Greek Orthodox Priest Suspended After Misconduct Investigation

Photo: thecathedralnyc.org

NEW YORK — The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) has suspended a senior priest following an internal investigation that concluded he engaged in inappropriate electronic communications inconsistent with clerical expectations, according to an official announcement issued after review by its Spiritual Court.

The case involved the V. Rev. Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert and was conducted under the Archdiocese’s Clergy Misconduct Policy. Officials stated that the process included testimony from Fr. Chrysostomos, a full review of evidence, and findings presented to the Spiritual Court, which ultimately determined that misconduct had occurred. The Court’s conclusion centered on communications deemed unsuitable for a priest serving in a pastoral role.

Following the determination, members of the Spiritual Court met with His Eminence Abp. Elpidophoros, who ordered Fr. Chrysostomos to be relieved of his duties at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and formally suspended from priestly ministry. The Archdiocese emphasized that the decision reflects both accountability and a structured ecclesiastical response to misconduct allegations.

At the same time, church leadership outlined a rehabilitative path for the suspended cleric. Abp. Elpidophoros directed Fr. Chrysostomos to undergo therapeutic treatment, spiritual counseling, and pastoral rehabilitation, noting that any potential return to ministry would depend on his successful completion of the program and a future determination of fitness for service.

Church officials said the Archdiocese remains committed to maintaining integrity and pastoral care within its ministries and expressed gratitude to those involved in the investigative process. The faithful were also asked to keep all parties involved in their prayers.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a priest of the Archdiocesan Cathedral was removed from parish duties pending an investigation.

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