The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has announced the completion of the ecclesiastical investigation process into the allegations filed against Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert. The disciplinary measures imposed on him and his removal from pastoral duties have been made public.
According to the announcement, the case was examined through a thorough and impartial process, conducted in accordance with the Archdiocese’s established procedures for addressing allegations of clergy misconduct. After reviewing Fr Chrysostomos’ testimony, the investigation findings, and all available evidence, the relevant ecclesiastical judicial body concluded that the priest had engaged in inappropriate electronic communications inconsistent with the expected moral character and spiritual responsibility of a priest and spiritual father.
After reaching this decision, the members of the ecclesiastical judicial body met with Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who decided to relieve Fr Chrysostomos of his duties at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and suspend him from all priestly ministry.
Taking into account the seriousness of the findings and the Church’s concern for the spiritual and personal restoration of its clergy, the Archbishop also directed Fr Chrysostomos to undergo appropriate treatment, receive spiritual guidance, and participate in a structured programme of reintegration into pastoral ministry.
As stated in the announcement, his return to active ministry will only be considered after he has successfully completed this process, provided that the Archbishop deems him fit to resume pastoral responsibilities.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America emphasised that it remains firmly committed to the principles of ecclesiastical integrity, accountability, and pastoral care for the faithful. The Archdiocese also expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the investigation and review by the relevant ecclesiastical authorities.
Finally, the Archdiocese asked the faithful to pray for Fr Chrysostomos, the Holy Trinity parish, and all those affected by this matter.
Find below the announcement of the Archdiocese of America:
Following a full and fair investigation conducted pursuant to the Archdiocese’s Clergy Misconduct Policy concerning allegations involving V. Rev. Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert, and after consideration of Fr. Chrysostomos’ testimony, together with the findings of the investigation and other evidence presented to the Spiritual Court, the Court has determined that Fr. Chrysostomos engaged in inappropriate electronic communications that were not consistent with the conduct expected of a spiritual father and priest.
Following this determination, the members of the Spiritual Court met with His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, who decided that Fr. Chrysostomos must be relieved of his duties at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and suspended from the exercise of priestly ministry.
Recognizing both the seriousness of these findings and the Church’s commitment to the spiritual healing and restoration of its clergy, the Archbishop further directed Fr. Chrysostomos to undertake a period of therapeutic treatment, spiritual counseling, and pastoral rehabilitation. Any future consideration of a return to active ministry will be contingent upon his successful completion of this process and a determination by the Archbishop that he is fit to resume pastoral responsibilities.
The Archdiocese remains committed to fostering an environment of integrity, accountability, and pastoral care for all the faithful entrusted to its ministry. The Archdiocese is grateful to all who participated in the investigative and ecclesiastical processes and asks the faithful to keep Fr. Chrysostomos, the Holy Trinity community, and all involved in their prayers.
