ARCHIEPISCOPAL ENCYCLICAL

Prot. No. 37/10

To the Reverend Clergy
of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

Christ is risen from the dead, by
death trampling down death, and
to those in the tombs bestowing life

Dearly Beloved, 

CHRIST IS RISEN! 

Saturday, April 10th marks the close of a blessed chapter in the history of the Holy Archdiocese of America for it is the 5th Anniversary of the falling asleep of our revered and beloved predecessor, the late Archbishop Iakovos. From the moment he arrived on the shores of this nation in the Spring of 1939, His Eminence labored long and hard, leading our community from its immigrant roots into the mainstream of American society. A champion of civil and religious rights throughout the years, he faithfully served with distinction and exemplary dedication as Primate of North and South America for over 37 years and truly, in the words of St. Paul he fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7).   

In recognition of this Anniversary, I would kindly ask that all of the parishes of our Holy Archdiocese of America offer a 5 year Memorial Service at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, April 18th beseeching the Almighty to grant eternal rest to the soul of this tireless worker in the Vineyard of our Lord. Let this be not only an opportunity to pray for his eternal repose but also an occasion to thank God for blessing our Church with such a distinguished clergyman who touched the lives of countless individuals.  May his memory be eternal!                     

With love and esteem in
the Risen Lord,

+ DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America