On Sunday, June 28, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America visited St. Demetrios Church in Rocky River, Ohio, for its annual Greek Festival, following a full day of prayer and celebration marking the opening of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
Archbishop Elpidophoros was joined by Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh, host Metropolitan; His Eminence Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria, His Eminence Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, and Grand Archimandrite Iakovos (Krochak), Patriarchal Representatives; members of the Holy Eparchial Synod; and Congress Co-Chairs John and Effie Trihas.
The delegation was warmly received by parish priest Fr. Andrew Lentz, together with parishioners and the youth of the community, who welcomed them with enthusiasm and joy. During their visit, the hierarchs toured the church, taking time to admire its beauty and spiritual significance. To commemorate the occasion, the bishops signed the Holy Gospel, leaving a lasting testament to their visit.
The evening continued in a spirit of fellowship and celebration over a shared meal prepared by church members and concluded with an energetic presentation of traditional Greek dances by the parish’s GOYA youth, whose performances reflected the enduring connection between faith, heritage, and community life.
