NEW YORK – March 16, 2018
ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE HOLY EPARCHIAL SYNOD
The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America convened its regular meeting at the Synodal chamber of the Holy Archdiocese in New York on March 15 and 16, 2018, presided by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios Geron of America.
The Synod reviewed all the topics of its agenda: liturgical, canonical, administrative, pastoral, inter Orthodox and educational. Following extensive deliberations the Synod took appropriate decisions.
The Holy Synod had the opportunity to meet once again with the Director of the Youth Department of the Holy Archdiocese, Mr. Steven Christoforou, and review for the final time the Regulations for the Protection of Children, which subsequently were approved by the Synod. This program will be implemented by the parishes of the Holy Archdiocese within the next two years.
The meeting with Mr. Steven Christoforou included also extensive discussion about Young Adults (ages 18-35) and ways to reach out to them. Noteworthy is that recently there is an increase of efforts and formation of new groups of Young Adults in each Metropolis of the Archdiocese. It was also noted that the parishes must intensify the spiritual aspect in the youth programs besides the athletic, dance and cultural programs.
For the financial situation, it was said that the financial audit continues and it is foreseen that due to the reduction of the personnel of the Archdiocese and the efforts for better management, the Archdiocese will have a surplus for the current year of two million dollars, which will be applied toward the payable obligations. In addition His Eminence shared with members of the Synod details regarding efforts of the Archdiocese in obtaining a loan to fulfill her financial obligations.
The members of the Synod had the opportunity to discuss issues related to the organization and programs of the upcoming Clergy Laity Congress in Boston Massachusetts, July 2-5, 2018 with the theme, Everything is possible to the one who believes in Christ, (see Mark 9:23). It was also decided that all presentations at the Clergy Laity Congress will be done in full transparency. Furthermore, a panel discussion will take place led by expert panelists on the subject of Youth and Family.
Following the conclusion of the meeting of the Synod, the members of the Synod participated in the meeting of the Executive Committee of the Archdiocesan Council.
From the Office of the Holy Eparchial Synod
