Archbishop Elpidophoros of America is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Theo Nicolakis, an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, as Director of National Ministries for the Holy Archdiocese of America. This position, dormant since 1999, will coordinate and align the strategy, programs, resources, strategic partnerships, and success metrics for the Archdiocese’s National Ministries with parish needs. He will coordinate other ministry program initiatives as designated by Archbishop Elpidophoros.
“Archon Nicolakis’ commitment to our Church in America and our Ecumenical Patriarchate and his contributions to harnessing technology for the Church’s service are well known,” said Archbishop Elpidophoros. “His track record of delivering parish-centered ministry services and broad experience—from parish council president to CIO for the Holy and Great Council of Crete—all speak to the ministry perspective he will bring to the new position.”
Establishing the Director of National Ministries position reflects Archbishop Elpidophoros’ unwavering commitment to bolster the clergy and enhance local parish ministries. Archbishop Elpidophoros has made strengthening parish ministries a top priority for the Archdiocesan Council’s agenda and a focal point for the 2026 Clergy-Laity Congress.
“I am humbled and thank Archbishop Elpidophoros for entrusting me with this new role,” said Archon Nicolakis. “My priority is to listen to the needs of our clergy and parishes and work collaboratively with our Metropolises to provide the essential ministry tools, services, and strategic partnerships that will cultivate our faithful’s faith and growth in Christ.”
During his 30 years of Archdiocesan service, Archon Nicolakis has served as Internet Ministries Director, IT Director, and since 2010, Chief Information Officer. He is renowned for spearheading the Archdiocese’s digital transformation, including the creation of the Archdiocesan website and innovative services like the Online Chapel, Bulletin Builder, and the Daily Readings mobile app. He brings decades of experience in parish leadership, youth ministry, and launching Scripture initiatives such as the Orthodox Children’s Bible Reader and the first-ever Orthodox Christian Military edition of the New Testament.
A graduate of our Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, he also holds a master’s in Management and Systems from NYU.
The Archdiocese’s National Ministries consist of: The School of Byzantine Music, Digital Liturgical Arts, National Human Trafficking Awareness Ministry, Greek Education, Internet Ministries, Marriage and Family, Outreach and Evangelism, Religious Education, Sacramental Registry services, Stewardship, and Youth and Young Adult Ministries.
Photo: Orthodox Observer.