Metr. Saba Names New Leader for Antiochian Missions Effort

Fr. James Purdie. Photo: Kelly Dannemiller Purdie/Facebook

ENGLEWOOD, NJ — The Very Rev. Fr. James Purdie has been appointed Chairman of the Department of Missions and Evangelism by His Eminence Metr. Saba, succeeding the Very Rev. Fr. John Finley following his retirement. The appointment takes effect January 15, 2026.

Fr. James is a graduate of Muskingum University and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and is currently a PhD candidate in missiology. He has served for several years as diocesan missions coordinator for the Eastern Region and has been pastor of St. Basil the Great Antiochian Orthodox Church in Hampton, Virginia, since 2012. He and his wife, Khourieh Kelly, are parents of three children.

With more than 275 parishes and missions now active, the Department is expanding its work into two branches: one supporting new missions and parishes, and another focused on the spiritual formation of newly received Orthodox faithful. Fr. James’s background in missions and evangelism positions him to guide this growing ministry.

“I am humbled by His Eminence’s trust in me,” Fr. James said, expressing gratitude for Fr. Finley’s long and faithful service.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Saba urged the creation of retreat centers for the faithful. 

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