Day two of “Gathered as One Body,” a conference dedicated to disability, accessibility, and inclusion in the Orthodox Church, opened with Divine Liturgy celebrated at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Weston, MA.
The “adaptive” service featured a variety of accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including ASL interpreters, hypoallergenic incense, and a food-sensitive Eucharist.
In attendance was Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who presided and delivered a sermon on Christian compassion that emphasized the radically inclusive character of the Church as the Body of Christ.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Elpidophoros chaired a group of fellow hierarchs—which included Metropolitan Methodios of Boston, Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh, Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago, and Bishop John of Worcester—for a panel discussion on the role and commitment of Church leaders in fostering a more inclusive parish environment.
The reflections of the Hierarchs were followed by a lengthy and fascinating session of questions, comments, and concerns.
Reassuring those gathered how crucial their voices are in shaping the future of the Church, Archbishop Elpidophoros encouraged everyone to cultivate a little “good trouble” in their parish communities.
This sentiment was endorsed by his brother hierarchs, who in their responses expressed a shared commitment to learning from, adapting to, and implementing suggestions by individuals with disabilities, caretakers, and disability advocates.
When it comes to promoting greater inclusivity in the Church, Metropolitan Nathanael encouraged boldness: “There is no need to walk on eggshells. Do not be afraid to crack the egg.”
Text: Huffington Ecumenical Institute, Photos: Jeremy Swartz
