Invocation by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America

At The Investiture of Michael Amiridis

President of the University of South Carolina

University of South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina

January 20, 2023

Let us pray with and for one another:

    O Lord of the ages and Creator of the Universe,

We give thanks to You today for Your servant Michael, for his family and for the greater family of the University of South Carolina, over which he now presides.

As he has fulfilled in his own lifetime the ancient injunction – αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν, “to ever excel” – grant that he may inspire every member of this academic community:

to exceed their expectations,

to reveal their greatest talents,

and to embrace the life and people of the great State of South Carolina, through inclusion, participation and the respect of true mutuality.

Grant unto him the spirit of understanding, a prudent and virtuous mind, and the wisdom that comes from You, the font of all knowledge and mystery.

Bless this University, captained by President Amiridis, with health, prosperity, tranquility and, above all, vision.

For You are the wellspring of every blessing and gracious gift, and to You do we ascribe glory: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.