This month of March the Holy and Sacred Synod of our Ecumenical Patriarchate begins a new synodal period. This beginning is both a historic and important occurrence in the life of our Orthodox Church, in that the new Synod now comprises six Hierarchs residing in the Holy See of Constantinople as well as six Hierarchs from other Eparchies of the Ecumenical Throne outside of Turkey. This new composition enhances the Synod with an even greater quality of broad and diverse voices, perspectives that are truly global in scope.

The gathering together of Orthodox Church leaders from Eparchies that comprise different countries, cultures, and nationalities for purposes of approaching issues related to church governance is by no means a new development. Rather, it is rooted in the early Apostolic foundations of the Christian Church, which was a pioneer of the convening of Ecumenical Councils and Synods that were truly global in composition, literally drawing participants from the corners of the known world. Since Her founding, the Orthodox Church has affirmed the importance of drawing together diverse and geographically representative participants in order to discuss matters of importance and concern. In so doing, it has always affirmed the concept of conciliarity in its approach to articulating the faith and to managing church affairs.

In its most general sense, the principle of conciliarity is expressed in all dimensions of ecclesiastical life where human beings experience the mystery of synergy, through which the people of God are guided as a community of free persons united in the Holy Spirit. It was through this mystery and power of the Holy Spirit that the participants of the early Ecumenical Councils of the Church were enabled to traverse vast geographical distances in order to come together in a spirit of fellowship and love for the truth. It was the creative, liberating, and loving synergy of the Holy Spirit that enabled them to affirm the conclusions of their deliberations in faith and conviction, following the Apostolic declaration, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us" (Acts 15:28).

The conciliar and synergistic way of life of the Orthodox Church is experienced in a particular manner by Synods of bishops; however, it is by no means confined to them. Rather, conciliarity is expressed within relationships at every level through the relationships of the leaders of autocephalous churches with one another, through the fraternal interaction among bishops, between bishops and their presbyters, between clergy and the laity whom they serve, and in the interaction of the members of the laity among themselves.

Here in America, we are blessed with the especially advantageous situation of living in a Church that is strong in its adherence to the conciliar and synergistic principles of life and action. These principles hold special prominence within our metropolises and parishes throughout America, as they present us with considerable opportunities for forming true communities which are expressive of our Orthodox conciliar way of life, and which recognize that the health and vibrancy of the Church is greatly enhanced through the contribution of diverse perspectives from others.

The positive developments that are occurring in our Church on a global level, and the wonderful opportunities that are present for forming true communities of love on the local parish level are splendid occasions for us to reflect upon the immense challenges and blessings inherent within our conciliar and synergistic way of ecclesiastical life, a way of life that contributes richly and uniquely to the beauty of the religious landscape of our nation.

As we reflect upon these challenges and blessings, I pray that the Holy Spirit may renew our lives and enhance our relationships with one another, as our Lenten journey moves forward in love and in reconciliation toward the saving Passion and glorious Resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

+DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America