Abp. Elpidophoros Responds to Tragic Minnesota Shooting

Photo: chicago.goarch.org

NEW YORK — Abp. Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America issued a statement on January 26, 2026, responding to a recent federal immigration enforcement shooting in Minneapolis. The Archbishop condemned the killing of an American citizen by federal agents as a “grave moral event,” calling for truth, restraint, and accountability in the use of lethal force.

In his statement, Abp. Elpidophoros emphasized that “lethal force must never become routine, casual, or preemptive,” while also acknowledging the difficult responsibilities shouldered by law enforcement. He urged against dehumanizing rhetoric targeting any group, noting that reducing people to caricatures corrodes civic bonds.

He affirmed the Orthodox commitment to the sanctity of human life, reminding the faithful that every person is created in the image and likeness of God, and urged all involved— both protesters and public safety officials — to respect moral limits that protect human dignity.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Elpidophoros called the faithful to compassion and charity during Nativity. 

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