Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden and All Scandinavia gave a touching speech at the Grand Banquet of the 47th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress of the Holy Archdiocese of America. He recalled the words of the late Archbishop of America, Athenagoras, stressing the importance of upholding Christian values in all interactions. He shared his personal connections with attendees, such as old classmates, coworkers, and friends, and expressed gratitude for representing the Patriarch at the Congress.
He emphasized the significance of this Congress, being the first in the Archdiocese’s second centennial. He acknowledged the changing demographics of congregations, with descendants of migrants and new converts embracing traditions while incorporating new practices. He praised the blend of old and new, including Byzantine music and iconography.
Metropolitan Cleopas encouraged attendees to reflect on their contributions, fellowship, and involvement in the Church’s affairs. He praised the Archdiocese of America as a guiding light for other Eparchies and shared appreciation for the lessons he learned in America that he applied in Scandinavia.
He closed by requesting prayers, invoking blessings, and promoting continued dialogue for the glory of Christ and the growth of His Church. He offered a toast for everyone’s health and success in their involvement at the Congress.
Click below to read the full speech:
As I look around the room tonight, I am reminded of the wise words of the late Archbishop of America and subsequent Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras: “Ελάτε να κοιταχθούμε! Come let us look one another in the eyes.” This phrase was more than just a conversation starter. It was an invitation to reaffirm our Christian values in all our interactions and enrich the world with them. It reminded us that the people in front of us are our partners in shaping history, our fellow laborers in Christ’s vineyard, and our companions at this banquet and the divine banquet of every Divine Liturgy.
Looking at each of you, I am warmed by the familiar faces of old classmates, colleagues from past parishes, fellow clergy, friends, and acquaintances with whom I have shared joys, struggles, and the common mission of glorifying our Lord Jesus Christ and building His Church.
When I was chosen by our Patriarch to represent Him at this year’s Clergy-Laity Congress in San Diego, alongside Archbishop Nikitas, I felt honored to return to the place that played a significant role in my spiritual growth.
This Congress is historic as it marks the beginning of the Archdiocese’s second centennial. With changing times come new challenges for the largest Eparchy of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The congregations, initially formed by migrants and refugees in the early 20th century, have evolved. Descendants of those pioneers now worship alongside converts who have embraced Orthodoxy through various paths. The Orthodox faith has firmly taken root, with young people preserving traditions, keeping the Greek language alive, and blending old practices with new ones.
Guided by a century of experience, the Archdiocese moves forward, inspired by its past and dedicated to shaping the future with God’s grace.
Reflect on your contributions in this city, where you engaged in fellowship and actively participated in Church affairs. The Archdiocese serves as a model for Eparchies worldwide, offering valuable lessons and guidance.
I feel incredibly grateful for all that I have learned here and have strived to implement these teachings in my pastoral work in Scandinavia. Your prayers are greatly appreciated as we seek the Lord’s blessings to continue fostering meaningful connections and conversations for the glory of Christ and the growth of His Church. I raise my glass to wish you all good health and abundant blessings from God. Congratulations on your significant contributions to this year’s Clergy-Laity Congress!
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