Abp. Elpidophoros Granted American Citizenship

Abp. Elpidophoros has been granted citizenship in the U.S. Photo: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos

NOV. 10, 2025 — His Eminence Abp. Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America announced that he had been granted American citizenship on Monday.

In a post on Facebook, Abp. Elpidophoros thanked the U.S. for welcoming him and now, making him a citizen:

With gratitude and humility, I thank this great nation for welcoming me six years ago—and today, for granting me the honor of becoming an American citizen. This solemn moment fills my heart with joy and renewed purpose. I pledge to redouble my efforts in serving the faithful of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the wider society of this blessed land, especially in these turbulent times. As Scripture reminds us, ‘Every good and every perfect gift is from above’ (James 1:17)—and today, I receive this gift with thanksgiving and love.

His Eminence is also currently serving as chairman for the National Council of Churches and is on the Advisory Board of Religious Leaders for President Donald Trump’s recently established Religious Liberty Commission.

Previously, UOJ reported that the Archbishop shared his excitement about Orthodox-Miaphysite dialogue.

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