His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America

Invocation & Remarks at the Gracie Mansion Greek Heritage Reception

April 9, 2024

Gracie Mansion

New York, New York

Mayor Adams,

Dear Friends,

Invocation:

Let us bow our heads in prayer:  

We give thanks to you, O God, for this day of celebration of Greece and Orthodoxy by the City of New York.

We express our gratitude to Mayor Adams, and to all his co-workers who serve the good people of New York.

Sustain their efforts.

Prosper our City.

Keep all our Police, Fire, and Emergency Responders safe,

And grant unto us to live in peace, safety, and abundance, through Your loving grace. Amen.

 

Remarks:

Dear Mayor Adams,

On behalf of the Greek Orthodox People of New York City, and indeed, the national Archdiocese of America, whose headquarters is not so far from Gracie Mansion, allow me to I express to you our gratitude and appreciation for your recognition of Greek Independence Day, March 25, 1821.

This coming Sunday, we shall once again march up Fifth Avenue with pride and joy, waving the National Banners of Greece and Cyprus, and we look forward to you joining us and the mighty Evzones.

The Hellenes of Twenty Five Hundred Years ago brought forth the concept of Democracy to the world, and ever since, women and men of good courage and integrity have endeavored to perfect the democratic model of Athens, refining and ever-expanding the circle of inclusion that a true Democracy demands.

Today, we join hands with you to make of our City a better place for all its citizens, and we thank you for your service to this end. And in those you will honor, you honor every Greek of New York! We are by your side, Your Honor, in the thick of creating a more democratic city and world.

Long live – Ζήτω – our beloved New York City!

Ζήτω τὸ Ἑλληνικὸ Ἔθνος!

Photos: GOARCH/Brittainy Newman