Rev. Dr. George Parsenios Resigns as Dean of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

After two years of admirable, devoted service as Dean of Holy Cross, Rev. Dr. George Parsenios has announced his resignation from the position, citing personal health concerns. Effective June 1, 2023, Fr. George will continue as Professor of New Testament, and will continue to contribute his unique talents to the advancement of the institution in its teaching, scholarship, and service. A formal search for the next Dean will commence immediately through an international posting, to attract the most excellent candidates to build on the work Fr. George had only just begun.

During his tenure as Dean, Fr. George led critically important initiatives at HCHC, including a review and revitalization of the Master of Divinity program. Most importantly, Fr. George served as an exceptional role model for students, faculty, and staff, in both his pastoral and academic roles.

Upon learning of Fr. George’s resignation, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America stated, “I was saddened to learn from Fr. George about his personal health concerns. Unfortunately, this will require him to step away from his duties as Dean of Holy Cross — a position that he served with the utmost dignity and respect for two years, both as a clergyman and as a distinguished New Testament scholar and professor. Nevertheless, this is the most appropriate course of action at this time for the preservation of his health and the overall well-being of his family. As he continues to teach at our School and imbue the minds of our future clergy with the sacred teachings of our Orthodox faith, I pray that he may be ever strengthened from above by the Lord to carry out this noble task always in good health and strength.”

When asked about the resignation, President George M. Cantonis said, “Fr. George’s qualifications made him a truly unique fit for the role – academically, pastorally, and personally. Replacing him will be challenging.”

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Diana Demetrulias said, “Fr. George was instrumental in bringing HCHC into a new era, and we will always honor the contributions he has made. He is a world-class scholar, an excellent priest, and a real servant leader of his fellow faculty. His departure from the role of Dean will bring new challenges, which we look forward to navigating with him as a member of our esteemed faculty.”

As he moves forward to a new role as a professor at Holy Cross, Fr. George has said, “I regret profoundly that the circumstances of my health prevent me from continuing in my role as Dean, but I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve the students of Holy Cross, and I warmly thank His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros for his blessing to do so. I offer my prayerful best wishes to the members of the faculty, to Dr. Demetrulias, and to Mr. Cantonis as they continue to lead our beloved seminary."