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Advocates of Religious Freedom for The Ecumenical

A HISTORICAL MOVE First time Ecumenical Patriarch attends installation of Pope in Rome 2

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Editor & Graphic Designer: John J. Mindala II 6 UP CLOSE WITH THE PRESIDENT His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarch, and Father Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate: Alexander Karloutsos, Archon Spiritual Advisor, participated in events for the 57th His Eminence Inauguration of the President of the United States. Archbishop Demetrios of America

Spiritual Advisor: Rev. Alexander Karloutsos

Executive Committee National Commander: Anthony J. Limberakis, MD, Aktouarios

National Vice Commander: J. Bouras, Depoutatos 8 HALKI SEMINARY The Orthodox Theological School Secretary: of Halki, forcibly closed since 1971, John Halecky, Jr., Ekdikos is making chatter again–this time, Treasurer: from the Turkish Deputy Prime James C. Fountas, Depoutatos Minister who voiced his support of 7 SECRETARY OF STATE KERRY VISITS PHANAR its reopening Top U.S. Diplomat voices support for the reopening of Halki during his first visit to the Phanar Functionaries Legal Counselor: Christopher Stratakis, Esq., Notarios 16 FROM HARVARD TO MOUNT ATHOS Historian: George E. Demacopoulos, PhD Father Maximos of Mount Didaskalos Tou Genous Athos offers reflections during the Annual Archon Lenten Sergeant-at-Arms: Retreat at NJ Metropolis HQ Alexander Pritsos, Hieromnimon

ASSISTANT TREASURER: MANGINAS NICHOLAS PANAGOS; DIMITRIOS ARCHON M.D.; LIMBERAKIS, J. ANTHONY : Andreas D. Comodromos, CPA

12 ARCHON JOHN A. CATSIMATIDIS Dikaiophylax credit ANNOUNCES NYC MAYORAL RUN hoto Our chairman of the Archon Religious Freedom Committee The Archon is published by the Order of announced that he is seeking the Saint Andrew, Archons of the Ecumenical 19 CANADIAN VISIT Patriarchate in America. Members are Republican nomination for mayor encouraged to submit material pertaining of New York City The Order’s Executive to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Committee meets with His . All material should be typed and submitted electronically. The editor Eminence Metropolitan reserves the right to edit all material Sotirios and Archons of the submitted for publication. ©2013 Canadian region

OrderStAndrew COVER PHOTO CREDIT: L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO. P ROMANO. L’OSSERVATORE CREDIT: PHOTO COVER archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 3

The Extraordinary Historical Significance of His All-Holiness’ Presence at Pope Francis’ Installation as Bishop of Rome

By George E. Demacopoulos, PhD Archon Didaskalos tou Genous Historian for the Order of Saint Andrew Orthodox Christian Studies Center, Fordham University

mid the crush of news reports in the past month that fol- lowed Pope Benedict’s unprecedented resignation from the papacy, one of the most intriguing was the decision by His All-Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, to at- tendA Pope Francis’ installation as Bishop of Rome. The occasion is being presented in the media as something that has not happened since the ecclesiastical schism that separated Christian East and Christian West in the eleventh century. But that characterization is almost certainly wrong—this is quite likely the first time in history that a Bishop of will attend the installation of a Bishop of Rome. And this is a profoundly bold step in ecumenical relations between the Orthodox and the Roman Catholics, one that could have lasting significance. Prior to the sixth century, the election of a Roman bishop was a local affair. In most cases, the new pope was chosen from among the city’s and was typically either the eldest priest or the eldest . There were a few exceptions, but this was the typical pattern. News of an election would circulate throughout the Christian world but that news flow would have been too slow to enable high-ranking officials from the East to travel to Rome for the event. During the sixth century, Byzantine armies conquered the Italian peninsula, returning the city of Rome to the imperial Roman gov- ernment, now centered in Constantinople. In this context, which lasted from the mid-sixth century until the loss of Byzantine influ- ence in Italy in the eighth century, the election of a new Roman bishop required the approval of the Byzantine emperor (the same, of course, was true of the election of a new Ecumenical Patriarch). Under such an arrangement, papal elections took longer but there : L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO L’OSSERVATORE : still would be no reason for an Eastern Patriarch to travel to Rome

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

On Wednesday, March 20, His All-Holiness met privately with Pope Francis at the Vatican prior to a papal reception of all church and religious leaders, below, where the Ecumenical Patriarch delivered the sole address to the newly-installed Pope. The Patriarch’s attendance at the papal inaugural mass was a historic initiative on the part of Patriarch Bartholomew inasmuch as it was the first time in history that an Ecumenical Patriarch was personally present at a papal installation.

There are a few examples from distant—indeed, between the this Byzantine period, such as ninth and fifteenth century there the election of Pope Pelagius I are only one or two occasions in 556, where the man elected where a Roman bishop and an to be the Roman bishop was Ecumenical Patriarch ever met actually in Constantinople at the in person. time of his election. While it is With all of this in mind, His possible that the sacramental All-Holiness’ decision to travel ceremony to install the new to Rome for Pope Francis’ pope could have occurred in installation as Roman bishop Constantinople—whereby the is an extraordinary event in the Patriarch of Constantinople history of . And it would have been present—it is is significant for reasons far far more likely that the official beyond its novelty. First and ceremony would have occurred foremost it is a powerful sym- in Rome and, therefore, would bolic gesture for the cause of have been conducted without Ecumenical Patriarch has taken though the Orthodox and the Christian unity. It demonstrates the Patriarch’s presence. this unprecedented step. Roman Catholic traditions have in unprecedented fashion the a renewed opportunity to work At the conclusion of Byzantine extent to which the Ecumenical The Christian world has been di- collectively on issues of mutual influence in papal elections in Patriarch considers the relation- vided for so long that the estab- concern. With our Lord’s as- the eighth century, the election ship with the Roman Catholic lishment of an authentic reunion sistance, that common cause of Roman bishops returned, Church to be a priority. For will require courage, leadership, can be transformed into more again, to local considerations. their part, members of the and humility. It will also require a substantive theological work. And, as geo-political factors Vatican staff have responded foundation in common faith and But such work requires a first continued to push Italy and to this grand gesture and have concerns. Given Pope Francis’ step and it would appear as

the Eastern empire in separate arranged for the reading of the well-documented work for so- ROMANO L’OSSERVATORE : though Ecumenical Patriarch directions, relations between Gospel at the installation to be cial justice and his insistence Bartholomew is willing to take individual popes and patri- sung in Greek (rather than Latin) that globalization is detrimental credit such a step. 

archs became more sterile and in recognition of the fact that the to the poor, it would appear as hoto P archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 5

ORTHODOX & CATHOLIC RELATIONS Statement at the announcement of The Retirement of Pope Benedict XVI

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

Istanbul – Upon being informed on the way to his native island Churches (established in 1980 and interrupted in 2000). Immediately of Imvros of the imminent retirement of Pope Benedict from the upon his election, His Holiness Pope Benedict accepted a formal Petrine ministry on the Throne of Rome, Ecumenical Patriarch invitation from His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Bartholomew issued a formal declaration and personal statement to visit the Phanar in November, 2006, on the occasion of the to the media, responding with sadness to the news. His All-Holiness Patronal Feast of the Church of Constantinople. He also invited the closely cooperated with Pope Benedict during his papal tenure, Ecumenical Patriarch to deliver the only address by an ecumenical issuing joint statements on contemporary problems facing human- leader during the official celebrations in St. Peter’s Square for the ity and realizing official exchange visits, but above all resuming in 50th Anniversary since the opening of the 2nd Vatican Council in 2007 the conversations of the Joint International Commission for October, 2012. Below is the text of the formal statement by His Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox and Roman Catholic All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.

t is with regret that we have learned of the decision by His Holiness Pope Benedict to retire from his Throne, Ibecause with his wisdom and experience he could have provided much more to the Church and the world. Pope Benedict leaves an indelible mark on the life and history of the Roman Catholic Church, sealed not only by his brief papacy, but also by his broad and longstanding contribution as a theologian and hierarch of his Church, as well as his universally acknowledged prestige. His writings will long speak of his deep theological understanding, through his knowledge of the Fathers of the undivided Church, his familiarity with contem- porary reality, and his keen interest in the problems of humankind. We Orthodox will always honor him as a friend of our Church and a faithful servant of the sacred proposition for the union of all. Moreover, we shall rejoice upon learning of his sound health and the productivity of his theological work. Personally, we remember with emotion his visit to the See of the Ecumenical Patriarchate over six years ago, together with the numerous encounters and excellent cooperation, which we enjoyed throughout the duration of his primatial ministry. From the Phanar, we pray that the Lord will manifest his worthy successor as the head of the sister Church of Rome, and that we may also continue with this succes- sor on our common journey toward the unity of all unto the glory of God. : L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO L’OSSERVATORE : HIs All-Holiness with Pope Benedict at The

credit Vatican, October 11, 2012, on the occasion of the celebration in Rome of the 50th anniversary since hoto

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Archbishop Demetrios and Father Alexander Karloutsos, Archon spiritual advisor, attend the Inauguration of President .

Inauguration of the Presidentof theand United StatesVice President

His Eminence attended the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Luncheon Archbishop Demetrios as he enters the National Cathedral for the and offered the benediction following the President’s toast. Prayer Service. ; ap photo

– His Eminence Mehiel and George Tsunis, who were hon- official ceremonies, His Eminence attended

Washington, D.C. anagos Archbishop Demetrios, Exarch of the ored by His Eminence with the Medal of the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Luncheon Ecumenical Patriarch, participated in events Saint Paul, the highest honor of the Greek and offered the benediction following

for the 57th Inauguration of the President Orthodox Archdiocese of America. President Obama’s toast. imitrios P of the United States. On January 20, Archbishop Demetrios attended the swear- On January 22, His Eminence participated 2013, Vice President Joe Biden attended rchon D

ing-in ceremony and the President’s in the National Inaugural Prayer Service in : A an Inaugural reception in honor of His Inaugural Address the next day, from the the Capital’s National Cathedral with the Eminence and in recognition of the extraor- presidential platform, just a few feet away President, Vice President and the Members dinary public service of three distinguished  from the podium. Immediately following the of the U.S. Congress in attendance. hoto credit individuals, Jim Chanos, Archons Dennis P archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 7

PATRIARCHAL NEWS

The Secretary of State is greeted by His All-Holiness during his visit to the Phanar. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry visits the Ecumenical Patriarchate

Istanbul – On Sunday, April 21, 2013, rights for religious minorities in the new in interfaith understanding is a great, great U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry met constitution it is currently drafting. privilege for me. And I want to thank you so with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch much, Your Holiness. Mr. Kerry also remarked, saying “It’s such Bartholomew for an hour-long visit at the a privilege to talk with somebody who has “Thank you for my reception. And he gave Ecumenical Patriarchate. Among those in been such a voice for tolerance, a voice for me a beautiful rosary that the Pope gave attendance during the meeting were His interfaith understanding, who most recently him that’s been blessed by the Pope and Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos of New visited with His Holiness Pope Francis and by him, and I will carry that with great, great Jersey, His Excellency Ambassador Francis was at his investiture, and who has consis- privilege.” J. Ricciardone, U.S. Ambassador to the tently talked out about protecting rights of Republic of , the Hon. Scott Frederic In turn, His All-Holiness expressed his minorities, protecting religious rights, and Kilner, U.S. Consul General in Istanbul, gratitude to Mr. Kerry, while also conveying who is struggling for larger understanding and Archon Laki Vingas, representative his fervent prayers for the victims of the in the world. to the Turkish government for Minority Boston Marathon tragedy and the people Foundations. “He is also an ardent environmentalist of Massachusetts. and has been honored by any number of Secretary of State Kerry assured His All- The Ecumenical Patriarch accompanied universities, including our great University Holiness of the ongoing and unwavering Secretary of State Kerry to the Patriarchal of Tufts in Massachusetts, with honorary support of the United States for religious Church of St. George and to the memorial degrees. He has a great following. I have freedom and the reopening of the Orthodox gate of Patriarch V. many, many of his flock that I was privileged Theological School of Halki. “It is our hope to represent for years in Massachusetts and that the Halki seminary will open,” Kerry Mr. Kerry follows a long tradition established have attended Orthodox services in Lowell, said during a press conference in Istanbul. by former First Lady and Secretary of State Massachusetts and other places, in Boston. Both the United States and the European Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has visited the Phanar on three occasions, followed : NICHOLAS MANGINAS NICHOLAS : Union, which Turkey aspires to join, have “So for me to visit here with this protec- by former Secretary of State Madeleine increased pressure on Ankara to re-open tor of the rights of people to practice their  credit Albright. the seminary as well as introducing further religion and to try to bring people together hoto P 8 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013 International Herald Tribune HALKI SEMINARY NEWS Minority Rites Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew found out Andrew Finkel about commission on Halki through media Istanbul – Ecumenical Orthodox or [Adnan] Menderes. It was shut Istanbul–The Princes' Islands are seminary and the Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I in İstanbul down in 1971 [the year of the March a chain of volcanic droplets off orphanage on the hilltop of the next has said he learned that a special 12 military coup] when there was a the coast of Istanbul, famous for island. commission was set up to decide politically extraordinary situation in their grand Palladian-style wooden The Turkish government itself seems the fate of the Halki Seminary, Ankara. And we have been given summer homes and sweet-smelling pine woods. From one of the hilltops eager to improve relations with the which has been closed for more false hopes so many times since 3,000 Greek Orthodox and other than four decades, from newspa- that day. We have been waiting of the second-largest, , "the saddle-bagged" island, the non-Muslims who live in Turkey and pers. for our school to their powerful lobbyists abroad. The reopen for 42 view across the water is of a me- The patriarch, tropolis in motion, growing higher Turkish foreign minister and minister “It is not easy to years. Where of education say that Halki should referred to as is our school? and wider, eating into more and understand how a house more green space every year. But reopen; the United States and the the Fener Rum Where is our of knowledge can remain on Heybeliada itself, the only dis- European Commission regularly patriarch in the freedom of re- shut for 42 years in a tractions are the squawk of seagulls push for the same. Turkish press ligion? Where modern Turkey.” and the clip-clop of horse-drawn because au- is our freedom And yet the Halki seminary remains carriages (no cars allowed). There, thorities find the –His All-Holiness of education? closed. word “ecumeni- it is easy to imagine that time has Where are hu- stood still. Why? I think the explanation has cal” politically man rights? Where threatening, spoke to the Milliyet nothing to do with vestigial resent- is [the Treaty of] Lausanne?” The In a way, history has indeed been ment between Turks and Greeks daily in an interview published on patriarch said that the Lausanne frozen on Heybeliada since 1971. and everything to do with the gov- Sunday. Bartholomew commented Treaty clearly states that non- This was the year when the Turkish ernment's care not to alienate on developments regarding the Muslim minorities in Turkey can government imposed a form of mar- mainstream Islam. Halki Seminary, which was es- open schools providing religious tial law and shut down educational tablished in 1844 on the island education using their own funds. institutions not under state con- The problem with reopening the of Heybeliada. The seminary was He also noted, “We don’t want trol. The hilltop seminary, the Holy Halki seminary is that if Greek Orthodox priests are allowed to be closed in 1971 under a law that put a new school, we just want our Theological School of Halki, which trained there again, in an institu- religious and military training under school to start operating again.” had since the mid-19th century state control. trained generation after generation tion outside the state's control, the The patriarch also commented on of Greek Orthodox priests, was Turkish government could come It was the only school where preparations to open a new Greek closed. Later, some of its land was under pressure to extend that right Turkey’s Greek minority edu- School on Gökçeada (Imbros), an confiscated. to Muslims. cated clergy. The theological island in the Aegean Sea off the The rest of Turkey has changed a The current government very much school once trained generations of coast of Çanakkale province. The Greek Orthodox leaders, including lot in the intervening years. In 1999, represents the Sunni mainstream. Ministry of Education last month twin earthquakes on either side of Last week Prime Minister Recep Patriarch Bartholomew, who is one gave permission to the Greek com- of its 900 graduates. the Aegean Sea produced a rap- Tayyip Erdogan insisted that the munity of the island to open a pri- prochement between Turks and halls where Alevis -- Turkey's Shiites Civil society groups have long mary school on Gökçeada. He also Greeks, and much longstanding and 15 percent of the population been arguing that it was closed said it was good news that Prime bitterness -- the result of earlier con- -- congregate are mere cultural unlawfully and that its reopening Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan flicts in the Aegean and in Cyprus centers, not places of worship. will require political will to bypass offered Turkish citizenship to a -- dissipated. The implication is that real Muslims obstacles from anti-EU groups in number of archbishops in 2009, Turkey no longer argues that it pray in mosques and under the gov- Turkey, but steps in that direction allowing all these individuals to should limit the rights of Turkish ernment's watchful eyes, like those have so far been slow. participate in patriarchal elections. citizens who are Greek Orthodox, tit- of the powerful and well-funded Bartholomew said: “We are very “We are grateful to our prime for-tat, because the Greek govern- Presidency of Religious Affairs, sorry about this. It is not easy minister. But the other issues that ment does the same. In any event, which licenses after-school Koranic to understand how a house of I have talked about are wearing Athens has ceded far more rights courses, administers Turkey's quota for sending pilgrims on the hajj and knowledge can remain shut for 42 us out, saddening us. This is also to the Turkish Muslims of Thrace, pays the clerics who prepare the years in a modern Turkey.” He said creating an impression that we lifting restrictions on the sale and weekly sermon. the Patriarchate had been given are second-class citizens. For repair of property. example, ambassadors, foreign false hopes many times about a But the Halki seminary remains Turkey, formally a secular democ- prime ministers and presidents possible re-opening of the school. closed. racy, may want to become more “Recently, we read in the Hürriyet come to visit [the Patriarchate] and liberal toward its religious minori- daily that a new commission was they enquire about our situation. Meanwhile, the die-hard, anti- ties, but not at the risk of tolerating established, but we are learn- When we explain to them the facts, Greek stance of Turkish officialdom more diversity within the Muslim ing about this from the media. they find it hard to understand. I has softened. Turkish courts have mainstream. There is no representative of the don’t want to put Turkey down, I tell started returning land that had been seized -- illegally, they say -- from And so the Halki seminary remains Patriarchate on this commission. It them the facts just like I am telling non-Muslim religious foundations, closed.  is as if we are not a party relevant them now.” including land around the Halki to this issue.” He also said there was a time when He said of the Halki Seminary: the Foreign Ministry tried to block “[Mustafa Kemal] Atatürk didn’t visits from foreign delegations to Andrew Finkel has been a foreign correspondent in Istanbul for over shut it down, nor did [İsmet] İnönü the Patriarchate.  20 years, as well as a columnist for Turkish-language newspapers. He is the author of the book "Turkey: What Everyone Needs to Know." archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 9

HALKI SEMINARY NEWS 470 acres of forest given back to Halki Seminary The biggest property return to a minority group in the history of Turkey

Heybeliada – Following a Triada Monastery Foundation. cluding the current Patriarch return all confiscated immov- meeting held on Friday, the This is the biggest property Bartholomew, who is one of its able property belonging to Council of Foundations–part return to a minority group in the 900 graduates. minority foundations in Turkey, of Turkey’s Directorate General history of Turkey. a long-overdue step towards Minority foundations, seeking for Foundations (VGM)–re- expanding the rights of minori- Established in 1844 on the the return of property seized turned 190 hectares of for- ties in the country. The decree island of Heybeliada, Halki by the Turkish state in the first est to the Greek Orthodox allows foundations to reclaim Seminary was closed in 1971 decade of the Turkish Republic, Halki (Heybeliada) Seminary in real property declared back in under a law that placed religious are finding that taking back İstanbul. 1936. All real property, cem- and military training under state what belongs to them is not eteries and fountains are to be According to the decision, 190 control. It was the only school going to be easy, despite a 2011 returned to their rightful holders hectares (470 acres) of wood- where Turkey’s Greek minor- law passed to ensure confis- as per the decree. Immoveable lands near the Halki Seminary ity educated its clergy. The cated property be returned to property currently belonging to will be given to the seminary’s theological school once trained its rightful owners. third persons will be paid for. owner, the Aya generations of Greek Orthodox In August of last year, the The process has been ongoing leaders, in- Justice and Development for some time, as foundations Party (AK Party) government were given 12 months to apply adopted legislation to to authorities. 

Berlin – Deputy Prime Minister Bülent Arınç said the Halki Seminary should be reopened to educate clerics for the Orthodox community, saying “minorities have the same rights as us” while speaking at a conference in Berlin on March 5, 2013. His All- Holiness received the Deputy Prime Minister at the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Jan. 11, 2011. We accept that there is a necessity for clerics in “We do not return these as a favor. These were the Heybeliada Halki Seminary for the Greek Orthodox already yours, but taken from you in some ways. We Patriarch or the Orthodox community, and a school is manginas see this as a humanitarian right, a holy value of your needed for these [clerics] to be educated. We know there belief. We apologize to all of you for those things that “are [those needs]. Therefore, this school certainly has to : nicholas : happened in the past.” be opened and clerics should be educated here again.”

credit – Concerning articles being added to the Foundations Law – Responding to a question from for the return of property to minority communities. hoto

P Metropolitan Augustinos of Germany at a Berlin conference 10 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM NEWS

The following article was published on the Hellenic American Leadership Council’s website: hellenicleaders.com

Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou // Celebrating Freedom in America Missing Freedom in Turkey

Washington, D.C. – Today less civil-rights activist and widow of minorities is especially shocking and is a day of both celebra- Medgar Evans, who was murdered in raises serious doubts about the suit- tion and remembrance in Mississippi in 1963 for championing ability of Turkey as a model for Muslim America. The inaugura- school desegregation and voting rights democracies in the Middle East and tion in Washington of for all American citizens. North Africa. In fact, in a region where Barack Hussein Obama Christians are fast being cleansed There is almost a providential feel to for a second term as the from their historic lands of origin, today’s tableau of America, which 44th President of the Turkey is a standard-bearer in the conveys an inspirational message United States of America eradication of its Christian populations. that the United States stands for uni- coincides with MLK Day, The estimated 1750 Greek Orthodox versal human rights--rights intrinsic the holiday of remembrance Christians remaining in Turkey today to every human being, regardless of for American civil-rights form less than .01 percent of that race, gender, religion, or belief--and, Martin Luther King, Jr., who was country’s total population of almost likewise, that hatred manifested in assassinated in Tennessee in 1968 80 million. Despite Ankara’s much violence in America is unlawful and because of his non-violent campaign ballyhooed announcement last week will be met by justice for all. The mov- to ensure freedom and equality for all that the Turkish state will return 470 ing symbolisms in today’s presidential American citizens. For the first time in acres of forestlands to the Ayia Triada inauguration should also remind the the country’s history, the invocation Monastery, the illegal confiscation of new administration that the legitimacy at the presidential inauguration will that land long ago from the Ecumenical and security of the United States of be delivered by a lay person and a Patriarchate and the 40-year shutter- America demands resolute commit- woman, Myrlie Edgar-Williams, tire- ing of the Halki Theological Seminary ment to the promotion of human rights leave no doubt about Turkey’s goal of in US foreign policy, both in terms of erasing the living presence of Greek our own actions and in terms of our Orthodox Christians from Turkey. cooperation with those countries that Despite Ankara’s we identify as allies. On this count, The condition of Turkey’s Armenian the Obama administration faces un- Christian population (about 65,000, much ballyhooed palatable realities and serious choice a remnant of the historic Armenian announcement last week that when it comes to the US relationship Orthodox population wiped out by the with Turkey. genocide marking the foundation of the Turkish state will return the Republic of Turkey) adds a charge Turkey’s actions and records on hu- to the indictment against Turkey as man rights offer an ugly contrast to 470 acres of forestlands to a model democracy. Ankara’s direct the sacrifices and accomplishments interference in the election of an interim the Ayia Triada Monastery, the remembered and celebrated today Armenian Patriarch in 2010 mirrors in America. In Turkey, religious mi- illegal confiscation of that land the general pattern in government norities are subjected to state policies, interference in the internal affairs of long ago from the Ecumenical whether by omission or commission, all religious communities--including that earned the country a spot on Patriarchate and the 40- the Sunni Muslim majority and size- the Countries of Particular Concern able minority of Alewites comprising year shuttering of the Halki (CPC) list of the US Commission about 20% of Turkey’s population. on International Religious Freedom Theological Seminary leave Two recent liturgical celebrations at the (USCIRF). Turkey’s company on this Armenian Orthodox Akhtamar Church no doubt about Turkey’s goal list includes countries like Iran, Saudi in Van have been used as public rela- Arabia, Sudan, and China, all mem- of erasing the living presence tions spectacles by Ankara, in order bers of the world pantheon of most to divert attention from the reality of egregious violators of international of Greek Orthodox Christians its stranglehold on free worship for the religious freedom. from Turkey. country’s Christian minorities. The treatment of Turkey’s Christian Today, in Turkey, Christian religious archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 11

leaders describe themselves Turkish state with insults to Islam. as “feeling crucified” and their The criminalization of dissent Metropolis of Chicago Archons communities as “endangered against citizens who dare speak species.” The tragic results of about human rights--especially announce Illinois state-wide Ankara’s policies to eradicate when these touch on free- Christianity from its lands of ori- campaign in support of religious dom of conscience, belief, gin are shockingly evident in the religion, speech, and press- northern part of Cyprus under freedom for the Mother Church -explains why Turkey today occupation by Turkey’s military continues to be identified by since its invasion in 1974. The the International Committee to Chicago – Acting with the selves as the Friends of the systematic looting, desecration, Protect Journalists, as well as blessings of His Eminence Ecumenical Patriarchate of and destruction of the Greek Human Rights Watch, amongst Metropolitan Iakovos, a group Constantinople. Included in this Orthodox churches, monaster- others, as one of the world’s of Greek Orthodox Clergy and group are Frank and Katena ies, and cemeteries in Turkish- worst violators of speech and parishioners have undertaken Lagouros, John and Maria occupied Cyprus has been rep- press freedoms. The blasphemy a vigorous campaign to enact Ackerman, George Manias and licated in the Turkish military’s trial against renowned Turkish a Religious Freedom resolution Emanuel Manias. Coordinating assaults on Roman Catholic, pianist Fazil Say will continue in support of the Ecumenical the effort on behalf of the Order Armenian, and Maronite sites; in next month in Turkey, and mean- Patriarchate in the Illinois state of St. Andrew the Apostle is Turkish-occupied Cyprus, there while, last week marked the sixth senate. The resolution has been Archon Regional Commander are less than 400 Christians (the anniversary of the murder of introduced as SR 70. Harold Peponis. tiny enclave of elderly Greek Hrant Dink, the Armenian editor Cypriots) remaining in the lands Almost 6 years ago the Illinois Among many expressions of of the Turkish-Armenian news- to which St. Andrew brought House of Representatives ad- support, the group has re- paper, who fearlessly advocated Christianity. opted such a resolution, but ceived not only an endorsement for equal rights for religious and the senate failed to address the from the Executive Committee As for other civil liberties in ethnic minority rights and recon- matter. This year’s effort is in- of the Council of Religious Turkey, while Americans today ciliation in Turkey. International tended to complete the project Leaders of the Metropolis of are mindful of Martin Luther human rights organizations King, Jr.’s words that “our lives and some Turkish rights groups in that state. Chicago but also a personal en- dorsement from His Eminence begin to end the day we be- maintain that there is exten- Leading the effort is His Grace Cardinal Francis George, the come silent about things that sive evidence to implicate the Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Roman Catholic Archbishop of matter,” an avalanche of legal Turkish government and the the Chancellor of the Metropolis Chicago. cases against journalists, intel- ruling Justice and Development of Chicago, and an active group lectuals, and artists in Turkey Party (JDP) in Dink’s murder, but of Greek Orthodox lay leaders To date, 16 senators have shows Ankara’s unflinching 18 defendants were acquitted who have organized them- agreed to co-sponsor the reso- efforts to silencing those who and only 1 was convicted last lution.  speak about things that matter year in what is widely seen as a for the application of universal kangaroo trial. human rights. This past week, When Americans turn out their Turkish police rounded up an- lights tonight after a day of cele- other group of journalists and bration and remembrance, after lawyers suspected of sympa- a day honoring our democratic thizing with violent groups and principles and process with the terrorists--code for journalists presidential inauguration and who write in support of civil and the MLK federal holiday, we political rights for the Kurkish would do well to recall the old minority estimated at 20-25% adage that goes as follows: “tell of Turkey’s population. Article me who your friends are and 301 of the Constitution exercises I’ll tell you who you are.” This a chilling effect on freedom of simple saying should apply to speech and freedom of the the sophisticated practice of US press, by prohibiting “insults to foreign policy, especially when the Turkish state.” Used mainly it comes to choosing our allies. to muzzle non-Muslim minorities The value of Turkey as an ally to by the secularist Kemalists who the US as we champion human ruled Turkey almost uninterrupt- rights and protect our strategic edly until the general election interests cannot rely on military of 2002, Article 301 is now be- calculations alone. ing interpreted by the Islamist government of Prime Minister The new administration in Erdogan to charge violations Washington should take uni- of free speech as blasphemy, versal human rights standards a worrying trend that suggests into account in assessing the the identification of insults to the future of US-Turkey relations. A private reception with Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, top. On the floor of the Illinois State Senate, above. 12 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013 ArchonTABLE OF CONTENTS John Catsimatidis runs for mayor of NYC

New York – Archon John A. Today I filed an exploratory committee for the 2013 New York City Mayoral election. Catsimatidis, member of the I do this because I love New York City. Order’s governing body, the National Council and chair- I came to this country as an infant from Nisyros, a small island in Greece. We lived in a poor area of man of the Archon Religious New York City on 135th street with my father’s extended family while he worked as a waiter. Freedom Committee stood on the steps of City Hall on In 1968, while still a college student, I opened the first of many supermarkets which are now located January 29, 2013, and an- all over the City. Since that time I have added a number of successful enterprises to my portfolio not nounced that he would seek the least of which is a major East coast petroleum refining facility and more recently significant real the Republican nomination estate developments in the City. I am very proud to say, this has led to the creation of jobs, thousands for mayor of New York City. of jobs, over the years. Archon John issued a personal I say this to point out the City of New York has been very good to me and my family and the time statement in December 2012 has come to give back. regarding this extraordinary public service endeavor for My life has always been centered around my family, my faith and my community. which we, the Archons of the New York City has made great strides in recent years and I want to ensure its continued success. Order of Saint Andrew, convey A great deal of the City’s success is due to the faith business leaders all over the world place in the our heartfelt congratulations City’s leaders. The world brings its business to New York City because we understand with business and best wishes to the entire come jobs and with jobs a better life for all of us. Catsimatidis Family. I believe the Mayor of New York must be pro-business and at the same time possess the humanitarian feelings which keep this great melting pot working together, but most of all, the Mayor must be fair. Whether dealing with unions, corporations or the individual taxpayers, fairness will be the underlying theme of my every action. As I embark on this quest, I know it will be a great learning experience for me. Over the next months anagos

I will meet with educators, law enforcement, city services operators and taxpayers in every corner P of the City.

In the end, I hope New Yorkers will like what I have to offer; a common sense, level headed businessman D imitrios with a proven record of success and a personal understanding what is like to yearn for a better life. rchon

New York City is the greatest city on earth and my intention is to keep that way. A :

[Personal statement submitted December 2012] credit hoto P archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 13

REGIONAL NEWS Detroit Archons host Religious Freedom Symposium

Detroit – On Saturday, March 30, 2013, the Order of Saint Andrew's Detroit region hosted a religious Regional freedom symposium at Saint George Greek Commander Orthodox Church in Southgate, MI. The event Lazaros Kircos was held under the auspices of His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit and organized by Regional Commanders Louis Kircos and Mark Stavropoulos. The symposium opened with luncheon, followed by a live video conference call to the Ecumenical His All-Holiness greets symposium Patriarchate where participants had the extraor- participants during a live video confer- dinary opportunity to receive the greetings and ence call from the Phanar. blessings of His All-Holiness. Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, National Commander spoke about "The Religious Freedom Crisis in Turkey." Dr. George Demacopoulos, Archon Historian, closed the event speaking about "The Return of the Relics of St. Gregory the Theologian and St. to Constantinople in 2004."  ; JOHN MINDALA JOHN ; manginas

Metropolitan Nicholas with Archons of the CREDIT: nicholas CREDIT: Metropolis of Detroit. hoto P 14 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM NEWS DEPARTED ARCHONS

John C. Anggelis Archon Dikaiophylax Lexington, KY Departed on March 14, 2013

Andrew A. Athens Archon Maestor Chicago, IL Departed on January 9, 2013

Basil C. Foussianes Archon Megas Ekdikos Naples, FL Departed on December 12, 2012

Peter T. Kikis Archon Maestor New York, NY Departed on February 28, 2013

AHI honors the Order of Saint Andrew Emmanuel M. Kontokosta Archon Depoutatos with Religious Freedom Award New York, NY Departed on March 31, 2013 Washington, D.C. – The only organization in the United American Hellenic Institute for American Hellenic Institute States whose exclusive mis- its herculean efforts to promote Dr. Michael G. Melas (AHI) bestowed their Religious sion is to defend the Mother religious freedom of the Mother Archon Aktouarios Freedom Award upon the Order Church of Constantinople, the Church under the leadership Albany, NY of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Ecumenical Patriarchate and of its founder, Archon Eugene Departed on January 22, 2013 during its 38th Anniversary His All-Holiness Ecumenical Rossides, and its president, Hellenic Heritage Achievement Patriarch Bartholomew. We Archon Nick Larigakis, and Hon. Nicholas J. Melas and Public Service Awards consistently and systemati- together with Archon Dr. Spiros Archon Ekdikos Dinner, March 9, 2013, at the cally bring the issue of religious Spireas. AHI has been impact- Chicago, IL Capital Hilton, Washington, D.C. freedom of the Mother Church ful and consequential…AHI Departed on March 15, 2013 and other religious minorities in has been front and center in Archons Nick Larigakis, AHI Turkey to the leading the charge for religious James M. Mezilson President, and Dr. Spiro Spireas, and its rotating presidency freedom by working to pass the Archon Notarios AHI Foundation President, pic- nations, to the largest human historic H.Res.50, a resolution Chicago, IL tured above, honored a dis- rights meetings in Europe in on behalf of the Ecumenical Departed on January 18, 2013 tinguished set of awardees Warsaw, Poland, the OSCE Patriarchate [eventually passed that evening, based upon their human dimension meetings, to as law in Section 2804 of the Themis C. Pailas important career or institutional the European Court of Human FY1998 Omnibus Emergency Archon Depoutatos achievements and contributions Rights in Strasbourg, France, Supplemental Appropriations Lansdale, PA to the Greek American com- and to the White House… We Act]. AHI has been relentless in munity or community at-large. Departed on January 28, 2013 travel to Ankara, and together its pursuit for law and justice for Accepting on behalf of the Order with our ambassador of the Cyprus and seeking relief for the was its National Commander James A. Poll United States, meet with the Hellenic Republic.” Archon Hieromnimon Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, who government leaders with the Manhasset, NY stated: He concluded by noting that simple message: reopen Halki, although as individuals we Departed on April 17, 2013 “I would like to begin by con- return our properties, stop in- may have different agendas gratulating and express- terfering in the election of the but “we are all united by one Christos G. Tsaganis ing our profound gratitude to Ecumenical Patriarch, respect Mother Church, the Ecumenical Archon Depoutatos Mrs. Angelopoulos and the the title of “Ecumenical,” and Patriarchate, and one spiri- Brockton, MA Angelopoulos Family for their recognize the world center of tual father, His All-Holiness, the Departed on February 4, 2013 unparalleled philanthropy to Orthodoxy for what it is—the Ecumenical Patriarch.” center of spiritual salvation the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Sava Tshontikidis which enabled the Phanar, to as a corporate entity with le- The American Hellenic Institute Archon Hypomnematografos rebuild its compound after it was gal personality. In the eyes of is a non-profit Greek American Satellite Beach, FL the Turkish government the destroyed by fire in the 1940’s. public policy center that works Departed on February 3, 2013 We are deeply grateful Mrs. Ecumenical Patriarchate does to strengthen relations between Angelopoulos, for your family’s not exist and that must end.” the United States and Greece : BILL PETROS extraordinary beneficence in and Cyprus, and within the Dr. Limberakis added, “I am sustaining the Mother Church.” Greek American community.  compelled to pay tribute to the hoto credit

The Order of St. Andrew is the P archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 15

IN MEMORIAM

Andrew A. Athens, Archon Maestor Peter T. Kikis, Archon Maestor New York – Peter T. Kikis, Archon Maestor, president of FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy & Hellenism and Member of the Archdiocesan Council of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese fell asleep in the Lord Feb. 28, 2013. He was 90 years old. Peter Kikis, the son of Greek im- migrants from Arcadia was born in New Rochelle, NY in 1922. He lost his father at an early age Chicago – Andrew A. Athens, Archon Maestor of the Ecumenical and thereafter started working to Patriarchate and president of the Archdiocesan Council of the Greek help support his mother and sis- Orthodox Archdiocese for over two decades (1974-1995) fell asleep ters. He received his Bachelor’s in the Lord, March 14, 2013. He was 91 years old. Athens was the Degree summa cum laude from Archon Peter T. Kikis first world president of the Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE), founder Princeton University, where he of the United Hellenic-American Congress (UHAC) and Hellenicare, majored in Mathematics study- co-founder of Leadership 100, International Orthodox Christian ing with Albert Einstein. He served as a captain in the US Army Charities (IOCC), Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce, in Europe during World War II and earned four Battle Stars for his National Coordinated Effort of Hellenes (CEH) and many other service in the War. philanthropic and public benefit organizations and foundations. Mr. Kikis was a well known business leader and philanthropist, The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle expresses our heartfelt con- and trusted advisor to Archbishop Demetrios. He had served not dolences to the beloved family of Archon Athens who leaves a global only on the Archdiocesan Council, but had been a member of the legacy of good works and unparalleled philanthropy. His remark- Executive Committee. able diakonia to the Church includes his leadership in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Council, the establishment of Leadership Peter Kikis was married to the late Helen Kikis in 1955. He is 100 and International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), as well as survived by their son, Thomas P. Kikis, daughter-in-law Stephanie his consistent and relentless pursuit of a just resolution in Cyprus and and three grandchildren: Elena, Peter, and Terrel Kikis. He is also the creation of Hellenicare offering medical care and humanitarian survived by his sister Urania Perakos and the many people whose assistance to the needy in the countries of the former Soviet Union. lives he has positively impacted.  In 1991, he received the Athenagoras Human Rights Award in rec- ognition of his extraordinary global humanitarian achievements. 

George L. Strike leaves magnanimous bequest to The Order

Cincinnati - George L. Strike, American Laundry Machinery, and Peoples Bank & Trust (Denver, Archon Depoutatos, passed away Colorado). He was a longtime limited partner in the Cincinnati Reds. October 20, 2012, in Cincinnati, Archon Strike believed in service to the community and served Ohio. He is survived by his wife, as Chairman of UC Health of Greater Cincinnati, the University of Susan, three sons, six grandchil- Cincinnati Board of Trustees, the University of Cincinnati Hospital dren, and one great-grandson. Board, and the Cincinnati Council on World Affairs. He was inducted into the Order Among the many awards he received are the following: an Honorary of St. Andrew with the Offikion Doctorate from the University of Cincinnati, the Distinguished of Archon Depoutatos by His Alumnus Award from the University of Utah, and the Chairman’s Eminence the late Archbishop Award from the University of Cincinnati Foundation for distinguished Iakovos in 1972 at the Cathedral leadership. of the Holy in New York City. anagos P Archon Strike maintained membership in Holy Trinity Church in Archon Strike was born in 1930 Salt Lake City and Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas Church in Cincinnati. in Salt Lake City and graduated

D imitrios He leaves a legacy of faith, community involvement and service, from the University of Utah. He devotion to family, productive living, respect for all people, and was a man of limitless energy rchon appreciation of the joys of life. : A : Archon George L. Strike and dedication to his work and to philanthropic endeavors. He The Order of St. Andrew is honored to be the recipient of a bequest credit served as Chairman of the Board of Advance Textile Systems, in the amount of $100,000 from the estate of Archon Strike. 

hoto Martin Franchises, the Hess & Eisenhardt Manufacturing Company, P 16 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013

ARCHON LENTEN RETREAT Father Maximos of Mount Athos leads 2013 Archon Lenten Retreat Westfield - With the blessings cultivate. Father Maximos stated of His Eminence Archbishop that the heart is the center of Demetrios of America, the Order our being, the seed is to be of Saint Andrew was pleased to cultivated to bear fruit and the have Father Maximos–a monk core of human life is the heart from Mount Athos, Greece–as which begins at birth. its featured speaker for the 10th Father Maximos concluded Annual Archon Lenten Retreat, the day offering participants a April 19-20, 2013. The retreat glimpse into the daily responsi- was held at the Metropolis bilities of monastic life and how of New Jersey Headquarters to coexist in a community of in Westfield, at the gracious people of all backgrounds and invitation of His Eminence Archons Alex Pritsos, Peter Skeadas, Spirituality Chairman, past professions, during his af- Metropolitan Evangelos of New National Commander Anthony J. Limberakis, M.D., Father ternoon topic, “From Harvard to Jersey, and was attended by Maximos, John Halecky, Jr., James C. Fountas and Regional Mount Athos.” He spoke about some sixty Archons, spouses Commander Judge B. Theodore Bozonelis. the many forms of monastic life: and participants. The retreat al- large community monasteries lowed everyone to grow in their cupied with modern technology outward to inward. such as cell phone devices, vs. skeets–small homes on spirituality, join together in fel- The following day, participants tablets, personal computers–all hillsides with one central church lowship and prayer, and allowed celebrated the in of which permit your mind to from which life is lived. He spoke Archons to reenergize their the Metropolis Chapel. Father wander to something not rel- about how Mount Athos is not commitment in the pursuit of Maximos continued with the evant at the moment. He elabo- a place where one is alone. It religious freedom for the Mother topic, ‘The Buried Seed,’ stat- rated on how these distracted is communal living with all the Church of Constantinople. ing, “Don’t be conformed to thoughts steal our possibility responsibilities that go with it. The two-day retreat with Father the form of the world; but be to know God. We consume the Archon Peter Skeadas, Maximos commenced on the transformed by the renewal of ads that we are fed through Committee Chairman on topic, “The Distracted Life,” your mind.” He mentioned that the media and focus our lives Spirituality, was the retreat’s following the Hymn we receive the gift of the Holy on that which is of the moment organizer while Archons John service at Holy Trinity Greek Spirit that God gives through and will not enrich the core of Halecky, Jr. and James C. Orthodox Church, Friday eve- Holy Baptism. It is given in the our being. We must focus not Fountas assisted in coordinating ning. The presentation focused form of a tiny spark or in the from surface, but instead to the event with the Metropolis on how our daily lives are preoc- form of a seed–waiting for us to depth; from mind to heart; from Headquarters. In expressing 17

thanks to Father Maximos, the Ecumenical Patriarchate National Commander Anthony and offered his blessings and The Patriarchal Throne J. Limberakis, M.D. said, “The greetings. retreat participants are truly Father Maximos is a native A poem by Father Nicholas Samaras blessed to have had the oppor- New Yorker, and a graduate tunity to participate in a retreat of Hellenic College and Holy Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church led by such a learned, spiritual Cross Greek Orthodox School West Nyack, New York and pious cleric. He challenged of Theology. He holds a Ph.D. the retreatants to abandon the in patristics, has twice been a distracted life of the superficial fellow at Dumbarton Oaks, and and mundane and focus on for many years was a professor nurturing the seed of the Holy he dark amber grain of alder wood at Harvard Divinity School and Spirit that Orthodox Christians subsequently at Holy Cross. receive at baptism by doing long burnished by the hands of good works. The author of many scholarly Patriarchs leaning in the dusk of books, articles, and transla- “The Order looks forward to T tions, his edition and translation publishing the retreat presen- prayer. A succession of patient palms of St. Maximos the Confessor’s tation by Father Maximos so Ambigua will be published later where I am furnished in a holy nave. that all may benefit from this this year by Harvard University outstanding theologian.” Press. He is currently a visiting Together, it is the witness we bear. Due to responsibilities on professor at Hellenic College the Synod of the Ecumenical and Holy Cross and appeared And I have stood to view centuries of Patriarchate, Metropolitan on CBS’s 60 Minutes Mount Evangelos was unable to attend Athos documenta- such Elders to inhabit the cradle of me: this year’s retreat. However, he ry, which aired joined participants via a Skype December not I but Christ who lives in me. So, from session that afternoon from 2011.  him, I see it is his definition that gives me mine. With the gold icon of the Being in Don’t be conformed my center, we are all what the space is filled to by. to the form of the To be a Holy Father is to be first a world; but be father with children. And I see transformed him go to them everywhere. In a bright morning, others will by the see him humble and fatherly in Doxology. Know the chil- renewal of dren by the father.

your mind.” The root of the word Patriarch means “He Who Provides.” Be thus led. Stand with him as I stand for what is spoken : JOHN MINDALA and heard. Oh, bless the full silver and white hairs of his hoto credit P head. 18 THE ARCHON | Spring 2013

PHOTO BRIEFS

German Chancellor Merkel Georgian President Saakashvili Istanbul – On February 25, following a personal invitation from the Tblisi – On January 12, His All-Holiness met with the President Prime Minister of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, His All-Holiness of Georgia, the Hon. Mikhail Saakashvili, at Tbilisi Palace. His All- met with the Chancellor of Germany, the Hon. Angela Merkel, at Holiness was formally invited to Georgia by Patriarch Ilia II in order the residence of the Prime Minister in Ankara. to participate in the celebrations of the latter’s 80th birthday and 35th anniversary since his enthronement.

Serbian President Nikolic Metropolitan Anthony’s Enthronement Istanbul – On Tuesday, February 5, the Serbian President, His Silver Spring – On January 26, His Eminence Metropolitan Antony Excellency Tomislav Nikolic, visited the Phanar and was received was enthroned as the 4th Metropolitan of the Ukrainian Orthodox by His All-Holiness. Church of the USA during a service held at Saint Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, MD. Through the hands of the Exarch, National Commander Limberakis presented a panagia set to His Eminence on behalf of the Order. : NICHOLAS MANGINAS; JOHN MINDALA JOHN MANGINAS; NICHOLAS : Berlin preparations discussed at National Council Meeting credit New York – National Council members discussed preparations for the upcoming International Religious Freedom Conference slated to hoto

be held in Berlin, Germany in December. The meeting was held in the conference room at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. P archons.org/newsletter | The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate 19

$15K raised for ‘Project Hope for Greece’ NJ Ukrainian seminarians visit Phanar Miami – Archons Dr. Andreas G. Tzakis, and his wife, Dr. Patricia Istanbul – On April 11, His All-Holiness received His Grace Bishop Carroll-Tzakis, and John and Evangeline Scurtis, hosted a special Daniel of Pamphilon and the 2013 graduating class of Saint Sophia fundraising dinner for ‘Project Hope for Greece,’ April 18. More Ukrainian Orthodox Seminary in South Bound Brook, NJ, for their than 70 people came together and raised over $15,000 for a wide senior trip to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. range of charities and important institutions in Greece.

Executive Committee meets with Metropolitan Sotirios, Canadian Archons Toronto – Members of the Executive Committee of the Order of Saint Andrew, led by National Commander Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, visited the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto, March 1–3, 2013. They met with His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios, His Grace Bishop Christoforos and a number of Archons from Canada to discuss various issues and initiatives, including the second International Archon Religious Freedom Conference scheduled for December. On Sunday, March 3, the Archons attended the Divine Liturgy at the Church of St. George in Toronto. 

The Archons visited various churches in The Archons visited St. John the The Archons visted a local Greek school : ANTHONY J. LIMBERAKIS, M.D.; NICHOLAS MANGINAS NICHOLAS M.D.; LIMBERAKIS, J. ANTHONY : the local area. Compassionate Mission, of the Carpatho- at SS. Panteleimon, Anna and Paraskeve Russian Church, which serves 30,000 Greek Orthodox Church in Markham. credit meals a year to the homeless and needy. hoto P 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075-0106

The Order of Saint Andrew’s fundamental mission is to promote the religious freedom, wellbeing and advancement of the Ecumenical Patriarchate–the spiritual center of the world’s 300 million Orthodox Christians. The Ecumenical Patriarchate is headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey.

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