Abp. Elpidophoros Calls for Spiritual Court to Review Allegations Against Fr. Gilbert
An investigation into allegations against Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert has advanced to a formal Spiritual Court proceeding.
NEW YORK — A Spiritual Court of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is set to convene June 8 to consider allegations involving Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert, following the completion of a formal investigation conducted under the Archdiocese’s Clergy Misconduct Policy.
The decision was announced after Abp. Elpidophoros of America reviewed the investigative findings upon returning from a visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and Mt. Athos. The Archdiocese stated that the matter will now proceed through established ecclesiastical channels in accordance with its Holy Canons and regulations.
The case stems from allegations of inappropriate communications between Fr. Gilbert and an adult. Earlier this year, the Archdiocese launched an investigation and placed the priest on leave from parish duties while the inquiry was underway. Church officials emphasized at the time that no conclusions had been reached and that Fr. Gilbert was cooperating fully with investigators. The Archdiocese also assured parishioners that liturgical, sacramental, and pastoral care would continue uninterrupted during the process.
The Spiritual Court will be presided over by Bp. Nektarios of Diokleia, National Chancellor of the Archdiocese. Serving alongside him will be Rev. Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne Elias Villis, Very Rev. Archimandrite Chrysostom Panos, Rev. Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne Peter Orfanakos, Rev. Protopresbyter Nicholas Dassouras, and Rev. Protopresbyter Nikoforos Fakinos. The Archdiocese said it will have no further comment while the proceedings are pending.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Elpidophoros returned to the U.S. in good health after a pilgrimage.
