The Ministry Pavilion and Exhibit Hall of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the Atrium, marking the beginning of one of the most vibrant and engaging spaces of the Congress.
Archbishop Elpidophoros of America presided over the ceremony, joined by His Eminence Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh, Host Metropolitan; Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria, Patriarchal Representative; Michael Bapis, Leadership 100 Chairman; Fr. Panagiotis Papazafiropoulos, Leadership 100 Executive Director; and Paulette Poulos Leadership 100 Senior Advisor.
Clergy-Laity Congress Co-Chairs John and Effie Trihas began the program by welcoming all the visitor and exhibitors. Attended by clergy and faithful along with exhibitors and ministry representatives, the ribbon-cutting formally inaugurates the hall, which has been generously sponsored by Leadership 100 for decades.
On the evening of June 29, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America hosted a “Thank You Dinner” for the dedicated committee members and volunteers who contributed to the organization of the Clergy-Laity Congress. The gathering offered an opportunity to recognize the many individuals whose quiet labor and dedication will make a lasting impact on this year’s Congress.
Congress Co-Chairs John and Effie Trihas offered deep thanks to their committee chairs, recognizing them for their sacrifice and dedication over the past year.
In his remarks, Archbishop Elpidophoros also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the countless hours of service offered by volunteers, noting that the spirit of the Congress is sustained the commitment and generosity of those working behind the scenes.
Photos by Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman
