Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Opens 48th Biennial Congress in Cleveland

CLEVELAND, OH — His Eminence Abp. Elpidophoros of America arrived in Cleveland on Saturday, June 27, 2026, ahead of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH), which will bring together clergy, hierarchs, and lay representatives from across the country for prayer, fellowship, and deliberation on the life of the Church.

He was welcomed by His Eminence Metr. Savas of Pittsburgh, the host metropolitan for the congress, along with Fr. George Callos, chancellor of the Metropolis of Pittsburgh, and members of the host committee. The gathering is expected to unfold over several days, beginning with liturgical services and continuing with meetings focused on the Archdiocese’s pastoral and administrative direction.

Also arriving in Cleveland were the representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, including Metr. Arsenios of Austria, Metr. Philotheos of Thessaloniki, and Grand Archimandrite Iakovos (Krochak). Additional members of the Holy Eparchial Synod continued to arrive throughout the day, underscoring the scale and significance of the biennial assembly.

Earlier in the day, St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church in North Royalton hosted the Hierarchical Orthros and Divine Liturgy marking the opening spiritual observance of the congress period. The service drew a large gathering of hierarchs and faithful, including Archons, clergy, parish leaders, and families, who filled the church for the occasion.

During the liturgy, Metr. Arsenios of Austria presided from the throne, while Grand Archimandrite Iakovos served alongside Archdeacon Dionysios Papiris. In his homily, Metr. Arsenios emphasized the role of prayer in forming Christian unity, describing it as the expansion of the heart toward God and others.

Abp. Elpidophoros also addressed those present, speaking about the character of Orthodox life in America and the significance of the Patriarchal delegation’s presence. He highlighted the Archdiocese’s relationship with the Ecumenical Patriarchate and reflected on its historical roots and mission in the United States.

Following the service, Abp. Elpidophoros presented gifts to parish clergy and lay leaders before a festive luncheon hosted by the parish, which extended the day’s tone of hospitality and celebration.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation had honored 57 students at a Chicago gala.