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# Abp. Elpidophoros Votes in First American Election
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/abp-elpidophoros-votes-in-first-american-election/
- Published: 2026-10-31T13:12:45.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-31T13:12:45.000Z
- Description: Casting his first ballot as an American citizen, Abp. Elpidophoros urged voters to cherish democratic freedoms and preserve unity despite differences.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, Archbishop Elpidophoros (Lambriniadis), Orthodoxy in America, GOARCH

**NEW YORK, NY —** Abp. Elpidophoros of America [cast his first vote](https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story%5Ffbid=1684285929933455&id=100050561916428&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=nU6XoXx5tKzpL4aj#) as a U.S. citizen on October 30, participating in early voting ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. The hierarch became a naturalized American citizen on November 10, 2025.

In a message shared on social media, the head of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) reflected on the significance of voting and the generations who fought to expand access to the ballot. “To vote freely and without fear is a precious right that is still denied to many people around the world,” he wrote, urging Americans to preserve the freedoms secured through past struggles.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/09/260919-GO-1720-1024x683.jpg)On this topicAbp. Elpidophoros Consecrates Only Greek Orthodox Church in Alaska](https://uoj.news/news/abp-elpidophoros-consecrates-only-greek-orthodox-church-in-alaska/)

The Archbishop described the occasion as deeply moving, expressing gratitude to God and to the country that had welcomed him as a citizen. “My heart is full of gratitude to God and to the nation that welcomed me and now calls me its own,” he said.

Abp. Elpidophoros encouraged fellow Americans to participate in the electoral process, whether through early voting or on Election Day. He also called on citizens to move forward together after the votes are counted, respecting one another despite political disagreements and working to maintain harmony.

To emphasize his appeal, the Archbishop cited former President Thomas Jefferson’s observation that “every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle,” along with the biblical exhortation: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” He concluded by asking God to bless the United States and guide its people as they continue their shared journey.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/abp-elpidophoros-receives-28-new-orthodox-at-st-nicholas-shrine/) that Abp. Elpidophoros received 28 new Orthodox Christians at St. Nicholas Shrine.