On Monday, June 2, 2025, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America attended a symposium titled “A Century of Patriarchate, a Legacy of Faith: The Romanian Orthodox Church through History.”
The event was organized by the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas, the Consulate General of Romania in New York, and the Romanian Cultural Institute in New York.
The program featured remarks by Metropolitan Nicolae of the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas, Mihaela-Simona Florea, Consul General of Romania in New York, and Dorian Branea, Director of the Romanian Cultural Institute in New York. Daniel Ene also offered a presentation on the 100-year history of the Romanian Patriarchate.
During the Conference, Archbishop Elpidophoros extended his heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and remarked: “The establishment of the Patriarchate of Romania stands as a powerful testament to a century of devotion to Christ, fidelity to Holy Tradition, martyrdom, and steadfast service to the Romanian Orthodox faithful throughout the world. His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel is a most worthy successor to his distinguished predecessors, and he has consistently led the Romanian Church in positive and life-affirming pathways.”
He further stated: “Today, as we reflect on this historical journey—from the granting of autocephaly by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1885 to the present day—we give thanks to God for the vision and labor of your blessed ancestors. They planted the seeds of the Church in new lands, nurturing them through prayer, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to Orthodoxy. In the United States, the faithful of the Romanian Orthodox Church have established vibrant cultural centers within their parishes—beacons of tradition and spiritual sustenance for generations to come.”
Following the symposium, attendees were invited to view an exhibition of historic photographs retracing the Romanian Orthodox Church’s journey to Patriarchal status.
Photo: Orthodox Observer
