2006 MINUTES

The 2006 Clergy/Laity Assembly officially opens with the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians singing the Greek and American National Anthems followed by a prayer service lead by His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos at 10:43 A.M.

His Eminence states that 113 Delegates have registered and recognizes the presence of a quorum.

His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos appoints Dr. George Kaludis, Vice-President of the Metropolitan Council, as chairman of the Clergy/Laity Assembly. Upon accepting the appointment, Dr. George Kaludis appoints Rev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Secretary of the Metropolitan Council, as Secretary of the Clergy/Laity Assembly.

Dr. George Kaludis welcomes and recognizes those seated on the dais (in seated order:) Ms. Bessie Drogaris, President of the Metropolis of New Jersey Philoptochos; Ms. Georgia Skeadas, President of National Philoptochos; Rev. Fr. Anargyros Stavropoulos, Chancellor of the Metropolis of New Jersey; His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos; Mr. James Fountas, Treasurer of the Metropolitan Council; Mr. James Youlios; Rev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Secretary of the Metropolitan Council and Rev. Fr. James Moulketis, President of the Archdiocese Presbyter’s Council and President of the Metropolis of New Jersey Clergy Syndesmos.

Dr. George Kaludis welcomes and reminds all that the purpose of this gathering is to learn and also increase our knowledge of the faith. Mention is made of the upcoming National Clergy/Laity to be held in Nashville, Tennessee from July 16 – July 21. Our Metropolis is relatively young having only been recently established by the new Charter. Thus, the institutions of the Metropolis are also young but they are being built-up and made stronger. Each of us should be dedicated to our holy work and with enthusiasm pursue our faith.

At 11:05 A.M., His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos welcomes all to the 2006 Clergy/Laity Assembly and Philoptochos Convention. His Eminence proceeds to convey his archpastoral exhortation.[1]

The personal goal of His Eminence is to have the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey to be the guardian of faith and hope offering these as the fruits of salvation. The ministries of the Metropolis are various and ready to expand. These ministries are seen as vehicles bringing about salvation. In order to progress as a Metropolis, we must be united and share in a common vision. Each of us must create a spiritual oasis within our churches. A strong bond exists which unites us to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and to His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew.

a. Clergy Syndesmos - comprising the clergy of the Metropolis. They struggle daily preaching the Word of God to the faithful.

b. Metropolitan Council – chiefly thanking the service of Dr. George Kaludis, Vice-President; Mr. James Fountas is recognized for his dedicated service as he offers many hours doing Christ’s work. Mr. James Youlios is recognized for offering himself to the service of the church. Thanks is also given to all the members of the Metropolitan Council who are present.

c. Philoptochos – makes the word of the Lord come alive in those who are poor and sick. They are indeed a wellspring of inspiration.

Our Metropolis is growing as more Christians are introduced to and accept the Orthodox Faith. A new community in Williamsburg, Va. has recently been established.

St. Basil’s Academy and St. Michael’s Home for the Aged are important institutions and ministries. This past spring the Metropolis honored the teachers of our Greek Afternoon Schools. Those who teach our children are thanked. Thanks is extended to Rev. Fr. Christ Kontos for enhancing and maintaining the web-site which disseminates Metropolis of New Jersey information. Since last spring over 15,000 hits were recorded on this site. Developmental cost for the web-site has been very low. The most important investment was a digital camera. The Metropolis Folk Dance Festival (FDF) organized by Rev. Fr. Cosmas Karavellos and hosted by Sts. Constantine and Helen G.O.C. of Annapolis, Maryland and also the Outdoor Metropolitan Olympics which both have over 500 participating children are extremely successful. Over 2000 faithful with 51 divers participated in last year’s Holy Cross Day celebration in Asbury Park. The first performance of the newly formed Metropolis of New Jersey Byzantine Choir was held in the month of December at Rutgers University. This choir is under the directorship of Nicholas Tsingas (Trenton). Over 500 individuals attended this concert with the majority being students of Rutgers University. On March 25, another concert was held at Rutgers University celebrating the feast day of the Annunciation and Greek Independence. Two more Byzantine concerts were held, one being at St. George Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA and the other at St. John the Theologian Cathedral in Tenafly, NJ. The Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians held their Lenten concert in Flemington, N.J. on April 14, 2006.

A number of Clergy gatherings occurred. The clergy at the last retreat was honored to have the Grand Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, George Tzetsis, as retreat master. The annual Presvyteres retreat was held at St. Nicholas in Baltimore MD.

Rev. Fr. Demetrios Constantelos, a renowned Byzantine Scholar and member of the faculty at Stockton College, unfortunately will not be with us due to an illness and hospitalization. His presentation will be given by Rev. Fr. George Liakopoulos.

Parish Councils members, Ladies of Philoptochos, the faithful and the friends of the Metropolis.

Following the Archpastoral Exhortation the Ladies of Philoptochos dismiss to conduct business.

Rev. Fr. George Liakopoulos reads Rev. Fr. Demetrios Constantelos’ presentation entitled “Origins of Christian Orthodox Diakonia: Christian Orthodox Philanthropy in Church History.”

The Metropolis of New Jersey is comprised of 55 Parishes throughout the mid-Atlantic States. The Metropolis is divided into 5 regions (Northern Jersey, Delaware Valley, Northern Virginia, Virginia and Maryland) with each region having a vicar as the bishop’s representative. His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos is the administrative leader and ecclesiastical authority of the Metropolis. The Metropolis should be seen as a source of support offering itself to the local parish and the Orthodox faithful. The local parish in turn seeks to support and advance the ministries of the Metropolis. It is the duty of the Chancellor to assist the Metropolitan with particular issues that may develop in a parish. The Metropolis should be seen as a resource center for the local parish in helping to enhance and maintain its local ministries. The Registry Department requires much time and energy. Marriage Tribunals have been reorganized in order to better serve the faithful. The office of Chief Secretary keeps the local parish informed and connected to the Metropolis by issuing various encyclicals, guidelines and letters from the Metropolitan. It is, therefore, imperative that each parish respond to the information that comes from the Metropolis in a timely manner.

On the occasion of His Eminence’s third anniversary to the Episcopacy, a sheet-cake is offered.

We equaled our total of 2004 for this past year reaching 99.8% of our monies allocated to the Archdiocese. Total Commitment Results as of December 31, 2005: 38 parishes are at 100% and 15 Parishes not at 100%. 95% of a total equaling $1,602,342 out of $1,687,250 has been received.

The youth ministries are amongst the highest priority for Metropolitan Evangelos. Our stated goal is to create more Metropolis events in order to bring together the youth from the various regions of the Metropolis. Currently, the Youth Ministries exist as a) Metropolis- wide events, b) District-wide events broken into the various regions and c) local/parish events.

Metropolis-wide events include: Folk Dance Festival (FDF) which attracted a record number of dance groups; St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival; Metropolis GOYA Olympics; Camp Good Shepherd (thanks to His Eminence’s efforts this camp was brought back into the boundaries of the Metropolis and will occur this year from July 9 – July 15.)

District-wide events include: Certain athletic and sporting events; dances, camps; charity events like a walk-a-thon, etc.; social events; Mr. and Mrs. GOYA, as found in Northern New Jersey; Chesapeake Youth Camp, as found in Maryland.

Local-wide events include: These are perhaps the most intimate and effective ministries since they are found on this level. Orthodox College Fellowship (OCF) with an email database to communicate with college aged students and also young professionals is encouraged. JOY, with this group we start our preparatory work for when they move into GOYA.

A short power-point presentation, including pictures of Metropolis youth programs, is offered. The Youth presentation ends with questions and comments. His Eminence states that OCF is the only campus ministry in which the parishes should offer donations.

Dr. George Kaludis opens nominations for the eight (8) representatives to serve on the Metropolitan Council and for the two (2) representatives to serve on the Archdiocesan Council.

Nominations for election to the Metropolitan Council will be held open until tomorrow (May 9, 2006) at 11:00 A.M. Further nominations must be submitted to Rev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Secretary of Clergy/Laity Assembly using the appropriate nomination form.

The nomination of Barbara Vlatas is stricken as she is not a delegate of the Clergy/Laity.

Nominations for election to the Archdiocesan Council will be held open until tomorrow (May 9, 2006) at 11:00 A.M. Further nominations must be submitted to Rev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Secretary of Clergy/Laity Assembly using the appropriate nomination form.

His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos opens session beginning with prayer at 9:49 A.M.

Rev. Fr. Demetrios Constantelos’ presentation will not be presented but will, however, be distributed to the delegates.

Dr. George Kaludis asks if there are any more nominations. None where presented. He moves to close nominations for Metropolitan and Archdiocesan Councils. Motion accepted unanimously.

Reading of Minutes of 2005 Clergy/Laity. CORRECTIONS: page 2, #6 subject line – Finances of the Greek Orthodox Church should read Finances of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.

Motion: [Nick Carras/Rev. Fr. Stanley Voyianzakis] – To approve the Minutes as corrected of the previous Clergy/Laity Assembly held on March 28, 2005.

Dr. George Kaludis introduces Mr. Jerry Dimitriou, Executive Director of Administration. Mr. Dimitriou remarks on the finances of the Archdiocese including the financial results for the year 2005. His presentation includes subjects that touch upon Metropolis fundraising, Total Commitment (Stewardship) with an introduction to a new system of determining allocations and the Archdiocese debt. Mr. Dimitriou’s presentation ends with him taking questions and comments. The full report will be posted on the Metropolis of New Jersey web site.

Dr. George Kaludis introduces the Parliamentarian - Constantine Economides – St. Luke – Broomall, PA.

Mr. James Fountas, Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Metropolitan Council, give the Financial Report.

Motion: [Rev. Fr. George Matsis/George Sempeles] – To accept, as reported, the Financial Report. VOTE – Unanimous. Motion Passes. Financial Report accepted as presented by the Treasurer.

Dr. George Kaludis encourages the Assembly to direct the Metropolitan Council to create a plan for the parishes to financially support the Metropolis and for each delegate to go back to their respective parish to establish a more disciplined approach in supporting the Metropolis.

Motion: [Peter Dionisos/Rev. Fr. Procopios Nikas] - The Metropolitan Council is directed under the supervision of His Eminence to create by September 1, 2006 a uniformed plan of support so that each parish might better provide for the finances of the Metropolis. VOTE – Unanimous. Motion Passes.

His Eminence congratulates the owners of the Venetian for their donation of space and assistance.

Dr. George Kaludis introduces Mr. Anthony Limberakis, Commander of the Archons of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. Mr. Limberakis speaks regarding the current crisis of survival of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople. In 1922, with the creation of the new Turkish Government, no recognition of the Patriarchate as a legal institute occurred, therefore the Patriarchate has virtually no rights. Over the ensuing years many institutions, properties and establishments have been seized and confiscated by the Turkish Government. Presently, the Patriarchate does not have the legal right to buy, sell or inherit property.

c) Turkish Government interfering with the election of the Ecumenical Patriarch. The election should be free and open to all Hierarchs.

d) Restrictions on immigration concerning Clergy and Laity working at the Patriarchate.

Resolution: Motion: [George Sempeles /Body of Assembly] - The Metropolitan Council of New Jersey, consisting of clergy and lay representatives from its parishes in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia unanimously passed a Resolution in support of the efforts of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle to stop Turkey’s denial of the religious/human rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate that threatens its very survival.

This Assembly has thereby authorized that this Resolution be transmitted to President Bush and to all United States Senators, with a copy to be sent to His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Amended Motion - The Metropolis of New Jersey, consisting of clergy and lay representatives from its parishes in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia unanimously passed a Resolution in support of the efforts of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle condemning the Turkish Government for its denial of the religious and human rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate that threatens its very survival.

Corollary to Resolution – Motion: [Andreas Comodromos/ Rev. Fr. Costa Pavlatos] – For the Vice-president and Secretary to craft a letter to His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew in support of this effort. VOTE – Unanimous. Corollary to Resolution Passes.

· Parish Development Workshop – [Rev. Fr. Nap Dokas/ Rev. Fr. Constantine Moralis/ Dina Motsiopoulos]

After much discussion it was felt that a two tiered approach would be beneficial to assist in the development and establishment of new parishes within the Metropolis. The first tier will be a more pro-active involvement in educating the faithful of the Metropolis in partnering to assist and nurture new parishes into existence. Education is key because many mature parishes may view a new parish as a threat to their own membership and stewardship. Education would and could include the recommendation and support of the Metropolitan. An example was given that if every parish donated just $2,000 towards the formation of a new parish, a new community could realize $100,000.00 towards the purchase of a piece of property or building.

Secondly: Could specific guidelines be formulated for those faithful that are considering beginning a new parish. There were guidelines in place years ago, however, times have changed and monetary guidelines have changed. These guidelines would be very beneficial with clear outlines and steps to secure the statues of a future new parish.

In conclusion: New parishes are a very positive addition to our Metropolis and we applaud the effort of you faithful who continue to carry out the word of Saint Paul and we hope that the three new parishes of our blessed Metropolis mature and become vibrant centers of Orthodox Christianity in the near future. This is indeed a positive addition and shows growth in our Metropolis and should be enthusiastically supported by all. VOTE – Unanimous. Resolution Passes.

arrangements to all women present and with the chanting of Christos Anesti at 3:33 pm.

[1] Copies of both the English and Greek texts are on file and available upon request.

[2] A copy of the Total Commitment report is on file and available upon request.

[3] A copy of the Financial Report is on file and available upon request.