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The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is pleased to announce that on September 26, 2025, Governor Hochul signed into law Chapter 417 of the Laws of 2025 (A7892 – Braunstein), amending the Religious Corporations Law as it applies to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and its parishes in the State of New York. Finally, the Archdiocese is expressly recognized in the statute alongside other hierarchical churches like the Roman Catholic, Episcopal, and AME Zion Churches.
As a result, the sale, mortgage, or long-term lease (greater than five years) of parish property will no longer require the approval of the Attorney General. Instead, the consent of His Eminence the Archbishop is required, reflecting the hierarchical structure of our Church and ensuring that the Archdiocese is now treated in the same manner as other major religious bodies.
We also emphasize that this reform does not diminish the safeguards that protect parish property. Court approval remains a mandatory part of the process, ensuring transparency, oversight, and compliance with both ecclesiastical and civil law. These protections continue to guarantee that parish assets are administered responsibly and in the best interests of the Faithful.
The Archdiocese welcomes this important amendment, which both honors our canonical structure and preserves the highest standards of accountability in the stewardship of our sacred properties, while at the same time streamlining and expediting the process for our parishes. We also would like to express our gratitude to Assemblyman Andrew Braunstein and Senator Michael Giannaris for their efforts to sponsor the legislation.
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