Archdiocesan Presbyters Council convened All Clergy Meeting at Clergy-Laity Congress

On Tuesday afternoon, hierarchs and clergy gathered once again during the Clergy-Laity Congress for an All Clergy Meeting, convened by the Archdiocesan Presbyters Council (APC).

The gathering opened with a solemn Trisagion Service, presided over by Patriarchal Representative Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria, in remembrance of hierarchs and clergy who have fallen asleep in the Lord since the 2024 Congress (listed below.)

Following, President of the APC Fr. Peter Orfanakos welcomed the clergy and introduced Archdiocesan Benefits Committee (APC) Chairman Fr. John Touloumas to recognize Director of the Benefits Office Mrs. Anna Vrettos as she retires after serving 28 years in the Benefits Office.

In a moment of particular distinction, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, presented Mrs. Vrettos with Archdiocese Medal of St. Paul, stating, “Axia! Anna, this Medal is in appreciation for your dedicated service to our Church and to our Clergy of the Archdiocese.”

On behalf of the APC, Fr. Orfanakos paid tribute to Miss Paulette Poulos, who is retiring after 60 years of service to the Church, most recently as Executive Director of Leadership 100. Fr. Orfanakos commended her unwavering support of clergy and their families, noting her lifelong dedication to the Church.

Following the presentations, Fr. Orfanakos provided an update on the Council’s ongoing work and initiatives aimed at supporting clergy in both their ministry and personal lives. He also announced the newly appointed APC Board, introducing members of the Executive Committee: President Fr. Peter Orfanakos, Vice President Rick Demetrius Andrews, Treasurer Mario Giannopoulos, and Secretary Michael Ellis.

The session continued with additional reports by Interim President of Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology Fr. Michael Lambakis and Fr. Touloumas.

Memory Eternal!