New Abbot Stephanos Meets With Abp. Elpidophoros

Hieromonk Stephanos is standing to Abp. Elpidophoros' right. Photo: orthodoxobserver.org

NEW YORK — The newly elected abbot of the Holy Monastery of St. Nektarios in Roscoe, New York, paid an official visit to the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) on June 11, meeting with Abp. Elpidophoros ahead of his formal installation later this year.

The Rev. Hieromonk Stephanos, accompanied by Dcn. Chrysostomos and Brother Epiphanios, visited the archdiocesan headquarters to offer his respects to the Archbishop and receive his blessing as he prepares to assume leadership of the monastery. The election followed the repose of the monastery’s longtime spiritual leader, Elder Joseph.

During the meeting, Abp. Elpidophoros congratulated the newly elected abbot and expressed confidence in his ability to continue the monastery’s spiritual mission. He offered pastoral guidance on the virtues of humility, obedience, discernment, joy, and unconditional love, emphasizing their importance in monastic leadership. The Archbishop also voiced his hope that Fr. Stephanos would help nurture the spiritual growth of the monastic brotherhood while remaining faithful to Orthodox tradition.

Fr. Stephanos thanked the Archbishop for his support, prayers, and guidance, reaffirming his commitment to serving the Church and preserving the monastery’s spiritual heritage. Members of the brotherhood also extended greetings to Patr. Bartholomew on his feast day and expressed their devotion to the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The visit concluded with prayers and a blessing for the new abbot. His installation and enthronement are scheduled for Sept. 3 at the Holy Monastery of St. Nektarios in Roscoe.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Saba presided at a 40-day memorial for Elder Joseph.

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