Spyridon invites Christodoulos to US

Athens News Agency - February 15, 1999

Athens 15/02/1999 (ANA)

Archbishop of America Spyridon yesterday invited Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos to visit the United States. During a dinner hosted by Christodoulos in honour of Spyridon, the Archbishop of America said: "come witness our struggles, our bitterness, come and see that all is gained by great effort and that no one is giving us anything if we do not win it ourselves."

Earlier, during the morning service at the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral, Spyridon, on an official visit to Greece, issued a call for unity towards "ecumenical Hellenism."

Spyridon letter to Clinton: Archbishop of America Spyridon addressed a letter of congratulations on Friday to US President Bill Clinton, following the latter's acquittal by the US Senate on two impeachment charges.

"...This evening I was informed of the news that the Senate trial is over and that your Presidency may continue on its progressive and constructive course. May I offer to you and your family my personal best wishes and blessings, so that you and your loved ones may resume your family life with the dignity and privacy you deserve," Spyridon, currently on an official visit to Greece, states in his letter.

"Although this has most certainly been a difficult and grueling ordeal, I believe that be seeking forgiveness and by offering to others, you shall bring to your family and the nation the healing we all deserve. I have no doubt that your outstretched hand of reconciliation will be blessed by God," the Archbishop writes.

US ambassador hosts reception for Spyridon: US ambassador in Athens Nicholas Burns hosted a reception in honour to Archbishop of America Spyridon at his official residence last night.

Mr. Burns expressed his support and respect for the Archbishop's role in the Greek-American community and the Orthodox Church's unity, praising the significance of Spyridon's mission.

He added that he was planning to work together with Spyridon to help further improve relations between the two countries and their people.

On his part, the Archbishop said he was proud at Athens being chosen to host the 2004 Olympics, while he expressed a conviction that Greek-US relations will be further strengthened in the future.

A number of government and opposition officials were also present.

[ Athens News Agency - www.ana.gr - February 15, 1999 ]