Return from the Ecumenical Patriarchate after discussions on the Charter: "Renewed Optimism"

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America has returned to the United States having concluded a productive and successful meeting at the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.

His Eminence, joined by some of the Metropolitans of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, traveled to Istanbul to discuss matters pertinent to the Charter of the Archdiocese and, along with his brother Hierarchs, to obtain the guidance of His All-Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew regarding this important matter.

His All-Holiness thanked His Eminence for his proposals regarding changes to the Charter, and the Metropolitans for their willingness to come and share their thoughts and concerns regarding the Charter revision which was initiated by the Ecumenical Patriarchate and included the establishment of the Mixed Commission on the revision of the Charter.

Following the guidance of His All-Holiness, special meetings of the Holy Eparchial Synod will convene to consider the re-evaluation of the current "canonical foundation of the administrative shape of the Sacred Archdiocese of America"; and the "future regulation of its internal boundaries on a pragmatic basis,” as stated in the official announcement of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Moreover, it was agreed that His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros will continue to travel throughout the Archdiocese to speak with the clergy and devout laity to present a vision for the future Charter and continue to incorporate their input.

His Eminence stated: "I return to the USA with renewed optimism after fraternal discussions which were held in a spirit of unity. The Charter of the Archdiocese is of paramount importance for the vital relationship between our Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, and our Sacred Archdiocese. I am grateful to His All-Holiness for his vision, strength, and guidance, and to my brother Metropolitans who responded with love for the future of this blessed eparchy of the Throne.

His All-Holiness conveys to all the faithful in America, as do I and my brother Hierarchs, heartfelt wishes for a blessed Pascha and joyous Resurrection."