Archbishop Elpidophoros of America paid an official visit on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, to the Representation of the Esphigmenou Monastery in Karyes, Mount Athos.
The Archbishop was accompanied by Bishop Ioannis of Phocaea, the Civil Governor of Mount Athos Alkiviadis Stefanis, as well as a group of graduating students from the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology.
During the reception, Archbishop Elpidophoros addressed the Abbot and the brotherhood of the monastery, expressing his hope for their swift return to their monastery.
In his remarks, the Archbishop stressed the importance of implementing both the law and ecclesiastical order, describing the prolonged situation of occupation as “a disgrace,” while also referring to the responsibility of the State to uphold legality.
At the same time, he highlighted the longstanding support of the United States for religious freedom and institutional order.
Concluding his address, Archbishop Elpidophoros underscored the importance of the support offered by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, expressed confidence in the eventual vindication of the monastery brotherhood’s struggle, and made special mention of the trials endured by the late former Elder of the monastery, Elder Chrysostomos.
