His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros

Remarks at the Groundbreaking

May 19, 2024

Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

Merrick, New York

 

Beloved in the Risen Lord,

Dear Protopresbyter Nikiforos,

President Nikos Poulikidis and Members of the Parish Council,

Beloved Sisters of the Philoptochos,

Esteemed Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate,

Honored Members of Leadership 100,

Dear Parishioners of Saint Demetrios,

 

Χριστὸς Ἀνέστη! 

Christ is Risen!

What a marvelous afternoon to break ground for this vital addition to this wonderful parish dedicated to Saint Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer! Breaking ground for the Constantine and Carol Cassis Center is more than a symbolic act. It is a step of deep belief and a sign of hope for a better future

Like every farmer who breaks open the earth to plant the seeds that will grow and nourish the world, you are planting seeds today that will yield a harvest, as the Lord said, even to a hundredfold.*

As your Archbishop, I know that you will water and nurture the seeds you are planting with this Groundbreaking. For the seeds I see, are the faces of the beloved people of this Parish – young and old alike.

Our Church buildings and facilities are not mere institutional structures. They are our homes. Where we gather as one family in Christ. Where we grow as the Body of Christ. Where we assemble as the Ἐκκλησία of God. And where we welcome others into our presence – with love, compassion, acceptance, and understanding.

Therefore, my beloved friends:

Let us cultivate this wonderful field here in Merrick on the Long Island of New York. Let us grow a harvest of community service and ministry that is based in love and mercy. And let us always welcome the strangers into our midst, and make them our friends.

Congratulations to all!

Χριστὸς Ἀνέστη!