County resident, said they are deprived of the elemenYopp said St. before St. Basil’s children began tary conditions of life: food, Basil’s “shaped me attending district schools, she had clothing and shelter.” He noted to become the person wondered what the academy was. But, that the governments of some I’ve become. I learned about morals, values, hard work, spirituality, con- since her association began with the chil- nations even pay parents to send fidence and patience.” She expressed her dren, “God made sure I not only learned their children to school. He told the students to be gratitude to the St. Basil staff and Fr. Costa what St. Basil Academy was, but helped me to love it,” she said. “The “thankful for what has been givchildren are wonderful and en” to them “in this wonderful the people who work here country where the opportunities are wonderful.” for education are unlimited. In his brief address to “Too much has been given the graduates, Fr. Sitaras to us and too much is expected told the students, “We are from us,” the Archbishop said. GRADUATE TOMMY Spentzos is all smiles the family that is the Greek He also said the “target of as he is joined by the Archbishop and Academy director. Orthodox Church and it’s universal.” He compared the understanding of “family” that is the Church to Jesus’ drawing together individuals from all walks of life who “went away from the mainstream to follow Christ.” Fr. Sitaras also said STELLA YOPP with Archbishop Demetrios and Fr. Sitaras. the St. Basil’s continuously strives to instill academic Sitaras, director of the academy, “who excellence in the students. “We keep raisraised me to be the person I am today.” ing the bar and will only be satisfied with O’Neil High School graduate and improvement and growth,” he said. valedictorian Emmanuel Papadakis also exIn his closing remarks at the compressed appreciation to the administration mencement, Archbishop Demetrios and called Fr. Sitaras “a good role model. extolled the values of education and He taught me to work hard in life.” observed that “millions of children are

The 2003 ST. BASIL ACADEMY GRADUATES: Irakli Kajo, Ashley Mendoza, Nancy Morana, Thomas Spentzos, Emmanuel Papadakis and Stella Yopp.

MEMBERS of the Select Chorus of Highland Falls Middle School sing a song written by St. Basil student Melissa Nikitis (front row, left).

any real knowledge is the knowledge of God and the knowledge of Christ,” and urged them to “grow in the knowledge of Christ and to know God and know ourselves.” This year’s commencement program included two firsts. Adding to the formality of the occasion, a Junior ROTC color guard from O’Neill High School led the procession. It included a St. Basil student, Joseph Al-Shaniek, a junior at O’Neil, who commanded the unit during the ceremony. In another first, the Select Chorus from Highland Falls Middle School sang an original composition by one of its members, and

also a St. Basil student, Melissa Nikitis. She composed a song titled Nobody To as a tribute to her grandmother who had died the past year, which brought praise from Archbishop Demetrios. Presentations to the students and the Academy were made by National Philoptochos President Georgia Skeadas, Daughters of Penelope Grand President Evellyn Tsiadis and Philoptochos chapters from the following communities: Bridgeport, Conn.; Staten Island, N.Y., Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Orange, Conn., Flushing, N.Y., New Rochelle, N.Y., Rye, N.Y., and Fairview, N.J., and from the Children’s Alumni of the Academy.