On Saturday afternoon, the new Archbishop of America, Elpidophoros, came to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the members of the Holy and Sacred Synod to accept, with the small Message, his election, Romfea News informs.
Addressing Elpidophoros, the Ecumenical Patriarch stated that Mother Church decided to entrust Elpidophoros with the Archdiocese of America, as a young, spirited, assertive, educated and master of many languages, active and efficient Hierarch.
Bartholomew also voiced confidence that the new Archbishop shall be successful, shall honor the vote and the trust of the Holy Synodal Archpriests and he shall meet the expectations of the Patriarch, “who cherishes you with paternal love, appreciating your virtues and your loyalty”.
Next, the Ecumenical Patriarch said that he expects Elpidophoros to reestablish the Theological School of the Holy Cross, and to enhance the relations between the Archdiocese and the Patriarchate.
Bartholomew also appealed to Elpidophoros to cultivate brotherly relations with “our brothers of other religions, Muslims and Jews. Your experience and knowledge of Islamic society and culture shall be extremely useful”.
“Dear Brother of America, you have a lot to do and offer. We trust you. May you distinguish yourself as an Archbishop of love, peace, humility and purity. Axios (Worthy)!”.
In his response, Archbishop of America emphasized that he realizes that his new post, besides the honor and the trust, has a lot of responsibilities. Elpidophoros also said that he shall always look to the Ecumenical Patriarch, “because this is the only way for me to succeed; otherwise, if I detach from the Great Church, there is the danger of ingratitude and loss”.
The new Archbishop of America concluded that he is truly grateful to accept the new post, and thanked Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew because since Elpidophoros started to serve the Church, the former was the one to mould his personality with a lot of patience, love and aptitude.
Photo courtesy of Romfea News
