The 2025 Clergy-Laity Assembly for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco convened on May 5 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. The theme of the Assembly focused on “Our Faith Can Move Mountains”.
The Assembly began with an opening prayer service led by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who also offered welcoming remarks, making special note of the 20th Anniversary of Metropolitan Gerasimos as shepherd of the Metropolis of San Francisco, presenting him with an engolpion to commemorate this occasion.
In his Keynote Address, Metropolitan Gerasimos reflected on his 20-year ministry in the Metropolis of San Francisco stating, “These 20 years together, I share with you, the faithful clergy and laity of this blessed Metropolis, have indeed moved mountains, but not because of me, but because of God’s unfailing love and grace and mercy. I have been blessed to have over 100 priests in this Metropolis who are laboring in the Lord’s vineyard. I have the support of our administrative staff who work tirelessly to keep the wheels of our Metropolis turning. We have dedicated ministry leaders who are creating, implementing and growing the work we do as a Metropolis. It is not ‘my’ anniversary to celebrate 20 years as your Metropolitan. It is the work of our entire Metropolis family, you and me together, blessed and guided by God that has made all this possible.”
Other guest speakers for the day included Rev. Father Martin Ritsi, Executive Director of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) who spoke on the theme “Our Faith Can Move Mountains”, and whose presentation will continue on the second day of the Assembly. Eva Konstantakos, National Director of the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries of the also offered a presentation on the vast array of youth programs and resources available from the Archdiocese. The day concluded with an outdoor dessert reception and Ministry Pavilion where delegates engaged with Metropolis Ministry leaders who shared valuable resources for parishes and faithful, highlighting the diverse and vibrant ministries offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.
Photo Credit: Kostas Petrakos Photography
