Today afternoon, the new Archbishop of America, Elpidoforos, came to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the members of the Holy and Sacred Synod to accept, with the small Message, his election.
Addressing the new Archbishop of America, Ecumenical Patriarch referred firstly to the issues that concern the Archdiocese of America the last years, something that may justify the emergency of the situation.
Bartholomew also stressed that the Ecumenical Patriarchate was looking for a worthy successor of Archbishop Dimitrios for the position of the Archbishop of America, who would be able to bring back the proper function of the particular Church.
Addressing Elpidoforos, the Ecumenical Patriarch stated that Mother Church decided to entrust Elpidoforos 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 Elpidoforos to reestablish the Theological School of the Holy Cross, and to enhance the relations between the Archdiocese and the Patriarchate.
Bartholomew also appealed to Elpidoforos 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. Elpidoforos 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 Elpidoforos started to serve the Church, the former was the one to mould his personality with a lot of patience, love and aptitude.