Greek Orthodox Priest Suspended After Misconduct Investigation

NEW YORK — The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) has suspended a senior priest following an internal investigation that concluded he engaged in inappropriate electronic communications inconsistent with clerical expectations, according to an official announcement issued after review by its Spiritual Court.

The case involved the V. Rev. Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert and was conducted under the Archdiocese’s Clergy Misconduct Policy. Officials stated that the process included testimony from Fr. Chrysostomos, a full review of evidence, and findings presented to the Spiritual Court, which ultimately determined that misconduct had occurred. The Court’s conclusion centered on communications deemed unsuitable for a priest serving in a pastoral role.

Following the determination, members of the Spiritual Court met with His Eminence Abp. Elpidophoros, who ordered Fr. Chrysostomos to be relieved of his duties at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and formally suspended from priestly ministry. The Archdiocese emphasized that the decision reflects both accountability and a structured ecclesiastical response to misconduct allegations.

At the same time, church leadership outlined a rehabilitative path for the suspended cleric. Abp. Elpidophoros directed Fr. Chrysostomos to undergo therapeutic treatment, spiritual counseling, and pastoral rehabilitation, noting that any potential return to ministry would depend on his successful completion of the program and a future determination of fitness for service.

Church officials said the Archdiocese remains committed to maintaining integrity and pastoral care within its ministries and expressed gratitude to those involved in the investigative process. The faithful were also asked to keep all parties involved in their prayers.

In a letter addressed to the Holy Trinity community on Monday, Fr. Chrysostomos expressed remorse for his actions and stated that he would accept whatever disciplinary action was given by the spiritual court.

June 8, 2026

Dear Cathedral Family,

I acknowledge my failures and shortcomings and fully accept responsibility for the circumstances that have brought me before the Spiritual Court. I am deeply sorry for the pain, disappointment, confusion, and scandal that I have caused to the faithful of the Church.

I sincerely ask forgiveness from all those whom I have hurt and troubled. I place myself in the hands of the Church and respectfully accept whatever guidance, correction, or decision is deemed appropriate by the Spiritual Court.

I am committed to learning from my mistakes, addressing my shortcomings, and growing spiritually through this difficult experience.

I am grateful for the prayers, patience, and care that have been shown to me, and I humbly ask for your continued prayers as I strive to move forward with faith and repentance.

Respectfully submitted,

Archimandrite Chrysostomos Gilbert

Previously, the UOJ reported that Fr. Chrysostomos was removed from parish duties pending an investigation.