On the evening of Friday, February 7, 2025, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America visited the headquarters of the Romanos the Melodist Chanters’ Society located at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration in Corona, New York.
This yearly gathering brings together many chanters and supporters of Byzantine Music, reaffirming the Society’s commitment to preserving and promoting the sacred musical tradition of the Orthodox Church.
The Archbishop performed the annual tradition of cutting the Vasilopita and blessed the members of the Society, wishing them good health in the year ahead as well as ample strength from above for the forthcoming Triodion period of the Church.
In his remarks, His Eminence thanked the members of the Society for their unwavering devotion and service to the Church.
He encouraged them to continue their work both collectively as a group and individually as cantors in their respective parishes.
The Archbishop also emphasized the important role of the Psaltic Art in the divine services and the liturgical experience of the faithful, who are to be uplifted spiritually as a congregation by the melodies of the Church’s hymns. His Eminence ended by extending his paternal blessings and commendation to all.
In turn, the President of the Society, Mr. Evangelos Zaharatos, welcomed His Eminence and conveyed everyone’s gratitude for the Archbishop’s venerable presence and steadfast support.
He expressed the Society’s continued commitment to its ongoing efforts to expand its educational initiatives and strengthen its presence and participation in the Archdiocesan District.
He thanked everyone for their heartfelt support and assistance thus far and emphasized the need for active involvement and participation moving forward.
Following the Vasilopita cutting, a reception was held in the community’s hall, where everyone had the opportunity to enjoy the remainder of the evening and engage in mutual fellowship.
Photos: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos
