The Township of Cherry Hill has formally recognized Very Rev. Archimandrite Avgoustinos Psomas for his three and a half years of service as parish priest of Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church.
In a proclamation signed by Mayor David Fleisher and the Township Council, Father Avgoustinos was praised for his leadership, pastoral care, and dedication to both the parish and the wider community.
Since arriving at Saint Thomas in January 2022, he became a steady presence. Parishioners remember his homilies as thoughtful and his leadership as calm and consistent. He guided the parish through celebrations and hardships, offering comfort and encouragement with a lighthearted spirit.
The proclamation also highlighted his work to strengthen Greek Orthodox education, expand ministries, and welcome new members with openness. Under his guidance, the Saint Thomas Agora Festival grew, sharing Greek food, music, and tradition with the wider Cherry Hill community.
Father Avgoustinos began his ministry in the United States in 2013 and served in several roles before coming to Saint Thomas. Known for his integrity and humility, he quickly earned respect across the Archdiocese. In Cherry Hill, those same qualities shaped parish life day to day. The township described him as a priest who “endeared himself to all and enriched the life of our community through his genuine pastoral care.”
This recognition comes as he prepares for the next step in his ministry. While his new assignment has not yet been announced, the legacy he leaves is clear. Mayor Fleisher urged citizens to join him in commending Father Avgoustinos for his unwavering service and dedication.
For the parish, the proclamation was more than a formality. It reflected the close bond between Saint Thomas and Cherry Hill, as well as the Greek Orthodox community’s place in township life. As Father Avgoustinos moves on, the words of civic leaders serve as both farewell and thank-you, honoring a priest whose influence reached far beyond the church walls.