New York, NY - Hundreds gathered at the Archdiocesan Chapel on Thursday evening, October 26, 2006 to celebrate the Nameday of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America. The evening included the chanting of the Doxology in honor of Saint Demetrios, the reading of telegrams and a special welcome to the guests by His Grace Bishop Savas of Troas, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Formal greetings were also offered by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Gratsias, President of the Direct Archdiocesan District Clergy Syndesmos, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Triantafillou, President of Hellenic College/Holy Cross School of Theology, Mr. Michael Jaharis, Vice-Chairman of the Archdiocesan Council, Mrs. Georgia Skeadas, President of the National Philoptochos Society, Mrs. Ekaterini Bouras, Consul General of Greece, and Mrs. Martha Mavrommatis, Consul General of the Republic of Cyprus.

Archbishop Demetrios warmly welcomed the faithful to the Archdiocese and thanked them for their love. In his remarks, he stressed that the Church should not focus on the charisma or accomplishments of individuals. "As the body of Christ," His Eminence said, "the Church ministers through the collective work of all the faithful."

Guest later enjoyed a delicious reception on the second floor of the Archdiocese and the opportunity to personally greet His Eminence. The entire celebration can be viewed on-line at: www.goarch.org.

Contact: Rev. Dr. Frank Marangos