Announcement of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Church in America

The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America convened for its regular meeting in the Synodal Chamber at the Archdiocesan headquarters on October 15 and 16. His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America presided at the meeting, with the participation of the Members of the Synod.

The Synod deliberated extensively on many matters including the following:

1) Liturgical Matters: The Synod received the approval of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for the English translation of the text of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom and decided to proceed with its publication for the liturgical needs of parishes of the Archdiocese as well as a special publication with rubrics to be used by priests. The Synodal Committee on Liturgical Matters will continue its task of translating the texts of Vespers and Orthros into English.

2) Canonical Matters: a) The Synod deliberated on disciplinary matters regarding clergy, and the necessary decisions were made. In addition the Synod deliberated on the proper preparation of candidates to the priesthood and on the criteria for their ordination.

3) Administrative Matters: The Synod discussed a variety of administrative subjects regarding parishes and Holy Monasteries of the Holy Archdiocese.

4) Pastoral Care Matters: The Synod discussed at length matters regarding the youth and ways to reach out to them. The discussion included mention of the continuous efforts made in this direction by each of the Metropolises of the Holy Archdiocese, and relevant ideas were exchanged.

The institution of family and ways to strengthen it against the attacks of the negative influences of the modern society were also discussed.

5) Education: There was discussion on the efforts by parishes and Metropolises in regard to Day schools, Charter schools and Afternoon schools that are operating in each Holy Metropolis of the Holy Archdiocese of America as well as on ways to improve them.

With respect to the Theological School of Holy Cross, Brookline, MA, and Hellenic College, the efforts that have been made for the Greek Education of the students were discussed. These efforts include: a) the evaluation of the curriculum of the Greek language, b) the increase of laboratory hours and staff for the learning of the language, c) the financial support to students with financial need and d) assistance to students through tutoring lessons.

In conclusion, during the meeting, the Synod nominated thee persons for the election of an Auxiliary Bishop who will serve under His Eminence the Archbishop of America and will assist with the needs of the Holy Metropolis of San Francisco. The list of three names will be submitted to the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for the election of the Auxiliary Bishop.

The two-day meeting of the Synod concluded on Thursday, October 16, at noon, and immediately afterwards, the Members of the Synod departed for the Hilton Hotel in order to participate in the meetings of the Archdiocesan Council.

On Saturday, October 18, at 12:00 pm, the Members of the Synod will participate in the historic event of the Agiasmos and Ground Blessing for the rebuilding of the Saint Nicholas Church at Ground Zero, which was destroyed during the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. This church will become a National Shrine and a witness of love, hope and victory of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Orthodox Faith.

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