Abp. Sotirios to Step Down After 52 Years

TORONTO — Abp. Sotirios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada has confirmed that he plans to step down from his position in early July, bringing to a close more than five decades of episcopal ministry in Canada. Speaking during a pastoral visit to Vancouver, he confirmed reports of his impending resignation and said he intends to travel to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople on the first Saturday of July to discuss the matter with Patr. Bartholomew before making further public statements.

The announcement comes shortly after celebrations marking Abp. Sotirios’ 90th birthday, an event attended by members of Canada’s Greek Orthodox community. His retirement would conclude a remarkable ecclesiastical career that began in the early 1960s and has been closely tied to the growth of Orthodox Christianity across Canada.

Born in Lepiana, Arta, Greece, in 1936, Abp. Sotirios studied theology in Athens and later earned a master’s degree from the Université de Montréal. Ordained deacon and priest in July 1962, he spent his entire clerical ministry in Canada. Consecrated a bishop in 1974, he later became Metr. of Toronto and Exarch of All Canada in 1996 before being elevated to Archbishop of Canada in 2019.

Under his leadership, the number of parishes in Canada grew from 22 to 75. He also oversaw the creation of youth ministries, charitable initiatives, educational institutions, monasteries, media programs, and social service organizations that helped shape Orthodox life throughout the country.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Joachim announced his retirement after many years of service at HCHC.