A wave of excitement and anticipation swept through the air as the illustrious Saint John the Theologian Cathedral in Tenafly welcomed Metropolitan Apostolos as its new spiritual leader. This momentous occasion marked a significant chapter in the Greek Orthodox Metropolis’s history, spanning New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.
The enthronement ceremony resonated with deep meaning and reverence in the presence of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and alongside esteemed bishops and priests. The cathedral was abuzz with dignitaries, including members of the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s Order of Saint Andrew, the Leadership 100 council, representatives of community organizations and parishes, Catholic Church officials, Greece’s Secretary General for Hellenism Abroad, and the Greek Consul General of New York, among other distinguished guests.
Metropolitan Apostolos was born in Rhodes, Greece, and studied theology and Byzantine music before moving to the US in 2001. He earned a Master’s in Theology from Boston University while serving Greek Orthodox parishes in Massachusetts. He later became Dean of the St. Demetrios Cathedral in New York. Over the years, Metropolitan Apostolos held various leadership positions within the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Most recently, he cared for the spiritual needs of the Metropolis of New Jersey. In July 2023, the Ecumenical Patriarchate elected him as the new Metropolitan of New Jersey.
As the ceremony drew close, Archbishop Elpidophoros eloquently described the day as a moment of joy for the entire Metropolis. He emphasized the sacred nature of Metropolitan Apostolos’ appointment, an outcome of the resolute decision made by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the Holy Synod.
In an inspiring charge, the Archbishop called upon Metropolitan Apostolos to lead with the same humility, grace, and spirit of sacrifice embodied by the Ecumenical Patriarch. As the shepherd of this devout flock, he shoulders the great responsibility of strengthening the Metropolis’ spiritual mission.
Adding his voice in support, Metropolitan Kyrillos of Rhodes urged Apostolos to serve with unwavering devotion and to tend to his congregation with the gifts and compassion that define his sacred calling.
Expressing deep reverence for the Patriarchate, Metropolitan Apostolos extended his gratitude to Patriarch Bartholomew for bestowing his trust upon him. He pledged tireless efforts towards the pastoral, charitable, social, and missionary work of the Metropolis. The Metropolitan also offered heartfelt appreciation to Archbishop Elpidophoros for his invaluable mentorship, the esteemed guests for gracing the occasion with their presence, and his family for their unwavering support.
Following the awe-inspiring ceremony, a joyous luncheon was held, with the proceeds generously donated to youth ministries as per the Metropolitan’s request. The Consul General and other dignitaries vowed to collaborate wholeheartedly with the new spiritual leader, working towards the betterment of the community and the preservation of Hellenic heritage.
The enthronement of Metropolitan Apostolos stands as an inspiring testament to the abiding power of faith, leadership, and devotion. With his unwavering commitment and the support of the faithful, the Metropolis embarks on a new era, fortified by the wisdom and guidance of its esteemed spiritual leader.