Greek Orthodox Priest Addresses U.S. Summit on Human Trafficking

Fr. Peter Spiro. Photo: Stephen Voss

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Fr. Peter Spiro, Director of the FREEDOM Ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, served as a featured panelist at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s national summit on human trafficking, where he offered a faith-informed perspective on combating modern-day slavery.

As first reported by the Orthodox Observer, the summit convened over 150 participants, including top officials from the Department of Homeland Security, IRS, and Homeland Security Investigations, alongside former ambassadors, legislators, business leaders, and nonprofit experts.

Drawing on his background in law enforcement and nonprofit leadership, Fr. Peter emphasized the importance of addressing consumer demand that fuels exploitation in both labor and sex trafficking industries. He also highlighted the FREEDOM Ministry’s commitment to survivor-centered care, advocating for trauma-informed services, housing, and long-term employment as essential components of healing and reintegration.

Informed by the voices of survivors, Fr. Peter pointed to ongoing partnerships with businesses that offer survivors meaningful career paths as a form of economic empowerment.

While in Washington, Fr. Spiro also met with the Outreach and Engagement Unit Chief at the Department of Homeland Security to explore future collaboration. Discussions included the development of customized training modules for clergy, lay leaders, and parishes across the Archdiocese to strengthen community-based responses to trafficking.

The FREEDOM Ministry leads the Greek Orthodox Church’s national efforts to combat human trafficking through education, survivor advocacy, and spiritual outreach - including the founding of the St. Barbara Shrine for Human Freedom in Tennessee, a sacred space for prayer and support for those impacted by trafficking.

More information on Fr. Peter's background can be found here.

Previously, UOJ reported that GOARCH's Holy Cross Diaconate Program had a record 51 candidates participation during the summer session, with 14 completing the program. 

Read also