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Orthodox Observer - February 5, 1999

Cathedral Assumes Leadership Role in New Ministry initiatives

NEW YORK-.  Holy Trinity Archdiocesan Cathedral has taken the initiative under a proposed plan by Archbishop Spyridon for new model ministry programs in areas that include hospital, prison, homebound and campus ministries, among others.

The Archbishop charged the Cathedral dean, the Rev. Robert Stephanopoulos, with the task of spearheading the proposed initiatives. His Eminence met with Fr. Stephanopoulos on Jan. 21 to discuss the ambitious proposals.

Specifically, the initiatives will encompass a coordinated hospital ministry for Manhattan, a similar coordinated prison ministry, a ministry to the homebound (elderly and physically challenged), coordinated college and university ministry, a ministry of premarital counseling, an expanded ministry for social concerns, including the Ronald McDonald House, mental health institutions and, building on the Cathedral's already established Soup Kitchen, aid to the needy.

The Cathedral, founded in 1892, is the See of the Archbishop of America under His Eminence's direct administration.

Existing programs and ministries at the Cathedral include a vibrant Day School, a Greek education program, a soup kitchen and a renowned choir, under Maestro Dino Anagnost.

Archbishop Spyridon has also broadened the responsibilities of the Archiepiscopal Vicar of the Cathedral, the Very Rev. Archimandrite Gabriel Karambis, to include direct oversight of the administrative and liturgical operation of the Cathedral on behalf of His Eminence.

Archimandrite Karambis was appointed Archiepiscopal Vicar on Jan. 1,1998.

Previous Vicars have been Bishop Philotheos of Meloa and Metropolitan Isaiah, the Presiding Bishop of Denver, when he served as the Bishop-Chancellor in New York.

Commenting on these developments, the Archbishop said:  "These dreams have been in the minds of many for a long time. I was very gratified indeed to learn that Father Robert has served for many years in anticipation of such a development. Under the coordination of Father Robert, I feel we will be more than equal to the task of expanding the ministry of the Cathedral throughout our city, and provide a leadership model for others to follow. I also look forward to the clergy of the metropolitan area participating in this unique opportunity to bring these new initiatives to fruition."

[ Orthodox Observer - February 5, 1999 - p. 4 ]