NEW YORK – I foresee a new period of tribulations ahead for the Greek Orthodox Church in America with unpredictable consequences in store for its unity and future, if the Ecumenical Patriarchate does not show some serious decision making. I am alluding to the fact that, sooner or later, Archbishop Demetrios’ tenure will come to an end. Notwithstanding his tireless ministry, he did turn 86 this past February.
It appears as if the Phanar has already started giving initial thought to the scenarios surrounding his successor. Some people are already making haste to ensure that this day will not be too far off, as was the case with the ever-memorable Archbishop Iakovos. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has no leeway left for experimentation and erroneous choices. It has come to a major crossroad in its history.
The Archbishop’s role is critical. Although now is not the time to examine the historical reasons behind this, the Church in America takes on more than just a spiritual role – it also exercises leadership over an entire ethnic group. Therefore, the question of the election/appointment of the next Archbishop of America concerns us all, regardless of whether or not we are members of a parish community, actively involved in community affairs, or indifferent to ecclesiastical affairs.
For example, there is the fact that the Archbishop represents the Greek American Community at the White House during the annual celebration of Greek Independence. At the same time, we are aware of the Church canons and traditions in choosing the head of the Church in America. We are under the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s jurisdiction, and we believe in this institution and its mission. We do not want the Church in America to break away from the Patriarchate because of disagreement. These positions are clear.
However, we ask that this time around, the Ecumenical Patriarchate – and specifically, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew – give a great deal of consideration to the concerns and wishes of the Greek American Community, and not repeat the mistake of 1996. The election/appointment of a new Archbishop – when that time arrives – must be based on the realities, needs, and prospects of the Greek American Community.
The first question that must be answered involves the qualities that the prelate who will succeed the present-day Archbishop ought to possess. Integrity, ecclesiastical ethos, spirituality, and theological knowledge constitute the primary elements in choosing a successor, which ought to be accompanied by lengthy experience ministering to the Greek American Community. In other words, he should be a resident of the United States and come from the clergy of the Greek Orthodox Church in America. This position is clear and I believe that it expresses the wishes of the majority of Greek Americans.
The second question involves the prelate who ought to be named Archbishop Demetrios’ successor. There might be some subjectivity present here, but in order for an argument to be convincing, it must be based on the facts relative to this archbishopric, the candidates’ capabilities and personality, as well as the pastoral ministry he has exhibited up until today. In other words, the qualities that would enable him to become our leader.
I would hope that the rationale behind this article is evident – especially to those in the know. I do not want to touch on the consequences that would follow in the event that the Ecumenical Patriarchate chooses not to hearken to the thoughts and concerns that are prevalent in the Greek American Community, this time around either.
I will limit myself to quoting the well known ancient Greek axiom: “the wise man doesn’t make the same mistake twice.” As for making the same mistake a third time… well, that would prove most dangerous…
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