January Feature: Archbishop Demetrios

January Feature: Archbishop Demetrios

Archbishop Demetrios

Archbishop Demetrios in Hicksville, NY

January 8, 2014-After the tragedy and horror of September 11, 2001, a cloaked messenger of prayer and love was introduced to the world of the non-Orthodox.  This spiritual messenger was the leader of Greek Orthodox Christians in North and South America; Archbishop Demetrios.

Born Demetrios Trakatellis in 1928 in Thessaloniki, Greece; he came to the United States in 1965, making him a Diasporite.  As a member of the clergy and a scholar, he distinguished himself as an intellect, teacher, and a man whose message was centered on love.   Love of God, Love of Christ, Love of mankind have all been common themes of his ministry, from his time as a deacon to his enthronement in 1999, as the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church in the Western Hemisphere.  

He has been active in transcending his Greek Orthodox roots, and healing age-old rifts with the Catholic Church, Orthodox Christians of other denominations, including the Russians, and people of the Jewish Faith.  

Archbishop Demetrios Blessing The Children 

With President Bush (43)

He has, similarly, with his positive message and vibrant sense of humor, been embraced by Secular Society, including American Presidents and politicians on both sides of the political aisle.

Pope-Emeritus  Benedict

Archbishop Demetrios is not only the leader of Greek Orthodox Christians in the Western Hemisphere, he is a philanthropist, a humanitarian, and an Ecumenist.  Archbishop Demetrios is a beacon of humanity and a shining positive example for all Greeks in the Diaspora, spiritual and secular.

God Bless Him!