Abp. Elpidophoros Meets with Abp. Ieronymos in Greece
Greek diaspora and Church unity highlight the 30-minute discussion.
ATHENS — Abp. Elpidophoros of America met with Abp. Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece this week, with the two hierarchs focusing on the role of the Greek diaspora and the continued importance of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America in strengthening ties with the Motherland.
As reported by UOJ-Greece — with reference to Romfea — during the 30-minute meeting, Abp. Ieronymos emphasized the long-standing relationship and cooperation between the two leaders, noting that Abp. Elpidophoros “rightfully holds a significant position” through which he assists Hellenism “in many ways, both multifaceted and exemplary.” He described the Archbishop of America as the “natural leader of the Omogenia,” expressing gratitude for his service to both the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Greek community in the United States.
Abp. Ieronymos also congratulated Elpidophoros on his forthcoming recognition as an Honorary Doctor of the University of Patras, to be awarded on December 5.
Abp. Elpidophoros, accompanied by Archimandrite Vasileios Drossos, said that visiting Abp. Ieronymos is “not simply the fulfillment of an ecclesiastical duty, but a great joy,” praising his warm and fatherly hospitality. He highlighted the respect held for Ieronymos as Primate of the Church of Greece and affirmed the Archdiocese’s strong ties with the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Elpidophoros also referenced the recent events in Nicaea and Constantinople — including the recitation of the Creed without the Filioque and the Joint Declaration signed by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Leo XIV — as significant moments for global Christianity.
Before departing, the Archbishop of America thanked Ieronymos for the warm welcome and expressed hope that he would one day have the opportunity to host him in New York.
Previously, UOJ reported that Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle had met with Abp. Ieronymos.
