Archbishop Elpidophoros Attends Romanian Patriarchate Centennial Symposium
Photo: Orthodox Observer
NEW YORK — On Monday, June 2, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America participated in a symposium titled “A Century of Patriarchate, a Legacy of Faith: The Romanian Orthodox Church through History.” The event was hosted by the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas in collaboration with the Consulate General of Romania and the Romanian Cultural Institute in New York.
The program included remarks from His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae, Consul General Mihaela-Simona Florea, and Romanian Cultural Institute Director Dorian Branea. The Very Reverend Daniel Ene presented an overview of the Romanian Patriarchate’s 100-year history.
Archbishop Elpidophoros offered greetings on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, praising the Romanian Church’s enduring witness. In a quote published by the Orthodox Observer, he said:
“The establishment of the Patriarchate of Romania stands as a powerful testament to a century of devotion to Christ, fidelity to Holy Tradition, martyrdom, and steadfast service to the Romanian Orthodox faithful throughout the world. His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel is a most worthy successor to his distinguished predecessors, and he has consistently led the Romanian Church in positive and life-affirming pathways.”
Reflecting on the Romanian Church’s historical journey, he added:
“Today, as we reflect on this historical journey — from the granting of autocephaly by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1885 to the present day — we give thanks to God for the vision and labor of your blessed ancestors. They planted the seeds of the Church in new lands, nurturing them through prayer, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to Orthodoxy. In the United States, the faithful of the Romanian Orthodox Church have established vibrant cultural centers within their parishes—beacons of tradition and spiritual sustenance for generations to come.”
The symposium concluded with an exhibition of historic photographs documenting the Romanian Orthodox Church’s path to Patriarchal status.
Previously, UOJ reported on Archbishop Elpidophoros leading seminarians and faithful to the site of the First Ecumenical Council in a historic and spiritually rich pilgrimage.
Read also
Petition Warns Canada’s Hate Speech Law Could Criminalize Scripture
Thousands of Canadians have signed a petition urging the Liberal government to drop proposed hate-speech changes that critics warn could criminalize quoting the Bible and other religious texts.
JD Vance: Criticizing Israel Is Not Antisemitism
Vice President JD Vance said opposing Israeli policies is not the same as antisemitism, sparking debate over where criticism of Israel ends and hatred of Jews begins.
First Orthodox Prayer Book Published in Indonesian Language
The first Orthodox prayer book in Indonesian has been published and presented in Bekasi, providing local faithful and new converts with a vital resource for prayer and liturgical life.
OCA Joins Legal Challenge to Illinois Abortion Referral Law
Amicus brief argues mandate violates religious freedom and compels pro-life providers to contradict their faith.
EXCLUSIVE: Leaked Ukrainian Memo Says Religious Freedom is ‘Achilles Heel’
In an emergency strategy meeting held in response to the Society of St. John's Day of Action, D.C.-based Ukrainian lobbyists acknowledged the weight of the religious freedom issue as it pertains to the Ukrainian government’s public perception.
Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has received a record $2.9 million bequest from the late Andy Efthim, a devoted layman whose faith-filled generosity will support the Church’s mission for generations.