Abp. Elpidophoros Highlights Spiritual Fatherhood in Father’s Day Message

NEW YORK — Abp. Elpidophoros used his 2026 Father’s Day encyclical to highlight the spiritual significance of fatherhood and to encourage the faithful to honor not only their earthly fathers, but also the clergy who serve as spiritual fathers within the Church.

Drawing on the words of St. Paul to the Corinthians, the Archbishop emphasized that spiritual fatherhood is a rare and precious calling. While many may teach the faith, he noted that true spiritual fathers guide believers through the Gospel and nurture them in their life in Christ. He pointed to St. Paul’s description of himself as a father to the Corinthian Christians as an example of this sacred relationship.

The encyclical also reflected on Christ’s teaching that God alone is the ultimate Father. Abp. Elpidophoros explained that Orthodox Christians do not diminish this truth when they call their parent “father,” their sponsor “godfather,” or their priest “Father.” Rather, such titles recognize the ways in which these individuals reflect the love, care, and guidance of the Heavenly Father.

In addition to honoring fathers, the Archbishop called attention to the needs of retired clergy. He urged the faithful to support the Clergy Pension Fund, saying that assistance given to those who have devoted their lives to serving the Church would yield spiritual blessings in return.

The message concluded with Father’s Day greetings and blessings for the faithful throughout the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Previously, the UOJ reported that an unexpected dream inspired Abp. Elpidophoros’s lifelong devotion to St. Iakovos of Evia.