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Orthodox Observer - September 1997

Archbishop Meets with Atlanta Diocese Clergy

HIS EMINENCE and clergy of the Atlanta Diocese, including His Grace Bishop Alexios, Archiepi- scopal Vicar, and Diocese Chan- cellor Fr. Petros Kopsahilis

ATLANTA — Archbishop Spyridon convened the first synaxis of the Atlanta Diocese clergy at the Diocesan Cathedral of the Annunciation on Aug. 13.

The meeting included Bishop Alexios of Troas, Diocese staff clergy and members of the diocesan and cathedral executive councils.

A special Doxology of Thanksgiving took place at the cathedral and was chanted by more than 65 clergy.

After the doxology, the clergy met with His Eminence for more than two hours during which time the Archbishop outlined his vision for the Church's future in America and responded to questions.

"He made everyone feel comfortable just like a father who is asking his children to be honest and to express their feelings and concerns about their life," said His Grace Bishop Alexios, archiepiscopal vicar of the Atlanta Diocese.

"He spoke very gently, brotherly and fatherly, in explaining to us the situations of the schools. He shared his wishes and his dreams for the spirituality and the ethos that he wants to see at both of the holy institutions," he added.

Presentations on the patriarchal visit to America, Total Commitment, clergy benefits and youth ministry were made by the Very Rev. Gabriel Karambis, director of the Office of Stewardship Ministries, and by Fr. Anastasios Bourantas, director of the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

A luncheon followed attended by His Eminence, clergy, Diocese Council President Dr. John Skandalakis and council members, National Philoptochos President Mimi Skandalakis and Philoptochos Board members, Cathedral Council President Victor Economy, Diocese Archons Commander Steve Alexander and many others.

Theo Nikolakis, director of Internet Ministries, gave a presentation on the use of the Internet.

After the luncheon, Archbishop Spyridon and other clergy and laypersons toured the Diocese headquarters and Chapel of Archangel Michael.

"We felt that we, the body of the Church, were connected with the head of our Church, not only as our administrator, but as our Spiritual father. This spiritual connection brought peace and harmony among us and all the institutions," said Bishop Alexios.

[ Orthodox Observer, Vol. 62 - No. 1133, September 1997, p. 2 ]