His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros
Remarks, & Benediction
March 25th Observance and Reception
March 22, 2022
Rhode Island Capitol State Room
Providence, Rhode Island
Governor McKee,
Lt. Governor Sabina Matos,
Secretary Of State Gorbea (TBC),
General Treasurer Magaziner (TBC),
Attorney General Neronha,
Senator Raptakis,
Honorable Consul General of Greece in Boston Efthymiou,
Reverend Clergy,
Dear Friends,
We have had a wonderful time today, here in the Capitol of the Ocean State, Rhode Island. You all may know that there is a supposed connection between the name of this great State and Greece. There is a theory that in 1524, the legendary explorer, Giovanni da Verrazzano, compared an island near the mouth of Narragansett Bay to the famous island of Rhodes in the Dodecanese of Greece.
Whether this is fact or fancy, it speaks to us today, as we have enjoyed the privilege of the presence of the esteemed leadership of the People of Rhode Island and their hospitality, for which we are most grateful. In expressing our gratitude, we also extend our own invitation to you, to visit us at our Archdiocese Headquarters, if ever the opportunity arises.
This celebration of March 25th has been truly inspiring, and reminds us of the weighty responsibilities to freedom that we all carry.
Winston Churchill said: “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise.”[1] Indeed, democracy has always been an evolving organism, expanding inclusion of the minority in balance with the majority. It is not an easy exercise in government, as I am certain that any of our officials could tell us. But it is the most necessary exercise of government, so that the most citizens can avail themselves of the freedom that all people desire.
The Heroes of 1821, whom we celebrated today, like the Heroes of 1776, were willing to give their “last full measure of devotion,” [2] to the cause of liberty and democracy. We should be willing to do no less. We see how the Ukrainians are fighting for their democracy, and though our shores and borders are secure, we must apply ourselves as well every day in safeguarding the values and benefits of democracy to all.
March 25th, like the Fourth of July, reminds us of the sacrifices that have given us our present liberty. And that these liberties are only secure if we conduct ourselves in the present, with a vision for the future. The participation of our young people today warms all our hearts and gives us confidence for a future where our democratic liberties are magnified and held fast.
Therefore, allow me to thank you once again, Governor McKee and all the members of the Rhode Island Government and Legislature, for honoring our community and my humble person.
We depart with gratitude and hope for our Nation and for the world.
Indeed, “Hope” is the one word on the Seal of this Great State of Rhode island. We pray that “Hope” will always direct and guide this august body in all you deliberations.
Thank you all, very much.