On Tuesday, June 9, more than 750 clergy and faithful from throughout the Direct Archdiocesan District gathered at VIP Country Club in New Rochelle, New York, for the Annual Servant Leadership Awards Banquet. The faithful were honored by the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and His Eminence Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand as they celebrated the men and women whose faithful service strengthens and enriches the life of the Church.
“We call this a “Servant-Leader” Banquet, and we know that the perfect Servant-Leader is the Good Shepherd, our Lord Jesus Christ, Who models for us how to serve and lead others righteously and rightly; for He guides and protects his flock, and seeks those who are lost,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said. “This is precisely the essence of leadership in the Church – to spare no effort to find the lost sheep.”
> Read His Eminence’s full remarks
Each parish recognized one adult and one young adult whose dedication, generosity, and commitment to Christ and His Church have made a lasting impact on their communities. Their witness reminds us of a profound truth: a parish does not become holy because of its buildings; a parish becomes holy because of the people who offer their hearts to God and their hands to His work. Through their selfless service, these honorees embody the spirit of servant leadership and inspire all of us to continue building up the Body of Christ for generations to come. Congratulations to this year’s distinguished recipients and may God continue to bless their ministries.
