The process of revising the Charter of the Archdiocese of America was the main topic discussed at the meetings of the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Archbishop Elpidophoros of America attended the meeting at the Phanar as well.
The Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate instructed the Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of America to thoroughly look into Archbishop Elpidophoros’ proposals for the revision of the provisions of the current Charter. By ratifying the previous decision, the Archbishop of America was encouraged to expand the dialogue with the clergy and laity throughout America.
In fact, the discussion in regards to this matter will continue in the context of the meetings of the Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of America around mid-June.
Meanwhile, the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate decided to continue the sitting of the Joint Committee which was set up for the revision of the Charter under the chairmanship of Elder Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon next September.
Finally, the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate decided that the Metochia of the Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of Saint Irene Chrysovalantou in Astoria would be brought into the Archdiocese of America by adopting the relevant proposal of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.
The Archbishop of America expressed his gratitude for the trust they had in him and the encouragement of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in the context of the process of revising the Charter of the Archdiocese of America.
He commited and affirmed that the process of revision of the Charter would happen with transparency and mutual cooperation between all stakeholders, since the Charter of the Archdiocese of America is of major importance.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Ecumenical Patriarch for assigning the responsibility to him for the management of the Metochia of the Holy Monastery which will become parishes of the Archdiocese of America.
Source: ANA-MPA
