Archbishop Elpidophoros Visits Annunciation Church in Sacramento
On February 26, 2023, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, together with His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Annunciation Church in Sacramento. In its announcement to the parishioners of the visit of Archbishop Elpidophoros, the community noted, that it has been over 50 years since Archbishop Iakovos of blessed memory visited the parish in May of 1971. At the conclusion of the service Fr. James Retelas was elevated to the rank of Protopresbyter of Ecumenical Throne.
Following the Divine Liturgy a community luncheon was held to benefit the humanitarian relief efforts in Türkiye and Syria. Fr. James Retelas, Fr. Timothy Robinson and the presidents of the Parish Council and Philoptochos presented a generous donation of $20,000 to the Archbishop for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Earthquake Relief Fund. In receiving the donation the Archbishop said, “As we quickly approach the beginning of Holy and Great Lent tomorrow, you have reminded us that the alms of Christian philanthropy are as much a part of our Lenten journey as are the privations of fasting. And our hearts must be open to those we can see, and those whom we cannot see. To those we know, and those whom we do not know. To those far off, as well as those nearby. Thank you for your loving gift. Thank you for your generous spirit. And thank you for your Christian conscience and charitable sensitivity, which extend with compassion and mercy toward all people.” (full text)
Photos: Kostas Petrakos