Abp. Elpidophoros Names New Dean for Archdiocesan Cathedral

NEW YORK — Abp. Elpidophoros of America has appointed Fr. Gregory Gilbert as the new dean of the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York City, with the appointment taking effect Sept. 1, 2026. Fr. Gregory currently serves as chancellor of the Metropolis of New Jersey and will bring extensive pastoral, academic, and liturgical experience to the cathedral's ministries.

At the same time, Abp. Elpidophoros announced that Fr. Elias Villis will serve as acting chancellor of the Metropolis of New Jersey beginning Aug. 16, 2026. Fr. Elias will continue his existing role as chancellor of the Archdiocesan District while providing administrative and pastoral support to the metropolis during the transition, which also follows the election of Metr. Apostolos of New Jersey as the new Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada.

Fr. Gregory's ministry has been shaped by a deep engagement with Orthodox theology and history. Originally raised in a Southern Baptist family in Tennessee, he discovered Orthodox Christianity while studying classics at Davidson College, where his interest in the writings of the early Church Fathers led him toward the ancient Faith. He later studied at St. Vladimir's Seminary, earned a doctorate in Greek and Latin studies from The Catholic University of America, and was ordained to the priesthood in 2015.

As pastor of Sts. Mary Magdalene and Markella Greek Orthodox Church in Darlington, Maryland, Fr. Gregory became known for his knowledge of Greek, commitment to parish life, and ability to serve a diverse Orthodox community. He and his wife, Presvytera Rachel, are raising five children in the faith.

The appointment of Fr. Gregory comes nearly two months after the suspension of Archimandrite Chrysostomos Gilbert, former dean of the cathedral, following a misconduct investigation.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the 2026 National YAL Conference drew young adults to Cleveland.