The Archdiocesan National Ministry directors convened at the Archdiocese Headquarters in New York City on October 1–2, united by a singular mission: to equip ministry leaders and workers to build up the body of Christ in every parish.
Throughout this strategic two-day meeting, the National Ministry directors focused on practical ways to strengthen parish health, enhance ministry effectiveness, and provide robust Christ-centered leadership training. The central question guiding every discussion was simple yet profound: how can our National Ministries better equip those in parish ministry for building up the body of Christ?
Fr. Evan Armatas, Proistamenos of St. Spyridon Church in Loveland, Colorado led an inspirational presentation on reclaiming the Great Commission through Christ-centered parish health, sparking dynamic conversations about supporting our clergy and ministry workers at every level.
A significant portion of the meeting centered around planning for the 2026 Clergy-Laity Congress in Cleveland, Ohio, where the National Ministries are planning a multi-day educational program. Efforts are underway to explore expanding participation so that parish ministry leaders are at the heart of this transformative event. The Congress’s theme, “Rise and Build,” reflects the Archdiocese’s unwavering commitment to parish growth.
The National Ministry directors identified ongoing communication with parish ministry workers as a key challenge. The directors prioritized identifying new strategies to connect with parish ministry leaders and workers. A dedicated session further explored how to re-align the National Ministries social media platforms to equip and engage those on the front lines of ministry better.
Fr. Peter Spiro, Director of the Human Trafficking Awareness Ministry, delivered a powerful message to the National Ministries Team about ministry impact: by training clergy, lay leaders, and parishioners, this ministry equips parishes to recognize the vulnerabilities that may exist within the parish, members of the parish, and parish community. Through partnerships with the Aristevi Foundation and the Chapel of St. Barbara in Nashville, the FREEDOM ministry walks alongside human trafficking survivors, helping them move toward wholeness.
This meeting built on the directors’ previous strategic gathering in June 2025, which included sessions with Archbishop Elpidophoros of America regarding the vision and mission of the National Ministries; insights from Barna Group CEO David Kinneman on converts to the faith; meetings with Archdiocesan Presbyters Council President Fr. Peter Orfanakos and Vice-President Fr. Tom Chininis; and strengthening ministry bonds with the Metropolises. These efforts continue to foster strong teamwork and Christ-centered mission alignment across all the National Ministry departments.
