The Metropolis of New Jersey Holds Annual Clergy Laity Assembly and Philoptochos Convention

Westfield, NJ – On Monday, May 15, 2023, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey held its annual Clergy Laity Assembly and Philoptochos Convention at “The Venetian” in Garfield, New Jersey. Over 180 Clergy and Lay delegates representing 52 Parishes from across the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey participated in this year’s Assembly.

The Clergy Laity Assembly began with the Opening Prayer Service offered by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, together with His Grace Bishop Apostolos of Medeia and the V. Rev. Christoforos Oikonomidis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of New Jersey. Following the prayer, His Eminence recognized two of the senior Clergy of the Metropolis, the Rev. Protopresbyters Nicholas Bacalis and John Alexandrou, and on behalf of His All Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew bestowed on them the Office of the Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne.

Throughout the day, the delegates heard various reports and updates regarding the works and ministries of the Metropolis, an update on the new Archdiocesan Charter, as well as the financial reports for the Archdiocese and the Metropolis. At the same time close to 100 dedicated Philoptochos representatives gathered for their Annual Assembly where they discussed their most important philanthropic ministries and held elections for the new Metropolis of New Jersey Philoptochos board.

Later that evening, the annual Clergy Laity and Philoptochos Grand Banquet was held with over 850 faithful from throughout the sacred Metropolis of New Jersey in attendance. During the course of the banquet, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America recognized numerous dedicated Orthodox Christians from the parishes of the Northern New Jersey Region for their selfless contributions and service to their respective communities. This year the parish honorees were selected from the following eight categories: Community Honoree, Philoptochos Honoree, Most Senior Steward, Greek Education Honoree, Parish Council Honoree, Psalti/Choir Honoree, Youth Worker Honoree and Youth Honoree.