Direct Archdiocesan Clergy gather in Lenten retreat

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Sixty clergy from throughout the Direct Archdiocesan District gathered with His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in Schenectady, New York, for their Annual Clergy Lenten Retreat.

His Eminence offered inspiring words to the gathered clergy. “The experience of your Priesthood is a call to a deeper commitment to the implications of the Divine Liturgy – the Cosmic Liturgy, which brings us beyond the local Parish celebration into vast reaches of spiritual depth,” he said. “Both the local Liturgy, and the infinite Liturgy, are true at the same time, because the Holy Offering transcends space and time. Thus, when you are celebrating in your many Temples, you are all present together in the ‘the Upper Room,’ on Mount Zion, with our Master and Lord, and with His Disciples, on the night in which He gave Himself for the life of the world.”

“You stand not alone before the Holy Altars of your Temples. Your stand aright. You stand in awe. And you stand together in making the Holy Oblation in peace,” His Eminence said.

Clergy listen to Fr. Paul Kaplanis’s presentation. Photo by Direct Archdiocesan District

Rev. Fr. Paul Kaplanis, Dean of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Atlanta, Georgia, served as the keynote speaker and offered thoughtful reflections on the “Experiences of the Priesthood.” Fr. Paul’s heartfelt presentation provided the clergy with a meaningful opportunity for renewal, reflection, and spiritual growth during this sacred Lenten season.

At the conclusion of the retreat, clergy accompanied His Eminence to the NY State Capitol Building for the celebration of Greek Independence Day.