2015 CLERGY-LAITY-PHILOPTOCHOS ASSEMBLY PROGRAM MATERIALS AGENDA/SCHEDULE REPORTS

Transcription

1 2015 CLERGY-LAITY-PHILOPTOCHOS ASSEMBLY PROGRAM MATERIALS AGENDA/SCHEDULE REPORTS

2 2015 CLERGY-LAITY-PHILOPTOCHOS ASSEMBLY AGENDA

3 Revised 11/10/2015 9:00 PM Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ. - JOHN 1:17 - Metropolis of Chicago Clergy/Laity Philoptochos Assembly & Archons and Philoptochos Retreats 2015 The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor s Club November 14-18, 2015 OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2015 Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Residing in the Metropolis of Chicago Retreat Guest Speaker: Frederick W. Krueger Metropolis Philoptochos Retreat Guest Speaker: Peli Galiti Joint Meeting of Philoptochos and Archons Great Vesper Service Evening Event: A Reception at the Madison Children's Museum Dinner on your own SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2015 Hierarchical Orthros and Divine Liturgy The Assumption Church, Madison, WI Reception to follow the Celebration of the Divine Liturgy Philoptochos Board Meeting Dinner on your own Clergy Syndesmos Meeting Clergy, Presidents, and Treasurers Meeting Mandatory

4 Monday, November 16, 2015 Archon Breakfast Assembly Continental Breakfast Opening Worship Welcome Address by His Eminence, Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago Official Opening ADDRESS CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS OF THE MIDDLE EAST Offered by Bassel Korkor ASSEMBLY WORKSHOPS (EACH ATTENDEE IS TO CHOOSE ONE) 1) Orthodox Management Software for Parishes Effie Marie Smith 2) What is Hospice: Understanding End of Life Care Colleen Alexander, Angels Grace Hospice 3) Contemporary Martyrs of Egypt Jan Bassali, St. Paul Coptic Orthodox Church 4) Drugs, Addictions and Crime Breaking the Cycle LUNCHEON Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC) LUNCHEON PRESENTATION BY RYAN AND FRIENDS CLERGY/LAITY BUSINESS MEETING PHILOPTOCHOS BUSINESS MEETING Great Vesper Services The Madison Concourse Hotel And Governor s Club Presided By: His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago Dinner The Madison Concourse Hotel And Governor s Club Clergy/Laity Business Meeting Philoptochos Business Meeting Presbyteres Tea Paraklesis Service SPECIAL PLENARY SESSION FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS Martha & Mary House - Affirming the Choice of Life Offered by Laura J. K. Paulus Dinner The Madison Concourse Hotel Clergy/Laity Business Meeting Philoptochos Business Meeting

5 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 Assembly Continental Breakfast Morning Prayer Service Homily offered by Rev. Fr. George Pyle Personal Reflections Why I Left and Turned Back to The Church Offered by Nick Xamis, St. Anthony Church, Springfield, IL Offered by Calli Kelly, Holy Anargyroi Church, Rochester, MN SPECIAL PLENARY SESSION Countering Targeted Violence Against Communities: Servicing & Empowering Safe Communities from Within Offered by: Cook County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management LUNCHEON ASSEMBLY WORKSHOPS (EACH ATTENDEE IS TO CHOOSE ONE) 1) Ministering to Those with Special Needs Presbytera Toni Mihalopoulos 2) Welcoming back the Incarcerated Manny Mill, Executive Director Koinonia House 3) Cosmic Salvation: Stewards of the Environment Frederick W. Krueger, Director Orthodox Fellowship of the Transfiguration 4) Outreach, Evangelism and the Media John Ackerman LUNCHEON PRESENTATION ON HELLENIC COLLEGE/HOLY CROSS SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Clergy/Laity Business Meeting Philoptochos Business Meeting Paraklesis Service Assembly Social Hour Reception The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor s Club Grand Banquet The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor s Club

6 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2015 Farewell Brunch/Closing Business Meeting Adjournment

7 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, Metropolis of Chicago Clergy /Laity/Philoptochos Assembly TIME LOCATION/NOTES Assembly Registration Opens Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Retreat Metropolis Philoptochos Retreat Joint Meeting of Philoptochos and Archons Great Vesper Service Evening Event: A Reception at the Madison Children's Museum 12 Noon 6:00 PM 2:00 PM 4:00 PM 2:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 5:45 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM Capitol A and B Lobby, The Madison Concourse Hotel Capitol A Capitol B Capitol A Assembly Room (Chapel), The Madison Concourse Hotel Capitol Square, 1 Block from Hotel. Concourse shuttle available on request SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2015 Required bus transportation provided 8:45 AM See Note 9:00 AM Hierarchical Orthros & Divine Liturgy Recption to follow Liturgy Required return bus transportation provided 1:30 PM See Note Assembly Registration continues 3:00 PM 9:00 PM Philoptochos Board Meeting Dinner on your own 3:00 PM Clergy/Presidents/Treasurers Mandatory Meeting 8:00 PM 9:30 PM Archdiocesan Allocations Procedural Review St. Iakovos Retreat Center Request Clergy Syndesmos Meeting 9:30 PM Transportation continues every 30 minutes until 10:15 AM Assumption Church, Madison, WI Assumption Church, Madison, WI Transportation continues every 30 minutes until 2:30 PM Second Floor Foyer Capitol B Capitol A Capitol A MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015 Archon Breakfast Assembly Registration Assembly Continental Breakfast Opening Worship Official Opening CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS OF THE MIDDLE EAST 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 7:00 AM 5:00 PM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM PDR First Floor Second Floor Foyer Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Address offered by Bassel Korkor

8 2015 Metropolis of Chicago Clergy /Laity/Philoptochos Assembly ASSEMBLY WORKSHOPS 11:15 AM 12:30 PM Orthodox Management Software for Parishes What is Hospice: Understanding End of Life Care Modern Coptic Christian Martyrs Drugs, Addictions and Crime Breaking the Cycle LUNCHEON 12:45 PM 1:45 PM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Special Presentation Ryan and Friends 1:45 PM 2:30 PM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Clergy/Laity Business Meeting 2:45 PM 4:45 PM Capitol A Philoptochos Business Meeting 2:45 PM 4:45 PM Capitol B Presbyteres Tea 3:00 PM 4:45 PM Suite 627 Paraklesis Service 5:00 PM 6:00 PM Assembly Room (Chapel), The Madison Concourse Hotel SPECIAL PLENARY SESSION FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS Martha & Mary House - Affirming The Choice of Life 6:15 PM until 7:00 PM, Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Dinner The Madison Concourse Hotel 7:15 PM 8:30 PM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Clergy/Laity Business Meeting 8:45 PM Open Capitol A Philoptochos Business Meeting 8:45 PM Open Capitol B TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 EACH ATTENDEE IS TO CHOOSE ONE University C/D Senate A University A/B Senate B Continental Breakfast 8:00 AM 9:00 AM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Morning Prayer Service 9:00 AM 9:45 AM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Homily offered by Rev. Fr. George Pyle Why I Left and Turned Back to The Church Personal Reflection Offered by Nick Xamis Personal Reflection Offered by Calli Kelly SPECIAL PLENARY SESSION FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS by the Cook County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management "Countering Targeted Violence Against Communities: Servicing & Empowering Safe Communities from Within" ASSEMBLY WORKSHOPS 11:30 AM 12:45 PM EACH ATTENDEE IS TO CHOOSE ONE Ministering to Those with Special Needs University A/B Welcoming back the Incarcerated University C/D Cosmic Salvation: Stewards of the Environment Senate A Outreach, Evangelism and the Media Senate B LUNCHEON 1:00 PM 2:00 PM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms

9 Luncheon Presentation on Hellenic College/Holy Cross School Clergy/Laity Business Meeting Philoptochos Business Meeting Paraklesis Service Assembly Social Hour Reception Grand Banquet 2015 Metropolis of Chicago Clergy /Laity/Philoptochos Assembly 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 2:45 PM 4:45 PM 2:45 PM 4:45 PM 5:30 PM 6:30 PM 6:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM Capitol A Capitol B Assembly Room (Chapel) Madison/Wisconsin Rooms Madison/Wisconsin Rooms WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 Farewell Brunch/Closing Business Meeting Adjournment 9:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Madison/Wisconsin Rooms

10 REPORTS Archon Reports (6) Clergy-Laity-Philoptochos Report 2015 Clergy-Laity PYUC Write Up 2015 Junior Olympics Financials Metropolis Clergy-Laity Report 2015 Madison, WI Minutes: Assembly 2013 Minutes: Priests and Presidents Meeting 2013 Minutes: Meeting of the Metropolis of Chicago Council 2013 NIKA House 2015 Report SIRC Clergy-Laity Report 2015 SIRC Board of Directors Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries Report 2015 CLERGY-LAITY-PHILOPTOCHOS ASSEMBLY

11 ARCHON RETREAT CLERGY LAITY, MADISON, WI SATURDAY NOVEMBER 14, Parish Symposiums-presentation 5 Key Issues, Awareness Program; 2. Create Archon Corner for quarterly parish publications. Archon Tom Kanelos first publication; 3. Archon Exhibit (Traveling) at National Hellenic Museum; 4. Planning of future Archon Gatherings, St. Iakovos Retreat Center, etc; 5. Review of Metropolis of Chicago - Archon Account; 6. John C. Kulis Foundation Matching Grant Program and Donation 7. Old Business; 8. New Business

12 As Archons, one of the most important roles we can play is in creating AWARENESS. It is amazing as to how many of the faithful are unaware of the ongoing issues facing our Holy and Great Mother Church. We, as Archons, have the duty to promote and defend the Patriarchate; accordingly, one way is through informative publications. Following is an outstanding article written by Archon Tom Kanelos, Metropolis of Chicago. Our hope is to have the ability to dessimenate Archon Tom s article to all of our local Metropolis Church Parishes for inclusion into their respective monthly bullinets for their congragations to read. We thank Archon Tom for his valuable and informative article presenation! If you, as an Archon, are interested in authoring an article on the religious freedom issue facing our Patriarchate, please contact one of your Metropolis Regional Commanders. We hope you enjoy the article. With Service in His Name, Gus M. Pablecas & John G. Manos

13 ARCHON CORNER Tuesday, May 29, 1453, a day that all true lovers of history know well. After a siege of more than 6 weeks the Queen City, Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks. We can only imagine the end recalling the words of the great Historian Sir Steven Runcimen. We remember the stories of the last Christian Emperor, standing in the breach of the wall, abandon by his Western allies, holding the infidel at bay until their numbers over powered him and he died, with the empire as his winding sheet. For nearly 500 hundred years, the Christians of Constantinople and the surrounding areas, lived as second class subjects with periods of general calm interspersed with periods violent pogroms. The Church, as the body responsible for the political as well as spiritual jurisdiction over the Christian subjects, also vacillated between times of peaceful coexistence along with times of persecution. From the period of 1453 through 1922, there were 103 Ecumenical Patriarchal reigns, averaging less than 5 years each. An indication the interference of the Ottoman Government into the administration of the Church. Nevertheless, with notable exceptions, the Christians subjects were allowed their properties and their customs and most importantly their Churches and their practice of the Faith. Let s move forward to the era of the First World War. Traditional empires were coming apart as the world entered the 2oth century and the Ottoman Empire was no exception. War, decay and corruption had cause great unrest among the Turkish subject and animosity against the Government. The defeat of the Central Powers, the brief war with Greece culminating with the Asia Minor Catastrophe and the expulsion of Greeks from Smyrna in 1922 signaled a new era in the treatment of the Christian Orthodox citizens of the new secular Republic of Turkey. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and his Nationalist Movement succeeded in taking control and he became the first President of Modern Turkey. Treaty of Lausanne settled the conflict between the Ottoman Empire and the Allied Forces. This treaty of 1923 was incorporated into the new Turkish Constitution and guaranteed freedom of religious expression and believe for the religious minorities in Turkey. However, in practicality, this has not been the case. According to scholarly and legal research and documentation by the Order of St. Andrew, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, in a report given at the Second International Conference on Religious Freedom, held in Berlin in 2013, the Turkish government has violated its own Constitution as well as the Treat of Lausanne in the following ways:

14 1. Government Interference in Patriarchal Elections. The Turkish government requires eligible candidates to be Turkish Citizens and reserves the right to veto any Candidate. It is widely believed that our own Archbishop Iakovos, of blessed memory, was vetoed by the Turkish government in Non-Recognition of Ecumenical status. While the rest of the world understands and respect the Ecumenical Patriarch as the Spiritual Leader of Work Orthodoxy, the Turkish government only recognizes His All Holiness as the local bishop of the Turkish Orthodox Citizens. 3. No legal entity. The Ecumenical Patriarchate has no legal standing and cannot even own property in Turkey. Likewise, the government will not authorize work permits to individuals from foreign nation who work at the Ecumenical Patriarchate. 4. Closing of Seminary and inability to train new clergy. With the closing of Halki Theological School in 1971, the Patriarchate must send its local persons wishing to study for the priesthood to foreign Theological seminaries. In many cases they do not return due to the difficulty in obtaining work permits. 5. Confiscation of Property. Since 1922, thousands of properties belonging to the Ecumenical Patriarchate have been confiscated and the Patriarchate must engage in costly legal actions to try to regain its rightful properties. The persecution, as you can see, remains to this day. The Turkish Authorities are effectively forcing the population to leave. In 1955, there was an outright stack on Christian owned businesses and took the lives of their owners. This caused many to leave and a population of nearly 500,000 in 1900 has dwindled to 2000 today. What can we do? First of all, it is our responsibility to know these things are happening. We must know how we arrived at this situation. The Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate are charged to defend and promote our Holy and Great Mother Church. Creating awareness among the faithful is paramount and please know that your Archons are working diligently to combat the challenges that threatens our very Orthodox existence. Thomas N. Kanelos Archon Depoutatos Metropolis of Chicago

15 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 ADDENDUM TO THE 2014 PATRIARCHAL PROPERTIES COMMITTEE REPORT (Attached) Submitted & Prepared by: Hon. B. Theodore Bozonelis, Archon Ekdikos Chairman, Patriarchal Properties Committee The Results of the June 7, 2015 Election Following the submission of the 2014 Annual Report of the Patriarchal Properties Committee, reprinted hereto, Turkey s President Erdogan and Prime Minister Davutoglu, ahead of National Elections, sought support for their Justice and Development Party (AKP) to obtain an increased majority in Parliament to establish a new Constitution placing political power in the office of the President. An AKP supermajority would ensure control by President Erdogan. On June 7, 2015, all 550 members of Turkey s Parliament, the Grand National Assembly, stood for election. The results were disappointing for the AKP and initially thwarted President Erdogan s plans for consolidated political power in the Presidency under a new Constitution. The Four Parties The AKP, a religious conservative party, lost its majority of 327 seats, down 69 seats to 258, which ended its 13 year majority rule and resulted in the need to form a coalition government among all parties. Absent the ability to form a coalition by August 23, 2015, new elections would be called. The AKP had advocated the conversion of Hagia Sophia to a Mosque and sought to impose a religious Sunni Muslim conservative agenda in Turkish schools. Accordingly, its loss of support in the election was seen as a positive development for the cause of

16 religious freedom issues. That development is reflected in the fact that the Republican Peoples Party (CHP), a center-left social democratic party, obtained 132 seats and, for the first time, the Peoples Democratic Party (HDP), the Kurdish minority and liberal minority rights thinkers, took 80 seats to pass a 10% of the vote threshold for parliament seats. With a combined 212 seats, the CHP and HDP were seen as the major victors in the election advocating minority rights, preventing AKP control, and sidelining President Erdogan s plans. Also, for the first time, four Christian Minority candidates were elected to Parliament, three Armenians and one Syriac. However, in a counterbalance, political analysts also observed at the time that the National Movement Party (MHP), an ultra-nationalist party, which also held 80 seats as a result of the election, could join with the AKP to form a conservative right coalition government with a combined 338 seat majority which would not press for minority rights. The Failure To Achieve A Coalition During the period from the June 7 election to the August 23, 2015 deadline to form a coalition government, negotiations between the political parties occurred but without a successful compromise for a coalition government. The AKP, as the controlling party, and the CHP, as the leading opposition party to the AKP, were unable to reach an accord. Also, the MHP ultra-nationalists, joined by the CHP, would not agree to a short-term coalition proposed by the AKP. Further, and significant to the failure to establish a coalition government, the CHP and HDP, the center left and liberal proponents, had refused to meet with President Erdogan at the new Presidential Palace in Ankara. The Effect of the President s Palace The presidential complex, known as Ak Saray (the White Palace), consists of a 1150 room Palace and a surrounding complex which President Erdogan made the official residence of the Presidency. Its construction was highly controversial for its size and cost. Turkish officials had ordered that its construction be suspended and later that it violated the law, but the orders have been ignored. The CHP and HDP opposed the Palace as illegal, unwilling to enter the same. As a result, President Erdogan refused to allow the CHP a mandate to lead coalition talks. Under Turkey s Constitution, President Erdogan was obligated to have the CHP, as the second placed party, lead coalition negotiations but the mandate was ignored, the August 23, 2015 deadline passed, and President Erdogan has called for snap elections on November 1, Political analysts have theorized that this was always the objective of President Erdogan in the hope that the AKP can regain its majority in a new election and push forward a new Constitution with the power in the Presidency. In response, the CHP has rejected and will not take part in an

17 interim government which is being led by Prime Minister Davutoglu pending the November elections. The Complications: ISIS and The PKK Complicating the failure to establish a coalition government for the first time in Turkey s history, and contributing to this failure, are two overriding factors. First, political turmoil and instability has been caused by the threat of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) along Turkey s borders with these countries. The slaughter and persecution of Christians, most of whom are Orthodox, by ISIS has been horrific, together with the annihilation by ISIS of ancient and sacred sites. The destructive path of ISIS has also spread to Turkey in clashes with Turkish troops on Turkey s borders with Syria. In response, Turkey has joined the fight against ISIS leading in July, 2015 to an agreement with the United States to open Turkish airbases for the United States to use against ISIS in Iraq and Syria and for the United States and Turkey to create a safety zone along its border with Syria. Second, at this same time period of July, 2015, while agreeing to fight ISIS, Turkey has also determined to fight the rebel militant Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which Turkey and the United States have branded as a terrorist organization. The PKK is based in Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan and has been fighting for Kurdish self-determination since Violence has occurred between the PKK and Turkey over the years resulting in a ceasefire in However, the ceasefire collapsed in July, 2015 after renewed clashes in southeastern Turkey. The difficulty for Turkey and the United States is that the PKK has also been instrumental in engaging ISIS forces in Syria and Iraq. The PKK, as it fights ISIS, has accused Turkey of only fighting ISIS as a pretext to attack the PKK. The argument is that the goal, pursued by President Erdogan, is to equate the PKK with the pro-kurdish Peoples Democratic Party, the liberal thinkers (HDP), to undercut the HDP in the November 1, 2015 election for President Erdogan to once again achieve an AKP majority. President Erdogan and the AKP have dismissed such allegations. Yet, with Turkey maintaining war on two fronts ISIS and the PKK and the United States using Turkish airbases, the political outcome of the November 1, 2015 election remains volatile, uncertain and may lead to renewed coalition efforts. These issues are further compounded by the fact that the war has also left Turkey with a severe Syrian refugee management crisis. According to United Nation estimates, Turkey s Syrian refugee population was more than 1.7 million as of Mid-March, 2015 and has grown to 2 million to date.

18 Conclusion In the midst of this political turmoil, military action and refugee crisis, and in response to the brutal aggression of ISIS, His All-Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, remains steadfast as the spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians. His message is one of clarity, peace and prayer for an end to Christian Persecution, for the protection of religious freedom to all Faiths, and for the enforcement of minority rights in Turkey. The changing events in Turkey do show some positive signs, but yet unfulfilled results, for combating Christian Persecution, enforcing religious freedom and protecting minority rights as follows: (1) The CHP, as a center-left social democratic party, and the HDP, as a pro- Kurdish minority and minority rights liberal party, now control 212/550 Parliament seats. Political analysts have observed that the called November 1, 2015 election is unlikely to significantly reduce their seats and/or influence. These two parties will advocate more liberal freedoms and provide a counterbalance to the AKP, as a Sunni Muslim religious conservative party, and the MHP, as a ultra-nationalist party, which control 338/550 Parliament seats. Even if the AKP obtains a majority in the November election, the speculation is that any additional seats gained are unlikely to reach a two-thirds threshold supermajority to be enough to change the Constitution to place political power in the Presidency and legislate a religious conservative agenda. (2) The election of four Christian minority members to Parliament provide a presence and voice for minority rights. One is an Armenian journalist (AKP) from Istanbul. Another is an Armenian attorney (CHP) from Istanbul. Two are affiliated with (HDP), an Armenian election board trainer from Istanbul and a Syriac lawyer from the Mardin area in southeastern Turkey. (3) Turkey joining the fight against ISIS, apart from its political motives, allowing the United States to use Turkish airbases, and accepting refugees, evidences its opposition to the brutality of ISIS, aligns Turkey with its Western allies, and in seeking to stop ISIS at its borders, to some degree, protects the National Interests for all Turkish citizens, including Christian minorities. (4) A new middle and high school for the minority Greek Community in the Island of Imbros (Gokceada in Turkish) supported by the Ecumenical Patriarchate, opens for the first time since the 1960 s. This follows the Primary School which opened in 2013, 49 years after it was forced closed due to Turkey s policies that discriminated against minorities.

19 Despite these positive signs, the issues and analysis set forth in the 2014 Annual Report, reprinted hereto, remain without substantial changes as Turkey awaits the outcome of the November elections and legislation to come. As summarized in the 2014 Annual Report: Yet, despite this world-wide recognition of the status of His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and despite His being a Turkish citizen and having served His country honorably in the Turkish military, the Turkish government will not officially recognize His status as the Ecumenical worldwide spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians. It will give no legal status to His Ecumenical Patriarchate. It will not allow the complete freedom for the election of His successor as Ecumenical Patriarch. It will not allow the training of His clergy and the opening of the Halki Seminary. It will not allow the return of all Greek Orthodox confiscated properties He needs to oversee without restrictions. His religious freedom remains compromised although the history of His country is tied to the historical doctrines and origins of Christianity. The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle will continue to monitor these issues and the November election results as we seek to preserve and protect the Ecumenical Patriarchate and ensure religious freedom to all Faiths.

20 2014 ANNUAL REPORT 2014 PATRIARCHAL PROPERTIES COMMITTEE REPORT Submitted and Prepared by: Hon. B. Theodore Bozonelis Archon Ekdikos Chairman, Patriarchal Properties Committee This report focuses on Protecting Christian Heritage in Turkey through the protection, return and restoration of confiscated Christian properties and related issues. The overriding factor affecting these issues begins and ends with the lack of a legal status for Christian religious communities in Turkey. The Five Issues The deprivation of this fundamental right is one of the five major religious freedom violations identified by the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle pertaining to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Without question, the lack of a legal status directly impacts and forms the basis for the Order s four other identified major religious freedom violations by the Turkish Government: (1) interfering in the election of the Ecumenical Patriarch by requiring Turkish citizenship and controlling by veto any candidate for the position, (2) failing to recognize the Ecumenical status of the Patriarch and Patriarchate as the world-wide spiritual leader and Holy Center of Orthodox Christianity (3) forcibly closing down the Theological School of Halki creating the inability to train new clergy, and (4) confiscating thousands of Orthodox Christian related properties. Turkey s Human Rights Obligations Turkey is a country of geo-strategic importance located in two continents at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is a member of the United Nations, Council of Europe, NATO, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and in 2005 began formal accession negotiations to join the European Union. Accordingly, its relationship with the United States remains a priority in our

21 country s foreign policy and ensuring our country s fundamental rights as freedom of religion is a matter which Turkey and our country should embrace together as partners in member organizations. Moreover, by virtue of its membership in all these organizations, Turkey has taken on binding obligations to protect the rights of religious minorities. As a participating State in OSCE, Turkey has obligations under Article VII of the Helsinki Accords to guarantee and protect the rights of national minorities. The Concluding Document of the 1989 Vienna Meeting of the organization requires participating states to protect the rights of religious communities. As a member of the Council of Europe, Turkey has ratified the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. Article 9 of the Convention requires Turkey as a member state to protect freedom of religion, including the right to manifest religion in worship, teaching, practice, and observance, subject only to limitations as necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of the public order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. Yet, despite these obligations, major restrictions on freedom of religion in Turkey continue to persist. The system of Minority (Community) Foundations and The Treaty of Lausanne Turkey s participation in the European Union accession process has provided an impetus for some signs of progress in religious freedom and minority rights under the above obligations as explained below, but the underlying principles basic to religious freedom values are not allowed. As stated, non-muslim religious minorities do not have a legal status (a legal personality ) in Turkey to acquire and enjoy property rights in their own names. Rather, Turkey as a secular State, has established a system of minority (community) foundations for non-muslim religious minorities to hold property supervised and controlled by the Turkish government s General Directorate of Foundations. The system of foundations was established with the formation of the Turkish Republic under the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923 and, at that time, Turkey principally recognized three non- Muslim religious minorities: Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic Patriarchates, and Jewish Chief Rabbinate. Foundation law had its roots in earlier Ottoman Empire decrees and administrative reforms where these non-muslim religious minorities were referred to as pious deed corporations. Through the foundation system, restrictions on religious freedom existed even though the intent of the Treaty of Lausanne was to grant these religious minorities equal rights. Articles 40 and 42, Paragraph 3, of the Treaty related to minority

22 foundations and granted Turkish nationals belonging to non-muslim minorities equal rights to exercise their own religion freely. The Turkish government was to grant full protection to religious establishments of non-muslim minorities. All facilities and authorization will be granted to the pious foundations, and to the religious and charitable institutions of the said minorities at present existing in Turkey, and the Turkish Government will not refuse, for the formation of new religious and charitable institutions, any necessary facilities which are guaranteed to other private institutions of that nature. (Article 42, para. 3). However, with the systematic seizure of non-muslim minorities properties by the Turkish government in the years that followed, the provisions of the Treaty were essentially disregarded. Being Turkish and Muslim became the new nationalism at the expense of non-muslim religious minorities resulting in discrimination and the confiscation of properties. The Diyanet and the Laws on Religious Foundations While Muslim religious communities, as the Alevi Muslims minority representing up to 25% of the Turkish population, also lack a legal personality, the majority religion, being Sunni Muslim, is treated in a far different manner. For all practical purposes Sunni Muslims have a legal status exercised through The Diyanet or Directorate ( Presidency ) of Religious Affairs, which being all Sunni Muslim, reports to the Prime Minister and exerts a large influence on the extent to which freedom of religion is enjoyed in Turkey. Only the Diyanet administers Mosques which must all be Sunni and administers some 600 mid-level clergy training schools. Only the Diyanet receives substantial financial support, in billions of dollars, for its activities from the Turkish Government. Without any such financial support combined with the lack of a legal status, non-muslim religious minorities, and the Alevi Muslim minority, have difficulty in exercising religious freedom. Indeed, Alevi Muslim s houses of worship are not recognized by the Turkish government and all religious minorities have no open clergy training facilities. A 1935 Law on Religious Foundations, and the subsequent 1936 Decree, required all foundations, Muslim and non-muslim alike, to declare their properties by registering the same with the General Directorate of Foundations which oversees minority foundations. By the 1960 s, with tensions rising between Greece and Turkey over Cyprus, the declared properties list was used to seize properties of non-muslim religious minority foundations. Although the minority foundations had declared their properties by 1936, many were not officially registered by the government and accordingly seized. Thereafter, in 1974, at the time of the Cyprus

23 crisis, Turkey s highest court ruled that non-muslim religious minorities were foreigners and could not obtain real property. Properties were limited to those declared in 1936 and that properties purchased or donated after that date were considered to be acquired illegally resulting in the confiscation of all such properties. Since the time of the Cyprus crisis, and with Turkey seeking to join the European Union, some limited progress has developed to solve the problems of non-muslim religious minority foundations. The 1935 law on Religious Foundations has been amended in 2002, 2003 and 2008 to allow religious minority foundations, with restrictions, to acquire property and apply for the return of confiscated properties. The 2002 amendment allowed minority foundations to acquire real property with the permission of the government based on need. The 2003 amendment allowed for the acquisition of properties with only the approval of the General Directorate of Foundations and listed 162 authorized minority foundations. The 2008 amendment provided for a limited return of seized property by application, but with no mention of just compensation or third party ownership issues. Despite these amendments, little progress was made, the vast majority of applications denied, and the goals for the return of confiscated properties were not attained. The August 27, 2011 Decree Within this historical context, as a positive development, Turkey s Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, announced by Decree on August 27, 2011 (not parliamentary law) that the162 minority foundations may apply to regain religious property declared and registered in 1936 and confiscated from them by the State or seek compensation. The Decree also provided for the formation of new religious community foundations as a corrective measure in the 1936 registration of properties law. Applications to regain property generally had to be made within 12 months by August 27, 2012 and regulations for implementation were adopted October 1, Of the 162 recognized minority foundations, over 70 are Greek Orthodox which claimed over 1000 properties in issue since the 2008 applications. However, as of July of last year, only 16% of all minority foundation applications, Greek Orthodox and others, received a positive response. That number has risen to approximately 25% or over 300 properties returned as of this date. Yet, it is not the number of properties returned that matters but the quality of properties returned. For example, an important and symbolic return of property has been the decision of the Council of Foundations, a part of the General Directorate of Foundations, to return 190 hectares (470 acres) of forestland to the Aya Triada Monastery Foundation of the Halki Seminary. However, the vast majority of well over 1000

24 applications were rejected or still have received no assessment and the Halki Seminary itself, despite its gain of forestland, remains closed. In addition, the Decree is narrow in its scope. It does not cover property that was not declared by minority foundations under the 1936 law or property that was nationalized by the State. It also does not cover the seizure of properties from religious institutions that do not have foundations. For example, property that once belonged to the Catholic or Anglican churches is not covered. These churches have neither a minority foundation nor like all religious minorities independent legal status. Most important, it does not address the properties of government seized minority foundations which the government took over because of its claim of lack of foundation board elections or charitable purposes. Further, under the Decree, the determination of compensation, when in issue, is not made by an independent body bur rather through the government. Election of Minority Foundation Board Members For the properties returned, an overriding issue remains that election of foundation board members, none of whom may be clergy, has been delayed by the Turkish government. This delay creates a troubling concern as to how returned properties will ever be effectively managed. The attrition of the religious minorities population, especially in the Greek Orthodox community, without election of Board members, in practice means that returned properties cannot be sustained by minority foundations. This issue is of such importance that the duly elected minority representative to the General Directorate of Foundations, Laki Vingas, resigned in protest, but has since returned to his position on the government s promise that the issue of elections will be vetted. Foundation elections, however, still have not been authorized to date. European Court of Human Rights and the Issue of a Legal Status With the history of enforcement of religious freedom provisions for non- Muslin minorities under the Treaty of Lausanne and Turkish law being restrictive and tied to geo-political concerns, resort to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has been an alternative avenue to pursue non-muslim religious minority rights in Turkey. For example, after extensive litigation, the Ecumenical Patriarchate obtained a ECHR Judgment in 2008 for the return of the Prinkipos (Buyukada) Orphanage Building, which to Turkey s credit, has been implemented and accepted by the Turkish Courts. The Judgment produced in November 2010 a deed title for the property in the name of : Rum Patrikhanesi (Patriarchate of the Roman Greeks), the official name for the Ecumenical Patriarchate used by the Government of Turkey.

25 This is an important development. Even though Turkey does not recognize a legal status for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the deed title as issued and accepted by the Turkish Courts in the name of Rum Patrikhanesi creates a de facto legal status. It establishes a legal argument to further the cause of obtaining official recognition of a legal personality for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and all religious minorities. Also, in March 2011, Turkey implemented a ECHR Judgment of March 2009 which returned property rights to the Greek Orthodox minority foundation (Kimisis Theodokou Greek Orthodox Church) in the island of Tenedos (Bozcaada). Further, a significant ECHR case was settled in 2013 whereby the General Directorate of Foundations returned the historic former Ayia Foka Greek Elementary School building in Istanbul to the foundation despite the fact that it was utilized as the offices of the government's European Union Ministry. Halki and the Reciprocity Issue Turkey s acceptance of these ECHR judgments raised the hope that the Halki Seminary would be reopened. On September 30, 2013, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the government s reform or democratization package. It contained electoral reforms and abolished the headscarf ban for the personnel of public institutions with the exception of armed and security forces and members of the judiciary. The opening of Halki was originally included in the package. However, it was removed at the last moment and proved to be a major disappointment to non-muslim religious minorities. The Turkish government has also utilized Article 45 of the Treaty of Lausanne, the so-called reciprocity clause, to justify the continued closure of the Halki Seminary. It reads: the rights conferred by the provisions of the present Section on the non-muslim minorities of Turkey will be similarly conferred by Greece on the Muslim minority in her territory. Turkish authorities argue, for example, that a Mosque must open in Athens in exchange for Halki Seminary to open. The argument has no merit as it was never meant to apply to a state s own citizens. Moreover, under modern international law, human rights take precedence over any agreements of reciprocity between states. Neither Turkey nor Greece can deny that its own citizens should be treated equally as to basic and fundamental rights. Constitutional Reform Turkey s recent efforts to draft a new Constitution also raised the hope of all minorities for religious freedom and equality as citizens of the country. On February 20, 2012, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was invited by the Speaker

26 of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to appear before the Inter-Party Committee for the drafting of a new Constitution. In His appearance, His All Holiness discussed religious freedom issues and presented an 18 page document prepared by all minorities emphasizing the need for religious freedom, religious education and equality. However, under the proposed Constitution draft section entitled Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, political parties disagreed and could not come to a consensus on the definition of citizenship, the right to freedom of religion, equality and religious education. For example, the main opposition Republican People s Party (CHP) proposed the inclusion of a statement that the State would take into account the religious pluralism in society in its governance on religion. The ruling and majority Justice and Development Party (AKP) opposed such language. The AKP and CHP could also not agree on the continuation of compulsory secondary school Religious Culture and Knowledge of Ethics (RCKE) courses which instruct pupils in Sunni Islam and is supported by the AKP majority. For these reasons, and other political disagreements, the Constitutional Reconciliation Commission which was to draft the new Constitution ceased functioning in November 2013, and without such agreement on educating Turkish youth on religious diversity, a cycle of inequality for religious minorities continues to perpetuate itself. The Protests and the Parallel State Complicating the failure of the Constitution drafting process has been the Gezi Park protests in Istanbul which began in May-June 2013 over the Park s proposed development, but evolved into broader protests for protection of human rights. Further, claims of political corruption has led the AKP majority to blame a parallel state which the AKP alleges is controlled by Fethullah Gulen, an influential Iman based in the United States. The AKP asserts that Gulen is seeking to topple the government and that Gulenists" have established a presence in the police and judiciary. As a result, the government removed thousands of prosecutors, judges and police officers and enacted laws for oversight of the judiciary and internet. Allegations of corruption in recorded political telephone conversations which became public led Prime Minister Erdogan to enforce internet bans of Twitter and You Tube in March In response, Turkey s Constitutional Court has ruled that the bans were unconstitutional and lifted the blockade. Despite this political turmoil, Mr. Erdogan remains popular. Barred by party rules from running as prime minister for another term, on July 1, 2014, he announced that he would run in Turkey s first direct popular ballot presidential election on August 10, He won that election and was sworn in as President on August 27, The next day, on August 28, 2014, Ahmet Davutaglu, a loyal ally of Mr. Erdogan,

27 was sworn in as prime minister. As President, Mr. Erdogan will continue to be the powerful leader of the Turkish government amid the past year s political unrest. All 550 members of Turkey s parliament, the Grand National Assembly, will run for election on June 13, If the AKP party obtains a majority in the Assembly, political analysts have observed that the AKP may seek to change Turkey s political system to place the power in the office of President rather than in the office of the prime minister. Christian Heritage and Hagia Sophia The issue for the non-muslim and Alevi Mulsim religious minorities is whether these events will limit or change any attempt to implement progress for protections of religious freedom and equality or whether now President Erdogan will take the lead to guarantee such protections. This is the issue that His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and all other religious minority leaders, face daily in Turkey. A troubling sign in this regard is that the protection of Christian Heritage has continued to diminish during this time. Important and historical Orthodox Churches which functioned as museums and drew Christian tourists have recently been converted into Mosques and lost their identity. One such case is Hagia Sophia of Nicaea, in present day Iznik, which served as such a museum and an important destination for Christian tourists. Nicaea is where bishops from all over the Roman Empire gathered in 325 A.D. at the First Ecumenical Council to formulate the Christian Nicaean Creed. Hagia Sophia of Nicaea was built in 550 A.D. fashioned after the Great Church of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. At Hagia Sophia of Nicaea the Seventh and last Ecumenical Council took place in 787 A.D. to denounce iconoclasm and open the world to Christian religious art. Yet, in , the Church is no longer a museum and has been converted by the government into a Mosque. In May, 2014, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom released a statement on a bill introduced in Turkey s parliament that would change the status of the historic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul from a museum to a Mosque. The Commission stated Whether driven by political considerations tied to Turkey s forthcoming elections, or for any other reason, opening Hagia Sophia as a mosque would clearly be a divisive and provocative move. It would send the message that the current government sees the sensitivities of Turkey s religious minority communities, particularly its ancient Christian community, as being of little or no consequence.

28 His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew On May 25-26, 2014, His Holiness Pope Francis as the world-wide spiritual leader of all Roman Catholic Christians and His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew as the world-wide spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians held a historic meeting for a dialogue of unity in Jerusalem to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the legacy of unity discussions held there by their predecessors, Pope Paul VI and Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras. As global heads of the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, the two largest Christian Churches, they signed a Joint Declaration affirming their commitment to seek unity and expressed their profound concern for the persecution of Christians in the Middle East. This was a world event extensively covered by the press and meetings also occurred with the two religious leaders and the heads of State of Israel and the Palestinian Authorities. Thereafter, Israeli President Shimon Peres and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met in Rome on June 8, 2014 with Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to pray for peace. Yet, despite this world-wide recognition of the status of His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and despite His being a Turkish citizen and having served His country honorably in the Turkish military, the Turkish government will not officially recognize His status as the Ecumenical worldwide spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians. It will give no legal status to His Ecumenical Patriarchate. It will not allow the complete freedom for the election of His successor as Ecumenical Patriarch. It will not allow the training of His clergy and the opening of the Halki Seminary. It will not allow the return of all Greek Orthodox confiscated properties He needs to oversee without restrictions. His religious freedom remains compromised although the history of His country is tied to the historical doctrines and origins of Christianity. The hope is that Turkey will determine, as its laws and political parties progress, to embrace the historical roots of Christian heritage in its lands and embrace His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and all minority religious leaders, for their accomplishments and moral characters as Turkish citizens. All religious minorities look toward this positive solution.. However, until meaningful change occurs, the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, through all Archons, must remain vigilant to protect and preserve the Ecumenical Patriarchate and to promote religious freedom and human rights for all religious minorities in Turkey.

29 ARCHONS OF THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE Metropolis of Chicago One of the leading authorities on the religious freedom issues facing our Patriarchate is The Hon B. Theodore Bozonelis, Archon Ekdikos. The Judge has provided a written report, the 2014 PATRIARCHAL PROPERTIES COMMIT- TEE REPORT and a subsequent report, the PATRIARCHAL PROPERTIES COMMITTEE 2015 ADDENDUM, as to the status of the issues facing our Holy and Great Mother Church. You will find these reports valuable and helpful in fully understanding the issues facing the Patriarchate. Please study the content of these reports because they are the basis for which we will spread the needed awareness to the faithful. The Judge also traveled to Chicago in May of 2015 to be part of our Chicago Metropolis Religious Freedom Symposium, a very successful event. We thank the Judge for his efforts and dedication to our Church. 1

30 2014 ANNUAL REPORT 2014 PATRIARCHAL PROPERTIES COMMITTEE REPORT Submitted and Prepared by: Hon. B. Theodore Bozonelis Archon Ekdikos Chairman, Patriarchal Properties Committee This report focuses on Protecting Christian Heritage in Turkey through the protection, return and restoration of confiscated Christian properties and related issues. The overriding factor affecting these issues begins and ends with the lack of a legal status for Christian religious communities in Turkey. The Five Issues The deprivation of this fundamental right is one of the five major religious freedom violations identified by the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle pertaining to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Without question, the lack of a legal status directly impacts and forms the basis for the Order s four other identified major religious freedom violations by the Turkish Government: (1) interfering in the election of the Ecumenical Patriarch by requiring Turkish citizenship and controlling by veto any candidate for the position, (2) failing to recognize the Ecumenical status of the Patriarch and Patriarchate as the world-wide spiritual leader and Holy Center of Orthodox Christianity (3) forcibly closing down the Theological School of Halki creating the inability to train new clergy, and (4) confiscating thousands of Orthodox Christian related properties. Turkey s Human Rights Obligations Turkey is a country of geo-strategic importance located in two continents at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is a member of the United Nations, Council of Europe, NATO, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) 2

31 and in 2005 began formal accession negotiations to join the European Union. Accordingly, its relationship with the United States remains a priority in our country s foreign policy and ensuring our country s fundamental rights as freedom of religion is a matter which Turkey and our country should embrace together as partners in member organizations. Moreover, by virtue of its membership in all these organizations, Turkey has taken on binding obligations to protect the rights of religious minorities. As a participating State in OSCE, Turkey has obligations under Article VII of the Helsinki Accords to guarantee and protect the rights of national minorities. The Concluding Document of the 1989 Vienna Meeting of the organization requires participating states to protect the rights of religious communities. As a member of the Council of Europe, Turkey has ratified the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. Article 9 of the Convention requires Turkey as a member state to protect freedom of religion, including the right to manifest religion in worship, teaching, practice, and observance, subject only to limitations as necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of the public order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. Yet, despite these obligations, major restrictions on freedom of religion in Turkey continue to persist. The system of Minority (Community) Foundations and The Treaty of Lausanne Turkey s participation in the European Union accession process has provided an impetus for some signs of progress in religious freedom and minority rights under the above obligations as explained below, but the underlying principles basic to religious freedom values are not allowed. As stated, non-muslim religious minorities do not have a legal status (a legal personality ) in Turkey to acquire and enjoy property rights in their own names. Rather, Turkey as a secular State, has established a system of minority (community) foundations for non-muslim religious minorities to hold property supervised and controlled by the Turkish government s General Directorate of Foundations. The system of foundations was established with the formation of the Turkish Republic under the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923 and, at that time, Turkey principally recognized three non-muslim religious minorities: Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic Patriarchates, and Jewish Chief Rabbinate. Foundation law had its roots in earlier Ottoman Empire decrees and administrative reforms where these non-muslim religious minorities were referred to as pious deed corporations. Through the foundation system, restrictions on religious freedom existed even though the intent of the Treaty of Lausanne was to grant these religious minorities 3

32 equal rights. Articles 40 and 42, Paragraph 3, of the Treaty related to minority foundations and granted Turkish nationals belonging to non-muslim minorities equal rights to exercise their own religion freely. The Turkish government was to grant full protection to religious establishments of non-muslim minorities. All facilities and authorization will be granted to the pious foundations, and to the religious and charitable institutions of the said minorities at present existing in Turkey, and the Turkish Government will not refuse, for the formation of new religious and charitable institutions, any necessary facilities which are guaranteed to other private institutions of that nature. (Article 42, para. 3). However, with the systematic seizure of non-muslim minorities properties by the Turkish government in the years that followed, the provisions of the Treaty were essentially disregarded. Being Turkish and Muslim became the new nationalism at the expense of non-muslim religious minorities resulting in discrimination and the confiscation of properties. The Diyanet and the Laws on Religious Foundations While Muslim religious communities, as the Alevi Muslims minority representing up to 25% of the Turkish population, also lack a legal personality, the majority religion, being Sunni Muslim, is treated in a far different manner. For all practical purposes Sunni Muslims have a legal status exercised through The Diyanet or Directorate ( Presidency ) of Religious Affairs, which being all Sunni Muslim, reports to the Prime Minister and exerts a large influence on the extent to which freedom of religion is enjoyed in Turkey. Only the Diyanet administers Mosques which must all be Sunni and administers some 600 mid-level clergy training schools. Only the Diyanet receives substantial financial support, in billions of dollars, for its activities from the Turkish Government. Without any such financial support combined with the lack of a legal status, non-muslim religious minorities, and the Alevi Muslim minority, have difficulty in exercising religious freedom. Indeed, Alevi Muslim s houses of worship are not recognized by the Turkish government and all religious minorities have no open clergy training facilities. A 1935 Law on Religious Foundations, and the subsequent 1936 Decree, required all foundations, Muslim and non-muslim alike, to declare their properties by registering the same with the General Directorate of Foundations which oversees minority foundations. By the 1960 s, with tensions rising between Greece and Turkey over Cyprus, the declared properties list was used to seize properties of non-muslim religious minority foundations. Although the minority foundations had declared their properties by 1936, many were not officially registered by the government and accordingly seized. Thereafter, in 1974, at the time of the Cyprus crisis, Turkey s highest court ruled that non-muslim religious minorities were 4

33 foreigners and could not obtain real property. Properties were limited to those declared in 1936 and that properties purchased or donated after that date were considered to be acquired illegally resulting in the confiscation of all such properties. Since the time of the Cyprus crisis, and with Turkey seeking to join the European Union, some limited progress has developed to solve the problems of non- Muslim religious minority foundations. The 1935 law on Religious Foundations has been amended in 2002, 2003 and 2008 to allow religious minority foundations, with restrictions, to acquire property and apply for the return of confiscated properties. The 2002 amendment allowed minority foundations to acquire real property with the permission of the government based on need. The 2003 amendment allowed for the acquisition of properties with only the approval of the General Directorate of Foundations and listed 162 authorized minority foundations. The 2008 amendment provided for a limited return of seized property by application, but with no mention of just compensation or third party ownership issues. Despite these amendments, little progress was made, the vast majority of applications denied, and the goals for the return of confiscated properties were not attained. The August 27, 2011 Decree Within this historical context, as a positive development, Turkey s Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, announced by Decree on August 27, 2011 (not parliamentary law) that the162 minority foundations may apply to regain religious property declared and registered in 1936 and confiscated from them by the State or seek compensation. The Decree also provided for the formation of new religious community foundations as a corrective measure in the 1936 registration of properties law. Applications to regain property generally had to be made within 12 months by August 27, 2012 and regulations for implementation were adopted October 1, Of the 162 recognized minority foundations, over 70 are Greek Orthodox which claimed over 1000 properties in issue since the 2008 applications. However, as of July of last year, only 16% of all minority foundation applications, Greek Orthodox and others, received a positive response. That number has risen to approximately 25% or over 300 properties returned as of this date. Yet, it is not the number of properties returned that matters but the quality of properties returned. For example, an important and symbolic return of property has been the decision of the Council of Foundations, a part of the General Directorate of Foundations, to return 190 hectares (470 acres) of forestland to the Aya Triada Monastery Foundation of the Halki Seminary. However, the vast majority of well over 1000 applications were rejected or still have received no assessment and the Halki Seminary itself, despite its gain of forestland, remains closed. 5

34 In addition, the Decree is narrow in its scope. It does not cover property that was not declared by minority foundations under the 1936 law or property that was nationalized by the State. It also does not cover the seizure of properties from religious institutions that do not have foundations. For example, property that once belonged to the Catholic or Anglican churches is not covered. These churches have neither a minority foundation nor like all religious minorities independent legal status. Most important, it does not address the properties of government seized minority foundations which the government took over because of its claim of lack of foundation board elections or charitable purposes. Further, under the Decree, the determination of compensation, when in issue, is not made by an independent body bur rather through the government. Election of Minority Foundation Board Members For the properties returned, an overriding issue remains that election of foundation board members, none of whom may be clergy, has been delayed by the Turkish government. This delay creates a troubling concern as to how returned properties will ever be effectively managed. The attrition of the religious minorities population, especially in the Greek Orthodox community, without election of Board members, in practice means that returned properties cannot be sustained by minority foundations. This issue is of such importance that the duly elected minority representative to the General Directorate of Foundations, Laki Vingas, resigned in protest, but has since returned to his position on the government s promise that the issue of elections will be vetted. Foundation elections, however, still have not been authorized to date. European Court of Human Rights and the Issue of a Legal Status With the history of enforcement of religious freedom provisions for non- Muslin minorities under the Treaty of Lausanne and Turkish law being restrictive and tied to geo-political concerns, resort to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has been an alternative avenue to pursue non-muslim religious minority rights in Turkey. For example, after extensive litigation, the Ecumenical Patriarchate obtained a ECHR Judgment in 2008 for the return of the Prinkipos (Buyukada) Orphanage Building, which to Turkey s credit, has been implemented and accepted by the Turkish Courts. The Judgment produced in November 2010 a deed title for the property in the name of : Rum Patrikhanesi (Patriarchate of the Roman Greeks), the official name for the Ecumenical Patriarchate used by the Government of Turkey. This is an important development. Even though Turkey does not recognize a legal status for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the deed title as issued and accepted by the Turkish Courts in the name of Rum Patrikhanesi creates a de facto legal sta- 6

35 tus. It establishes a legal argument to further the cause of obtaining official recognition of a legal personality for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and all religious minorities. Also, in March 2011, Turkey implemented a ECHR Judgment of March 2009 which returned property rights to the Greek Orthodox minority foundation (Kimisis Theodokou Greek Orthodox Church) in the island of Tenedos (Bozcaada). Further, a significant ECHR case was settled in 2013 whereby the General Directorate of Foundations returned the historic former Ayia Foka Greek Elementary School building in Istanbul to the foundation despite the fact that it was utilized as the offices of the government's European Union Ministry. Halki and the Reciprocity Issue Turkey s acceptance of these ECHR judgments raised the hope that the Halki Seminary would be reopened. On September 30, 2013, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the government s reform or democratization package. It contained electoral reforms and abolished the headscarf ban for the personnel of public institutions with the exception of armed and security forces and members of the judiciary. The opening of Halki was originally included in the package. However, it was removed at the last moment and proved to be a major disappointment to non-muslim religious minorities. The Turkish government has also utilized Article 45 of the Treaty of Lausanne, the so-called reciprocity clause, to justify the continued closure of the Halki Seminary. It reads: the rights conferred by the provisions of the present Section on the non-muslim minorities of Turkey will be similarly conferred by Greece on the Muslim minority in her territory. Turkish authorities argue, for example, that a Mosque must open in Athens in exchange for Halki Seminary to open. The argument has no merit as it was never meant to apply to a state s own citizens. Moreover, under modern international law, human rights take precedence over any agreements of reciprocity between states. Neither Turkey nor Greece can deny that its own citizens should be treated equally as to basic and fundamental rights. Constitutional Reform Turkey s recent efforts to draft a new Constitution also raised the hope of all minorities for religious freedom and equality as citizens of the country. On February 20, 2012, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was invited by the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to appear before the Inter-Party Committee for the drafting of a new Constitution. In His appearance, His All Holiness discussed religious freedom issues and presented an 18 page document prepared by all minorities emphasizing the need for religious freedom, religious education and equality. However, under the proposed Constitution draft section entitled Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, political parties disagreed and could not come to a 7

36 consensus on the definition of citizenship, the right to freedom of religion, equality and religious education. For example, the main opposition Republican People s Party (CHP) proposed the inclusion of a statement that the State would take into account the religious pluralism in society in its governance on religion. The ruling and majority Justice and Development Party (AKP) opposed such language. The AKP and CHP could also not agree on the continuation of compulsory secondary school Religious Culture and Knowledge of Ethics (RCKE) courses which instruct pupils in Sunni Islam and is supported by the AKP majority. For these reasons, and other political disagreements, the Constitutional Reconciliation Commission which was to draft the new Constitution ceased functioning in November 2013, and without such agreement on educating Turkish youth on religious diversity, a cycle of inequality for religious minorities continues to perpetuate itself. The Protests and the Parallel State Complicating the failure of the Constitution drafting process has been the Gezi Park protests in Istanbul which began in May-June 2013 over the Park s proposed development, but evolved into broader protests for protection of human rights. Further, claims of political corruption has led the AKP majority to blame a parallel state which the AKP alleges is controlled by Fethullah Gulen, an influential Iman based in the United States. The AKP asserts that Gulen is seeking to topple the government and that Gulenists" have established a presence in the police and judiciary. As a result, the government removed thousands of prosecutors, judges and police officers and enacted laws for oversight of the judiciary and internet. Allegations of corruption in recorded political telephone conversations which became public led Prime Minister Erdogan to enforce internet bans of Twitter and You Tube in March In response, Turkey s Constitutional Court has ruled that the bans were unconstitutional and lifted the blockade. Despite this political turmoil, Mr. Erdogan remains popular. Barred by party rules from running as prime minister for another term, on July 1, 2014, he announced that he would run in Turkey s first direct popular ballot presidential election on August 10, He won that election and was sworn in as President on August 27, The next day, on August 28, 2014, Ahmet Davutaglu, a loyal ally of Mr. Erdogan, was sworn in as prime minister. As President, Mr. Erdogan will continue to be the powerful leader of the Turkish government amid the past year s political unrest. All 550 members of Turkey s parliament, the Grand National Assembly, will run for election on June 13, If the AKP party obtains a majority in the Assembly, political analysts have observed that the AKP may seek to change Turkey s political system to place the power in the office of President rather than in the office of the prime minister. 8

37 Christian Heritage and Hagia Sophia The issue for the non-muslim and Alevi Mulsim religious minorities is whether these events will limit or change any attempt to implement progress for protections of religious freedom and equality or whether now President Erdogan will take the lead to guarantee such protections. This is the issue that His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and all other religious minority leaders, face daily in Turkey. A troubling sign in this regard is that the protection of Christian Heritage has continued to diminish during this time. Important and historical Orthodox Churches which functioned as museums and drew Christian tourists have recently been converted into Mosques and lost their identity. One such case is Hagia Sophia of Nicaea, in present day Iznik, which served as such a museum and an important destination for Christian tourists. Nicaea is where bishops from all over the Roman Empire gathered in 325 A.D. at the First Ecumenical Council to formulate the Christian Nicaean Creed. Hagia Sophia of Nicaea was built in 550 A.D. fashioned after the Great Church of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. At Hagia Sophia of Nicaea the Seventh and last Ecumenical Council took place in 787 A.D. to denounce iconoclasm and open the world to Christian religious art. Yet, in , the Church is no longer a museum and has been converted by the government into a Mosque. In May, 2014, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom released a statement on a bill introduced in Turkey s parliament that would change the status of the historic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul from a museum to a Mosque. The Commission stated Whether driven by political considerations tied to Turkey s forthcoming elections, or for any other reason, opening Hagia Sophia as a mosque would clearly be a divisive and provocative move. It would send the message that the current government sees the sensitivities of Turkey s religious minority communities, particularly its ancient Christian community, as being of little or no consequence. His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew On May 25-26, 2014, His Holiness Pope Francis as the world-wide spiritual leader of all Roman Catholic Christians and His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew as the world-wide spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians held a historic meeting for a dialogue of unity in Jerusalem to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the legacy of unity discussions held there by their predecessors, Pope Paul VI and Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras. As global heads of the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, the two largest Christian Churches, they 9

38 signed a Joint Declaration affirming their commitment to seek unity and expressed their profound concern for the persecution of Christians in the Middle East. This was a world event extensively covered by the press and meetings also occurred with the two religious leaders and the heads of State of Israel and the Palestinian Authorities. Thereafter, Israeli President Shimon Peres and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met in Rome on June 8, 2014 with Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to pray for peace. Yet, despite this world-wide recognition of the status of His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and despite His being a Turkish citizen and having served His country honorably in the Turkish military, the Turkish government will not officially recognize His status as the Ecumenical world-wide spiritual leader of all Orthodox Christians. It will give no legal status to His Ecumenical Patriarchate. It will not allow the complete freedom for the election of His successor as Ecumenical Patriarch. It will not allow the training of His clergy and the opening of the Halki Seminary. It will not allow the return of all Greek Orthodox confiscated properties He needs to oversee without restrictions. His religious freedom remains compromised although the history of His country is tied to the historical doctrines and origins of Christianity. The hope is that Turkey will determine, as its laws and political parties progress, to embrace the historical roots of Christian heritage in its lands and embrace His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and all minority religious leaders, for their accomplishments and moral characters as Turkish citizens. All religious minorities look toward this positive solution.. However, until meaningful change occurs, the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, through all Archons, must remain vigilant to protect and preserve the Ecumenical Patriarchate and to promote religious freedom and human rights for all religious minorities in Turkey. 10

39 ARCHONS OF THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE Metropolis of Chicago ARCHON / PHILOPTOCHOS RETREAT CLERGY LAITY, MADISON, WI SATURDAY, 4:00 PM, NOVEMBER 14, Presentation of the 5 Key Issues facing our Patriarchate; 2. Creating Awareness; 3. Parish Symposiums, Preparation Support of Local Parishes; 4. Reciprocatory Support of Events; 5. Open Discussion. 40 E. Burton Place, Chicago, IL Telephone: (312) Fax: (312)

40 ARCHONS OF THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE Metropolis of Chicago The Following 2015 Regional Commander s Report was presented at the Archons Annual Meeting held in New York, October 16-18, 2015

41 2015 ANNUAL COMMITTEE & REGIONAL COMMANDERS REPORT 2015 METROPOLIS OF CHICAGO, REGIONAL COMMANDER S REPORT Submitted and Prepared by: Gus M. Pablecas, Archon Ostiarios and John G. Manos, Archon Eutaxias - Regional Commanders The following report reflects the Metropolis of Chicago Archon activities for the period commencing from January 2015, the time of our appointment as Regional Commanders. Activities are as follows: 1. Dissemination of a Letter of Introduction to all of the Metropolis Archons advising of Regional Commander appointments; 2. Informational Data Sheets sent to Archons in an effort to update Archon contact information on file and where applicable, any new information forwarded to the New York Archon office; 3. As of this writing, on February 19 th. April 28 th, May 19 th, June 10 th, July 30 th and September 16 th., the Regional Commanders took part telephonically in the National Council Meetings, resulting in sharing of ideas and information; 4. With the support of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, the Archons traveled to Schererville, Indiana where a presentation was made at the Lenten Luncheon Retreat hosted by the Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos. The local Indiana Archons were also invited by the Regional Commanders to attend. Archons traveled with His Eminence,

42 Metropolitan Iakovos and experienced an excellent turnout. In attendance was His Eminence, Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Archons and over the 200 ladies. The Archons handed out flyers with the Five Key Issues facing our Holy and Great Mother Church. With a request from the podium, asking how many laymen in the audience were aware of the Archon s endeavor and the challenges facing our Mother Church, less than 10% was aware of the situation facing our Church. It was stressed that Indiana continues to be a hold out state where a Resolution has been introduced but has not moved forward. The Indiana audience was encouraged to contact their local representatives in support of the Resolution; 5. An Archon Meet & Greet event took place just prior to the Greek Independence Parade on March 29 th. in Chicago, Illinois and was also attended by Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago and His Grace, Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos. A strategic location had been secured where the Meet & Greet took place, offering a light complimentary breakfast for the attending Archons. A short agenda was presented and then the Archons marched together in the parade. The purpose was to show our unity as Archons and to reinforce our call to duty to defend and promote our Great Mother Church; 6. Discussion was held between Regional Commanders and Archon Stephen Georgeanne and Archon Tom Cappas concerning the pending Resolutions in Indiana and Minnesota; 7. A Religious Freedom Symposium and an appreciation joint event were held on May 16 th. in which Archon Harold Peponis, Regional Commander Emeritus was recognized for his service to the Church and to the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate over the many decades. As part of the event, a Religious Freedom Symposium was presented in which the Hon. B. Theodore Bozonelis, Archon Ekdikos, Elected National Secretary, Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle - Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, flew in from New York for the presentation. The Symposium was very well attended and the attendees found the subject matter presented by the Judge, educational and inspiring. Attendees included Hierarches, clergymen, Archons, wives, Philoptochos ladies and an array of the faithful who crowed the room. Wine and d oeuvres were served and afterwards, a dinner was held at a local eatery where further Archon fellowship was shared;

43 8. An Archon Retreat is planned as part of our Metropolis Clergy Laity scheduled for this November and to be held in Madison, Wisconsin. The event will be preceded by an Archon Meet & Greet where Archons will be invited once again to meet in a casual atmosphere and discuss the issues facing our Patriarchate. In addition, the Archons will be meeting with the local Philoptochos ladies as part of a joint Retreat to discuss the Five Key Issues and seek a coalition as was encouraged at the Second International Freedom Conference that was held in Berlin, Germany in December 2013; 9. With the assistance of the NY, the Metropolis Archons have established a publication, entitled The Archon Corner. The publication will be disseminated throughout the Metropolis parishes, in an effort to create awareness of the Religious Freedom issues facing our Patriarchate. The first publication was authored by Archon Thomas N. Kanelos; 10. Working closely with the National Council Executive Committee and with Archon Steven M. Laduzinsky, Vice President and Secretary, John C. Kulis Charitable Foundation, the Chicago Metropolis Archons have applied for a 3 year matching grant and donation program with the Kulis Foundation. The funds will be used to assist in Metropolis Archon events, programs and educational publications in the promoting and defending of the Holy and Great Mother Church; 11. In July, a Metropolis Archon Summit was held among the Archons to inform, share ideas and formulate strategy in pursuing the Metropolis Archon s endeavor; 12. The Metropolis Archons were represented at the March Archon Lenten Retreat held in Southampton, NY;

44 13. Tentative plans are being considered to have an Archon Retreat sometime in the spring of 2016, to be held at our St. Iakovos Retreat Center located in Kansasville, Wisconsin; 14. Archons, Dr. George F. Dalianis fell asleep in the Lord in April. An Archon Honor Guard was provided. With Service in His Name, Gus M. Pablecas and John G. Manos Regional Commanders Metropolis of Chicago

45 FORTY EAST BURTON PLACE CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (312) Your Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos Your Grace Bishop Demetrios Reverend Fathers, Presbyteres, Philoptochos Board Members, Philoptochos Chapter Presidents, Philoptochos Members, Esteemed Archons of the Patriarchate, and Delegates of the 2015 Clergy-Laity and Philoptochos Conference: It has been an honor to have served from , for a second term as the Chicago Metropolis Philoptochos President. My heartfelt appreciation and gratitude is extended to His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos and His Grace, Bishop Demetrios for their understanding, patience, and guidance these past four years. Our Metropolis Philoptochos is privileged to have the guidance of our hierarchs and on behalf of the entire Metropolis Philoptochos Board and Chapters, my heartfelt thanks is extended to them. Philoptochos continues to do its good works with discretion, courtesy and kindness. This ministry continues to: come to the aid of those less fortunate, to preserve and perpetuate the Orthodox Christian concepts and the Orthodox family, to promote the Greek Orthodox faith and traditions, and to promote the activities of the Greek Orthodox community. Metropolis of Chicago Ministries and Outreach We are blessed to have the Feed the Hungry Program and Philanthropy Fund as ministries. Georgia Barris continues to take an active role in the Feed the Hungry Program which she is instrumental for its conception 25 years ago. Helen Theodosakis continues to assist and come to the aid of those needing assistance from our Philanthropy Fund. These two lades continue to be role models and an example of what the mission of Philoptochos is truly all about. Chicago s Feed the Hungry concept launched a new program for National Philoptochos. Maria Logus, the National Philoptochos President was so inspired by the program she wanted to take it to a national level, hoping to reach starving and hungry people across the United States. Vasilopita St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago and St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Elmhurst were the host parishes for the Vasilopita Celebration in 2014 and These two parishes graciously welcomed over 400 guests into their communities. The Vasilopita Celebration is honored by having Chicago Metropolis Clergy, Presbyteres, Archons and many guests in attendance. All proceeds collected from the event benefit St. Basil s Academy in Garrison, New York. The 2016 Vasilopita Celebration will be Sunday, January 10.

46 Lenten Retreat Each year the Philoptochos Metropolis hosts a Lenten Retreat during Great Lent. Our heartfelt thanks are extended to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Libertyville, Illinois and St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Schererville, Indiana for serving as the host parishes in 2014 and Metropolis Board members serve as chairmen with the assistance of His Grace, Bishop Demetrios as Retreat master. St. Iakovos Retreat Center Saturday, June 6 was a joyous day for all as the doors of the newly built St. Iakovos Retreat Center were officially opened. Philoptochos was pleased to be part of the official opening. The Metropolis Board and Chapters have continued to contribute funds for this Metropolis project. We were proud to be a major benefactor and will continue to support the needs of the Retreat Center. Philoptochos conducts at least one official meeting at the Center each year and celebrates the feast day of the Chapel: Theotokos of the Life-Giving Font. September Luncheon The third Saturday of each September the Metropolis Philoptochos Board hosts a Luncheon which is the official kickoff for all Philoptochos events. The theme for the 2014 luncheon was: Faith, Family and Philoxenia, the proceeds benefited the Philoxenia Home in Rochester, Minneapolis, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center and the Philanthropic endeavor of Philoptochos. Our Faith and Our Foundation Is Our Future took place on September 19 th and the proceeds benefited St. Nicholas Shrine at Ground Zero, St. Iakovos Retreat Center and the Philanthropic endeavors of the Metropolis. Also at this September Luncheon, we were honored to have National Philoptochos President Maria Logus as a guest and speaker. A check for $10,000 to assist Aid to Our Brethren in Greece and Cyprus was presented to President Logus as a Philanthropic gesture on behalf of all Metropolis of Chicago chapters and members. Metropolis Open House The Philoptochos Metropolis Board, with the assistance of the chapters, continues to hosts His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos Christmas Open House. Each year His Eminence opens his home during the Christmas season to greet the faithful of the Metropolis. Hundreds of guests enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the home as well as the home baked sweets and delicious homemade appetizers as well as welcoming hospitality. The ladies of the Metropolis Board as well as members of many chapters work for days in making this annual event one that will be remembered. In conjunction with the Open House, guests are asked to bring nonperishable goods for a food drive that has been established to benefit The Greater Chicago Food Depository. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero has been a priority of Philoptochos this past year. His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios has asked Philoptochos to take an active part of the rebuilding of St. Nicholas Church, a small church that stood in the financial district of New York City and was destroyed on 9/11, 2001 with the World Trade Center Towers. After years of negotiations, finally a site to rebuild the Shrine on 130 Liberty Street was negotiated. Each Philoptochos member was requested to personally donate one hundred dollars and thus become part of this legacy to our Greek Orthodox faith. Most Philoptochos chapters in our Metropolis also had fund raisers to assist in the rebuilding. The Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos sponsored AGAPE DINNER III, raising $20,000 to benefit the rebuilding of the Shrine. Thank you to everyone who has given, fund raised, and has been part of this reconstruction.

47 Christian Fellowship Five Philoptochos chapters felt there was a need to serve the seniors in their community. These five churches, all located in the Southern suburbs: St. Spyridon, SS Constantine and Helen, St. Nicholas, Holy Cross and Assumption in Homer Glen have organized Christian Fellowship an outreach program for their seniors. These five churches act as host one time during the year providing fellowship for their seniors. The day begins with Liturgy followed by a delicious lunch, and some sort of entertainment, maybe even Greek dancing. Anyone who is a senior is welcomed to attend. The event has been a huge success, and hopefully one day will continue throughout our other Greek Orthodox communities, remembering our seniors. Communication Communication continues to be a goal and major focus for the past two years. The Perspective Newsletter continues to be instrumental in providing updates of what is happening throughout our Metropolis. This electronic newsletter is mailed to all chapter presidents who then forward it to their chapter s mailing list. Chapters continue to respond positively by contributing pictures and articles of their chapter events. It has been a challenge, but Philoptochos continues to embrace the going green concept following His Holiness, Patriarch Bartholomew s concern for the environment. The use of Chapter liaisons continues to be a wonderful tool in communication. The purpose of the liaison is to build a stronger connection between the Metropolis and the Chapter. The responsibility of the liaison is: to keep chapters updated and informed, answer questions and concerns, encourage chapters to participate in Philoptochos President Meetings, conventions and events and to assist chapter with any questions or concerns they may have. Aide to Our Brethren in Greece and Cyprus As the economic conditions in Greece and Cyprus continued to worsen, it was evident that Philoptochos needed to reach out to our brethren in Greece and Cyprus. Through National Philoptochos, each Metropolis and chapter was called upon to assist. Chapters and individuals hosted various fund raisers, coming to the aid of those less fortunate than ourselves. Chapters sponsored Sunday Fellowship Hours with the proceeds going to the cause. Through the Philanthropic endeavors of the Metropolis and Chapters, a $10,000 check was presented to National President Maria Logus to assist with aide to our Brethren in Greece and Cyprus. Commitments The ladies of the Philoptochos continue to be involved with many outreach programs, and ministries. The national Philoptochos Ministry Commitment, which all chapters in this Metropolis participate in are: Vasilopita Sisterhood of Saint Basil Academy Social Services International Orthodox Christian Charities IOCC Autism Awareness 75 th Anniversary Founders Fund St. Photios Shrine Orthodox Christian Fellowship OCF Orthodox Christian Mission Center OCMC Retired Clergy and Presbyteres Benevolent Fund Support a Mission Priest SAMP Hellenic College Holy Cross Scholarship Fund Hellenic College and Holy Cross National Philoptochos Emergency Fund Ecumenical Patriarchate UNICEF General Medical Fund National Sisterhood of Presbyteres Benevolent Fund

48 Metropolis Philoptochos Board Members I would like to thank the Board Members for all their commitment to Philoptochos, our Greek Orthodox community, and the many ministries of our church these past two years. These ladies demonstrate true dedication, work tirelessly, and put passion and love to all they do. My deepest gratitude goes out to each and every one of them for being role models to our youth, mentors to every one they meet, and for being the best team members. It is truly my pleasure to have worked with these ladies who have offered their time and talent to the mission of Philoptochos. Officers: Pam Argyris-First Vice President Marilyn Tzakis-Second Vice President Carol Stamas-Recording Secretary Penny Geavaras-Corresponding Secretary Georgia Sarlas-Treasurer Christina Hiotis-Assistant Treasurer Board Members: Joanne Stavrakas-Advisor Voula Andrews Lena Angelos Netsa Antonakos Demetria Bakris Georgia Gavaris Pat Gerbanas Marilynn Jemas Kathy Katrakis Olga Paxinos Katherine Siavelis Patty Tsaoussis Peggy Vranas Kathy Walstrom *Honorary Board Members and Past Metropolis President Joanne Stavrakas *Lori Voutiritsas *Mary Ann Bissias *Susan Regos *Georgia Barris *+Fran Karapas *Helen Theodosakis *+Beatrice Marks On behalf of the Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos board, I humbly thank everyone who is participating in the Clergy-Laity and Philoptochos Conference. It is a commitment and responsibility to be here as a delegate. Thank you to all the faithful who continue to support Philoptochos and its mission. It is through you that Philoptochos continues to strive and help the less fortunate On behalf of the Metropolis Board and all the delegates, we would like to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to Father Michael Vanderhoef, Maria Molzahn, President of the Parish Council, Patti Cameron Philoptochos President, the Assumption Philoptochos and the entire community of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Madison, Wisconsin for their hospitality and all the time and energy they put forth in hosting this year s Clergy-Laity and Philoptochos Conference. I Remain, With Love in Christ, Irene Arsoniadis Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos President

49 Greetings, Your Eminence, Your Grace, Reverend Fathers, Presvyteres, and all those in attendance, Here is a definition of what our ministry is, what we have done these past two years, as well as what we plan to do and our goals for this ministry. Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Me is a ministry for our youth with special needs and their families. Our Metropolis has been blessed to have developed a program for our youth with special needs and their families to be able to feel comfortable coming into the church and not feel ashamed or that they are being judged. The goal of this ministry is to keep that inclusion feeling welcomed and keep these families coming into church. In the past there has been a separation and this is not to be tolerated. His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos along with Presvytera Toni Mihalopoulos, Deacon Chris Avramopoulos, and a committee and with the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago, we all have dedicated our time to see that this ministry is a success. We will be providing special events for them as well as inclusion events to get them active in other programs that are already successful in our metropolis. Even though we use the word youth our programs are open for anyone, any age, who has a disability and their families and/or caretakers. Since our last report from our previous clergy laity, the following programs have been administered and have been successful. At Saint Spyridon Church is Palos Heights, Illinois under the direction of Father Tilemachos and Presvytera Georgia Alikakos we had our annual day camp with an Inclusion Liturgy with the theme of Singing with the Angels. Our Pick Up Your Cross Families were able to attend Liturgy on Saturday November 15, 2015 and following liturgy we enjoyed each other s company with a mini-day retreat at the church. Presvytera Tulla Poteres (Ss. Constantine and Helen, Merrillville, Indiana) read a story with Pastoral Assistant Louie Pappas (Saint Demetrios, Chicago, Illinois) where the children learned about having a Guardian Angel. Mr. Louie Pappas was getting all the children involved with different hand motions and engaging the children throughout Presvytera Tulla s narration. After the story, Presvytera Georgia Alikakos (Saint Spyridon, Palos Heights, Illinois) lead the group in a craft. The parish welcomed us with open arms and even prepared a fasting, gluten free, meal for us to enjoy! We could not have been more grateful for the event. This past October we had another annual day camp at the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center. All the families and participants were glad to be back at our home for our annual camp. This year our theme was Christ: The Bread of Life and our families learned how to make prosforo. It was a wonderful day lead by Father Peter Sarolas (Ss. Constatine and Helen, Rockford, Illinois) and by Father George Lamberis (St. Harralambos, Niles, Illinois). The families enjoyed the camp groups, staying in the main lodge for our daily activities, going up to the barn to feed and pet the animals, take a hay wagon ride, and enjoyed music and signing with Father George. We had new families attend this year and we are loving that this ministry is continuing to grow. Fanari Camp- The past two years we have had participants and a guardian come up to Fanari Camp and participate in our Project Inclusion. It has been very successful at Green Lake and even more now at the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center. We hope and pray that this continues. This past year one of our participants even stayed in the boy s cabin with his fellow campers! We continuously thank the entire Fanar Camp Staff for allowing this program to continue and to be a success Junior Olympics: Special Olympics: The past two years at the Junior Olympics, Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Me has been fortunate to participate. Members of Pick Up Your Cross have participated in bowling, a track event, and softball throw. The highlight is always standing at the medal podium and

50 having His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos greet them and award them with participation medals. A big thank you goes out to Father Nicholas Jonas, Deacon Chris Avramopoulos, as well as the entire planning committee for the Junior Olympics for including these athletes and encouraging their participation. We have set a few goals that we would like to share so that you all know what is to be happening throughout the growth of this ministry: Goal: In my report two years ago I said that I wanted to add 15 families to our mailing list. It is with sadness that I say that we did not. We added six families. Did our program grow? Yes and I thank God that we have been able to continue to reach out to families but WE NEED MORE CLERGY SUPPORT! This ministry only can grow with the support of clergy. You know your parish better than anyone on our committee. PLEASE contact families that you know that could benefit from this ministry. You need to outreach to these families even if they do not come to church on a regular basis. We ask that you make the personal connection to these families and make the extra effort. One of the reasons to start and have this ministry is to bring these families back into church and to not be ashamed or afraid to come. Please contact Presvytera Toni Mihalopoulos or Deacon Chris Avramopoulos if you have families you think will benefit from Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Me. We also would like to thank some of our donors to make this possible: The Novak Foundation The Metropolis of Chicago Philopotchos Society As well as many of the private donors that wish to be anonymous. We also ask that you continue to pray for the soul of the servant of God Nicholas, a participant who fell asleep in the Lord a year ago. Please continue to pray for his soul and to continuously give his family strength during this time. Although he is no longer with us, we are grateful that he is no longer suffering, we remember his beautiful life and has now joined the choirs of Saints in Heaven. Again, thank you for all of those who have participated, donated, and volunteered with Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Me. I look forward to many more events with Pick Up Your Cross and with your help and love we know this ministry will continue to grow fruitfully. In Christ s Love, Presvytera Toni Mihalopoulos Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Me Coordinator

51 METROPOLIS OF CHICAGO JUNIOR OLYMPICS FINANCIAL REPORT & BUDGET Revenue 2015 Actual 2016 Budget Registration Fees $ 16, $ 18, Sponsors $ 14, $ 17, Total Revenue $ 31, $ 35, Expenses Parish/Office $ 3, $ 3, Labor $ 4, $ 4, Officals $ 7, $ 8, Rentals $ 5, $ 5, Equipment/Supplies $ 5, $ 5, Medals $ 3, $ 3, Scholarships $ 2, $ 2, Miscellaneous $ 2, $ 2, Total Expenses $ 34, $ 35, Note: Shortfall was covered by Surplus from previous year

52 CHICAGO CLERGY SYNDESMOS METROPOLIS OF CHICAGO HIERARCH: His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos CHANCELLOR: His Grace, Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos OFFICERS: President: Rev. Economos John Ketchum Vice Pres: Rev. Presbyter Christodoulos Margellos Treasurer: Rev. Presbyter Nicholas Georgiou Secretary: Rev. Presbyter Demetrios Kounavis ARCHDIOCESE PRESBYTERS COUNCIL: Rev. Economos John Ketchum Rev. Economos Michael Monos ARCHDIOCESE BENEFITS: Rev. Economos James L. Greanias ALUMNI: Rev. Presbyter Chrysanthos Kerkeres ARCHDIOCESAN COUNCIL: Rev. Protopresbyter Constantine Botsis Report to the 2015 Metropolis of Chicago Clergy Laity Conference Madison Wisconsin At the 2014 Clergy Retreat in Lake Geneva, WI. our Metropolis Clergy Syndesmos elected our current Executive Board for another 2 year term. Currently serving as the Metropolis of Chicago Clergy Syndesmos Officers are: President, Fr. John Ketchum of Kimissis Racine WI*; Vice-President, Fr. Christodoulos Margellos, St. George Rock Island, IL*; Treasurer, Fr. Nicholas Georgiou of Holy Apostles, Westchester, IL and Secretary, Fr. Demetrios Kounavis of Holy Cross Justice IL. We honored outgoing President Fr. James Greanias and long time treasurer Fr. Joseph Tzougros with pectoral crosses for their years of service to our Syndesmos. As we undertake our elected term we remain mindful and grateful to all of our predecessors, the Executive Boards who have laid a strong foundation and have set a true example of priesthood and service to the body of Christ that is our Holy Orthodox Church. The organization and existence of the Clergy Syndesmos works on so many different levels: as an advocacy for the financial, emotional and spiritual support of our devoted and faithful priests and their families; in caring for the less fortunate; as a source of continuing education to serve God's people and as a support and a source of the collective communication of our Hierarchy. We the Clergy Syndesmos of the Metropolis of Chicago are particularly blessed to serve the faithful of our Holy Metropolis under the Omophorion of our beloved Spiritual Father, His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos. Our Chicago Syndesmos, as mandated and/or requested of by the Archdiocese for the good of the priesthood and the Church as a whole, is responsible to send representatives to: the Archdiocese Presbyters Council; the Archdiocese Benefits Committee; the Archdiocese Council; the Alumni Association (which supports our Seminary) and the St. Photios Shrine. To all of these Boards and Committees we have representatives. Syndesmos is financially responsible for our representatives travel and accommodations. The Brother priests who represent us always pay for their non-included meals and incidentals. Their service not only comes with added monetary costs but also requires time away from their parish duties and families with increased responsibilities as a Syndesmos representative for any and all reports. At the 2014 Clergy Retreat in Lake Geneva, the Brotherhood elected as our Representatives to these Archdiocesan Boards and Committees the following Reverend Fathers: To the Archdiocese Presbyters Council (APC) Fr. John Ketchum (Syndesmos President is now automatically a member per APC Rules) and Fr. Michael Monos; To the Alumni Board of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, Fr. Chrysanthos Kerkeris; As our Representative to St. Photios Shrine, Fr. Peter Balkas. Our Metropolis Clergy Representative to the Archdiocesan Council is Fr. Dean Botsis. As the Metropolis Representative to the Archdiocese Benefits Council the Brotherhood elected Fr. James Greanias. 40 East Burton Place Chicago, IL Tel. : (312) , (219) Fax: , Web:

53 2015 Clergy Syndesmos Report Page Two In addition to the above financial responsibilities, the Chicago Clergy Syndesmos annually disburses between $11,000 - $15,000 to the following programs and philanthropic causes: the Retired Clergy Association (which aids retired priests and widowed Presvyteras in need); The Alumni Chair of the Seminary (for the education of our future priests); the Orthodox Christians for Life Committee (which ministers and provides education and support in life choice areas regarding abortion, capital punishment and poverty etc.); the Metropolis Philoxenia House in Rochester, MN; the Orthodox Christian Fellowship house for our College students at the University of Illinois. The Syndesmos is always receptive and prepared to respond to any requests from our Metropolis, Her programs, our Archdiocese and to any emergency/natural disaster that may arise. The Syndesmos also keeps on hand a reserved fund for when a catastrophic event or emergency hits one of the brother priests and their families (illness - sudden death - home destruction etc...); we also pay the expenses to our annual Clergy Retreat for any retired Brother Priest who wishes to attend. Finally, we are also responsible to the Archdiocese National Presbyters' Council for a yearly stewardship. The Chicago Clergy Syndesmos is very deeply committed to our Metropolis St. Iakovos Retreat Center. We have fulfilled our original pledge of $250,000 to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. Our Syndesmos has pledged an additional $250,000 commitment to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center.. Our only two sources of income to accomplish all of these things are the annual individual stewardship of each Brother Priest and the St. Iakovos Feastday dinner hosted each year by our Syndesmos in honor of His Eminence. On October 27 th of 2015 our Clergy Syndesmos will host our Annual St. Iakovos Feastday Dinner at the Chateau Ritz Banquets in Niles, IL in honor and commemoration of His Eminence s Feastday celebration. The focus of this dinner will once again be upon the honoring of our Spiritual Father through the continuing efforts of our entire Metropolis family to continually support our St. Iakovos Retreat Center. We are very blessed in our Holy Metropolis of Chicago to have so many talented, faithful and devoutly spiritual priests to serve our local parishes and Church. Your priest as the spiritual father in your community strives each day to first serve the Lord through the unending labor in His vineyard and in the love he has to offer to each and every member of his parish family. Each brother priest, together with his family makes many sacrifices working tirelessly for the good of the Church as a whole. Please in your daily prayers always keep in mind and heart your priest as he prays for and ministers to you and your family. *Note after their election, Fr. John Ketchum was reassigned July 2015 to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Milwaukee where he currently serves the Metropolis and Vice President Fr. Christodoulos Margellos was reassigned to St. Nicholas Oak Lawn, IL Respectfully Submitted By Rev. Fr. John Ketchum, President, Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Clergy Syndesmos

54 Wednesday, October 2 nd MINUTES CLERGY-LAITY-PHILOPTOCHOS ASSEMBLY October 2-5, 2013 South Sioux City, NE Marina Inn & Conference Center The assembly got underway with a meeting of the Clergy Syndesmos, followed by a meeting of priests and parish council presidents. After dinner that evening a special presentation titled Politics, Press, Resolution was given by Frank Lagouros and John Ackerman. They discussed the successful campaign in Illinois to pass Senate Resolution 70 in support of religious freedom for the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Their campaign will serve as a model for passage in two other states. Their effort was recognized by Harold Peponis, Archon Depoutatos, Regional Commander. The presentation concluded at 8:30 p.m. and was followed by a meeting of the Metropolis Council. Thursday, October 3 rd Plenary Session 9:00 AM Under a banner proclaiming Come to Me, all who labor and are laden, and I will give you peace, the opening session convened at 9:15 A.M. with a worship service by His Eminence, Metropolitan IAKOVOS, with appropriate hymns, prayer, and scripture being offered. At 9:30 A.M., His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos addressed the assembly proclaiming that we, all of us, constitute the Church on Earth. His Eminence welcomed those in attendance, thanking them for their service to the Church. He urged us to be devout and faithful Christians and raise our families according to Christ s teachings. In conclusion he thanked Holy Trinity Parish of Sioux City, Iowa for their effort to host the conference, and declared the conference officially open at 9:50 A. M. Fr. Dimitri Tobias, Priest of the host parish for the last two months, addressed those present. In his welcome Fr. Dimitri urges us to work as one unit, in harmony with one another and with God. His Grace Bishop Demetrios then introduced the keynote speaker, Fr. James Mackoul, who related actual, but inspirational stories from his life. These experiences were replete with analogies and focused on the theme of man s unity with God. He concluded with God s message, I am the light of the world.

55 At approximately 11:00 a.m. the assembled clergy-laity delegates and Philoptochos representatives, were dismissed to their respective meetings. Clergy-Laity Business Meeting The Clergy-Laity business meeting was convened at 11:20 A.M. His Grace Bishop Demetrios started by offering a Trisagion Service for the recently departed Nicholas Sialmis, a friend of the Metropolis. Chairman George Vourvoulias then opened the meeting, appointing Mr. Michael Ferretti, St. Nicholas, St. Louis, as secretary and Mr. Jim Kandilas, St. John the Baptist, Des Plaines, as parliamentarian. On a motion made by Mr. Greg Kantares, Assumption, Town & Country, and followed by a second, for the approval of the minutes of the last Metropolis Clergy-Laity- Philoptochos Conference held in October 2011 in Champaign, Illinois, the minutes were approved as recorded. The minutes of the Special Clergy-Laity meeting held in Des Plaines, Illinois, on December 8, 2012, were approved with two corrections: On page 2, Mr. Leo Manta asked for a definition of Phase 2 (not Phase 1 as was noted); and on page 3, Mr. Ted Sepsis was erroneously referred to as Fr. Ted Sepsis. Mr. Vourvoulias noted that most of the conference reports were included in the delegate packages. i St. Iakovos Retreat Center Mr. Bill Vranas, President of the SIRC, proposed a motion to the delegates that had been passed by the SIRC board and unanimously endorsed by the Metropolis Council. The motion read: The St. Iakovos Retreat Center requests the Metropolis of Chicago extend the parish allocation of $200,000 for the next two years. After a brief discussion, a motion made by Jim Kandilas and seconded by Fr. Jim Greanias was passed. Metropolis Website Fr. Michael Monos summarized the increased usage statistics that the website has enjoyed and noted with great pride the improvements made to it recently. These included compatibility with smart phones and tablet devices and will soon include Android devices as well. He then described exciting news about on-line classes to be offered, including chanting classes. Registration fees will be kept small and will only be used to offset licensing and other unavoidable costs.

56 Suggestions from the floor included offering directions to the Retreat Center and more youth-related content. Clergy Syndesmos Fr. Jim Greanias, St. Iakovos, Valparaiso, reported that all but about $3,000 of the $250,000 pledged to the SIRC had been paid. Fr. Greanias then read a statement endorsed by the Syndesmos that deplored use of the public media in the handling of internal issues and conflicts. Mr. Jim Kandilas moved that the statement be endorsed by the body, and after a second, his motion was passed unanimously. In the Syndesmos written report, it was noted that the clergy pension fund is underfunded and that $2.7M is owed by the parishes. While not an immediate problem, this will become so in the decades to come. Archdiocesan Finances Due to the funeral of Nicholas Sialmas, Jerry Dimitriou, the Archdiocesan Director of Administration, could not be present. Instead, Mr. George Matthews, the Archdiocese Treasurer, gave the financial status. He related that the Archdiocese status for 2012 contained much to be thankful for. For example, payables were down from $14M in 2006 to only $4M in 2012; that archdiocesan debt is down, and timely audits are now being done; that current/prior commitment collections have reached 100% in 2012 for the first time; that Unrestricted Contributions exceeded the budget by $1.3M; and that there were neither legal settlements necessary in 2012 nor lawsuits pending. Questions from the floor included an understanding of what constitutes expenses for Education and the current shortfall in the collections of clergy pension fund payments. Jim Kandilas moved for acceptance of the report and after a second by Greg Katares, the motion passed. Nominations for the Metropolis Council Chairman Vourvoulias read the by-laws regarding the requirements and make-up of the Metropolis Council before distributing nomination forms. Eight (8) clergy and eight (8) lay representatives will be elected. Nominations for the Archdiocesan Council Nominations for the Archdiocesan Council were distributed. One (1) clergy and two (2) lay members will be elected.

57 Point of Order Mr. Byron Zotaly rose to announce a point of order in the proceedings regarding the vote to accept the motion made by the SIRC Board. His point was to ensure that the delegates understood and accepted the content of the report, i.e. the extension of the annual $200K assessment for two more years. His Grace posed the question to the attendees, and the response was a resounding yes, the motion was clear and understood. At 12:35 p.m. the business meeting was adjourned for lunch. After lunch, Fr. Chris Metropulos, St. Demetrios, Ft. Lauderdale, and Director of the Orthodox Christian Network (OCN) have a thought-provoking presentation on communication. He explained that OCN is to communication what IOCC is to charitable giving. Fr. Chris explained the four elements of communication Listening, Reading, Watching, and Learning. He described the breadth of OCN, reaching 300 million worldwide, 24/7, to supplement Christian teaching. His ministry includes radio, podcasts, You Tube, the on-line store, videos, and talk radio. He described with alarm that 30% of people age have no church affiliation and worse, the same could be said of 90% of children. However, he also noted that half of the world s population is under 30 and constitutes a huge opportunity. In conclusion, he asked that each parish and each Philoptochos chapter make OCN a part of their giving, contrasting his small $300K budget compared to the hundreds of millions dollars spent by similar Catholic and Protestant ministries. Assembly Workshops The following workshops were offered beginning at 2:45 p.m. WORKSHOP Missionary Media: Using media to fulfill our purpose Protecting God s Gift: The environment Strategic Planning for the Orthodox Parish PRESENTER Fr. Chris Metropulos Dr. George Nassos Mr. George Matthews At 4:45 p.m. buses departed for Great Vesper services at Holy Trinity Church, after which the grand banquet was held. After dinner, His Grace Bishop Demetrios recognized a pillar of the Sioux City parish, Maria Schultz, by awarding her the highest honor of the Metropolis, the St. Iakovos Award for her service.

58 Friday, October 4 th After the morning worship service at 9:00 a.m., Fr. Mark Munoz, Holy Anargyroi, Rochester, MN, gave the homily. Fr. Mark spoke of the spirit of the Philoxenia House in personal terms with the diagnosis of his daughter Nina s illness. In Father s despair, God presented Himself in the form of loving, caring parishioners. Similarly, he urged us to show God s presence, His love, to others. Mr. Frank (Athanasios) Dancer, St. John the Baptist, Cedar Rapids, IA, then described his personal conversion in a presentation titled, How I Came to Orthodoxy and Why I Stayed A Layman s Perspective. In his address Mr. Dancer characterized today s Protestantism with its mega churches, its various, often contradictory doctrinal interpretations, and church hopping vs. Orthodoxy s ancient doctrine, ritualized worship, and historical succession from the Apostles. He described his personal transition that dealt with unfamiliar things, including icons, chanting, the sign of the Cross, fasting, length of the service, etc. He urged the faithful to welcome newcomers, avoid stressing ethnic identity, offer understanding and communication, arrange unity dinners, etc. A second address, this time titled How I Came to Orthodoxy and Why I Stayed A Priest s Perspective was offered by Fr. Dustin Lyon of the Prophet Elias Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Father first posed a provocative statement, If you are Orthodox for any other reason than experiencing the living church, then you have nothing. He began with the story of his strict Methodist upbringing, but found during his college years that the church s theological stance was grounded on different interpretations. His conversion to and ultimate ordination in the Greek Orthodox Church was sparked by his archeological expeditions to Greece where he experienced the ancient Byzantine church, and its teachings. Clergy-Laity Business Meeting Chairman Vourvoulias convened the business meeting at 9:50 a.m. Through enthusiastic applause the delegates showed overwhelming enjoyment with that morning s speakers. Bill Vranas was called to the podium to summarize the visits to six Metropolis parishes by our paid, independent auditor. These visits were authorized at the past two Metropolis Clergy-Laity conferences. Bill characterized the most common errors as follows: Priests remuneration must be submitted to the IRS on a W-2, not a The submittal must include the housing allowance and any stipend for automobiles. Some church employees, i.e. chanters, secretaries, sextons, choir directors, or organists, had not received either a W-2 or a 1099.

59 Vendors, e.g. landscapers, substitute priests, given more than $600 per year must get a Use the W-2G for any raffle or prize winners. Employees should be covered by Workman s Comp. Checks should never be written to Cash Priests should never be signing checks, even as a second signatory. Findings have been forwarded to the Archdiocese and plans are to distribute Lessons Learned to all parishes. Chairman Vourvoulias asked for volunteers, three clergy and three lay, each to have one member unfamiliar with finance/accounting, to form a committee to address the subtleties of tax law as it applies to our parishes and then report back ASAP. Nominations to Councils Ballots were distributed to delegates. The Archdiocesan Council ballot included eight (8) lay nominees and one (1) nominee from the clergy. The Metropolis Council ballot included twenty-two (22) lay nominees and eight (8) clergy nominees. National Ministries Allocation Because of its importance in funding our Archdiocesan ministries and the continuous turnover of parish personnel, Tom Kanelos provided an overview of the data submittal process. A clarification form with definitions and common errors was distributed. Tom noted that: Forms must be accompanied by the parish balance sheet and income statement. ALL income and ALL expenditures must be listed. A definition of what deductions are allowable was explained. The definition of fund raiser is given a wide berth, e.g. expenses for the annual Christmas card to the parish is deductible as it asks for donations. These deductions reflect what is important to our parishes, e.g. evangelism, religious education, ministries, gifts to the Patriarchate, etc. George Matthews, our guest from the Atlanta Metropolis, said that the intent is to have a fair basis for National Ministries. His Grace further noted that the current system is the least labor intensive and most equitable of any past process. Tom urged everyone to contact the Metropolis if they are unsure of their submittal. Before concluding, His Grace plugged two upcoming events: the Metropolis Philoptochos is sponsoring the feast day of SS Cosmas & Damianos on Oct. 31 st at St. Demetrios Church in Elmhurst; and an exhibit of Modern Greek Architecture in Istanbul to be held at Loyola University on Sunday, November 10 th.

60 Lunch was served at 12:30 p.m. and afterwards, entertainment was provided motivational speaker, humorist, and author Jenny Herrick. A Philoptochos side trip and tour was undertaken at 2:30 p.m. Assembly Workshops In addition to a repeat of the three workshops held yesterday, a fourth was added regarding substance abuse, all beginning at approximately 2:45 p.m. WORKSHOP Missionary Media: Using media to fulfill our purpose Protecting God s Gift: The environment Strategic Planning for the Orthodox Parish Substance Prevention Among Youth PRESENTER Fr. Chris Metropulos Dr. George Nassos Mr. George Matthews Ms. Trbuhovich, Dr. Razzano, & Fr. Athanasios Papagiannis Clergy-Laity Business Meeting (cont.) The business meeting re-convened at 4:45 p.m. Chairman Vourvoulias asked for volunteers, once again consisting of three (3) clergy and three (3) lay representatives to study the issue of declining stewardship in our parishes, a subject that was neglected from the 2011 conference. Council Elections: Metropolis Council The following were elected: Lay Tom Kanelos, Paul Lillios, Peter Patsavis, Harold Peponis, Maria Schultz, Ted Sepsis, George Vourvoulias, and Bill Vranas Clergy Fr. Timothy Bakakos, Fr. Michael Constantinides, Fr. James Greanias, Fr. Nick Jonas, Fr. John Kalomas, Fr. Demetrios Kounavis, Fr. Christodoulos Margellos, Fr. Paul Paris Archdiocesan Council The following were elected: Tom Kanelos & Harold Peponis (Lay) and Fr. James Dokos (Clergy) Resolutions Resolution #1 Tom Kanelos, St. Haralambos, Niles, suggested a resolution, or if more appropriate, a statement, expressing support for our Orthodox brothers being persecuted in the Middle East. His Grace Bishop Demetrios noted that at the recent meeting of the Assembly of Canonical Bishops of North and Central America such a

61 resolution was passed, although it was meant to apply to all persons. His Grace then read the resolution to the attendees. Mr. Kanelos then turned his suggestion into a motion: That the Metropolis of Chicago Clergy-Laity Conference duly convened in Sioux City, Iowa, affirm and espouse the statement issued by the Assembly of Canonical Bishops of North and Central America. The motion was seconded and passed overwhelmingly. It was suggested that His Grace, in consultation with His Eminence, decide the best means to publicize the statement. Resolution #2 A resolution was then read from the delegate from St. Nicholas, Oak Lawn, Peter Patsavis: That at a duly constituted General Assembly, we, the Parish of St. Nicholas in Oak Lawn, Illinois, hereby request that the current expense-based formula be changed to one which, using the same formula, calculates the allocation using income. The rationale helps those parishes which were facilitized for a parishioner base that is now far in excess of today s numbers. A motion to adopt the resolution was seconded allowing discussion. Debate then followed with the most prevailing argument being against the motion and stating that while no system is perfect, the current expense-based process is predictable, cannot be gamed as much as the previous system, is less labor intensive, and is equitable. A hand vote showed 16 for and 28 against. The motion failed. Resolution #3 Tom Kanelos, recognizing that given the reduction in baptisms and marriages our church faces, a long-postponed study must be undertaken by the Archdiocese. The chair suggested that such an idea be submitted through Mr. George Matthews to the Archdiocese. Resolution #4 In his resolution, Fr. Mark Munoz thanked the Parish of Holy Trinity for hosting this Conference, and acknowledged the hard work of the new priest, Fr. Demetri Tobias, Mrs. Maria Schultz, and their committee. The resolution was enthusiastically passed. Before adjourning, Chairman Vourvoulias reminded the attendees that Effie Marie Smith would be on-hand Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. to offer a Parish Data seminar. Greg Kantares moved that the meeting be adjourned, and with an appropriate second, the meeting concluded at 5:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Michael E. Ferretti Secretary

62 i The following reports were not the subject of discussion but rather were included in the delegate package: the Metropolis Financial Statement, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Financial Statement, the Chicago Clergy Syndesmos Report, the Ladies Philoptochos Society Report, the Sisterhood of Presbyteres Report, the Archon Regional Commander Report, the Orthodox Religious Education Report, the Metropolis Youth & Young Adult Report, the Junior Olympics Financial Report, the report from the Orthodox Christian Alumni of Illinois, the Philoxenia Report, the report from the Martha & Mary Maternity House, the SS Peter & Paul Divorce Rebuilders Report, the report on Parish Renewal, Outreach, and Evangelism, the Orthodox Missions Report, and the report from the Greek Orthodox Church Musicians.

63 Minutes of Priest s and President s Meeting Marina Inn and Conference Center October 2, 2013 South Sioux City, NE The meeting of Priests and Parish Council Presidents, was called to order at 5:20 p.m. by George Vourvoulias Jr., Metropolis Council Vice Chairman and Conference Coordinator The opening prayer offered by His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago. The Minutes of the October 5-8, 2011 Clergy/Laity/Philoptochos Assembly and the Special Clergy /Laity Assembly of Dec. 8, 2012, were read and reviewed. A motion was offered by Byron Zotaly, to accept the minutes as presented and a second by Rev. Father James Dokos. Motion carried unanimously. Chairman Vourvoulias discussed the protocol for setting the Parish Allocations based on the information provided for review by the respective parishes of the Metropolis and that the allocations would be sent to the parishes following the Assembly. Mr. Vourvoulias presented Bill J. Vranas, Board President of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, to inform the Priests and Presidents gathering, concerning a motion made at the July 17, 2013 meeting of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board, to request an extension of the parish allocations supporting the retreat center for another two years. A discussion followed regarding the amounts of the allocations and Mr. Vranas explained that the allocations would be distributed percentage wise in the same ratio as the assessments payable to the Archdiocese and should be approximately the same as the last allocation of 88% of one month s assessment to each parish. Ted Vrehos, St. Demetrios, Hammond, IN. questioned expenses of the center after operations begin. Mr. Vranas responded that five weeks of Fanari Summer Camp and weekend bookings are estimated to be the break even point in costs for operation of the facility. Frank Lagouros, All Saints Church, Peoria, IL inquired as to a presentation of costs for food, housing etc. Mr. Vranas responded that all projections currently are the same as provided in the pro-forma budget presented at the Special Clergy/Laity Assembly last December. At this point analyses of stewardship contribution reports were distributed to the parish representatives. The data provided covered the years for the communities of the Metropolis of Chicago.

64 Page 2 Mr. Vranas as treasurer of the Metropolis then reported on recommendations arising out of the reviews of the six parishes conducted by the Finance Committee last year: Importance of reporting compensation to priest, employees and independent contractors under the proper Internal Revenue Service requirements and the Importance of parish accounts being administered by the parish council and clergy should not have signatory responsibilities for any parish accounts. Mr. Vranas suggested that a committee be established to examine the issue of strategic planning, and present recommendations at a future metropolis conference. Chairman Vourvoulias commented on the importance of uniform practice in the preparation of reporting forms by the parishes and suggested invoking a 25% penalty in assessments to parishes failing to present their reports in a timely fashion. Tom Kanelos presented supporting commentary on the issue at hand. The Chairman further commented on the matter of attendance at Clergy/Laity/Philoptochos Assemblies, stressing the responsibility for attendance as stated in the Uniform Parish Regulations of the Archdiocese Subsequent comments were made concerning the scheduling of dates for Clergy/Laity/ Philoptochos Assemblies of the Metropolis and the necessity to consider limiting sacraments by the parishes during the dates of the assemblies. Mr. Vourvoulias indicated he would dialog with priests, parish council presidents, Philoptochos representatives to examine the matter and present recommendations to the assembly for consideration regarding proper scheduling of sacraments for future assemblies. He also would contact the Archons and seek their active involvement. Chairman Vourvouias then introduced His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago for his comments. His Eminence welcomed all to the Assembly, stressing the importance of Metropolis Assemblies, as a convocation of the families of God, sharing our faith and traditions and exchanging ideas that will bring beneficial results for all.

65 Page 3 His Eminence commended the Community of Holy Trinity of Sioux City, Iowa, for their dedication and hospitality, making this conference a positive, enjoyable exchange of ideas and experience, eagerly growing the Church and respecting the canonical order of the Church. There being no further business to be transacted, the meeting was adjourned by the chairman at 6:30 P.M. with a closing prayer by His Eminence. Respectfully submitted, Harold A. Peponis, Secretary Pro-Tem

66 Minutes of the Meeting of the Metropolis of Chicago Council Marina Inn and Conference Center South Sioux City, NE October 2, 2013 The meeting was called to order by George Vourvoulias, Vice- Chairman of the council at 8:45 p.m. Mr. Vourvoulias stated that the purpose of the meeting was to consider the proposal of the Saint Iakovos Retreat Center Board of Directors to extend the Metropolis Parish allocations in support of the Retreat Center for another two years. The total allocation request was to be in the amount of $200,000. Mr. Bill J. Vranas, President of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board of Directors, commented that while the assessment to the communities has been in the area of 88% of one month s current allocations, final figures are not currently known for the future period. It was moved by Byron Zotaly, seconded by Rev. Father James Greanias that the Metropolis Council approve the St. Iakovos Retreat Center request, to extend the parish allocation of $200,000 for the next two years. Discussion followed; Kosmas Pablecas inquired about the monthly mortgage expense of the center. Mr. Vranas responded that, while previously y having been presented and considered, he would present the data to Mr. Pablecas for his edification. Chairmen George Vourvoulias called for the vote. The motion carried unanimously. On a motion by Bill J. Vranas, seconded by Rev. Father John Kalomas, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Harold A. Peponis, Secretary Pro-Tem

67 NIKA House A great place to live, study, and form lasting relationships Report NIKA House NIKA House (aka Orthodox Christian Student Living Center) is located on the campus of the University of Illinois, Champaign. It is owned and operated by the Orthodox Christian Alumni in Action (OCAA). It provides single rooms for 16 students and is the home of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) on the campus. NIKA House is a Private Certified Housing facility of the university, and therefore is opened to freshmen. Although originally a co-ed house, it has been an all-male residence for the past 3 years.

68 2015 NIKA House Highlights 15 residents for Fall Semester; including students from Alaska and Connecticut and Colombia, SA 6 residents majoring in Physics, 1 in chemistry, 1 in computer engineering, 1 in computer science, and 1 in engineering 2nd languages spoken: Arabic, Russian, Serbian, Romanian, Spanish, Mongolian, and Vietnamese NIKA House/OCF Welcome BBQ on Quad Day 80+ students attended Welcome luncheon at Three Hierarchs for NIKA House residents and OCF members OCF weekly Tuesday meetings at NIKA House off to a great start: Fr. Michael Condos of Three Hierarchs leading a study of the Gospel of Mark with students leading discussions on topics of their choosing on alternate Tuesdays. Averaging 25+ students in attendance Visit by Assumption Church School, Chicago, performing # 89 of their 90 Acts of Kindness Saturday Brunch with guest speaker, Dr. Richard England of Eastern Illinois University and a member of Three Hierarchs, on the topic Religion and Science The Sax Pistols, NIKA House s own band, entertains at Welcome BBQ and plays for Three Hierarchs Food Festival; will also play for the Private Certified Housing Winter Festival OCF Fall Retreat with guest speaker the Rev. Anastasios Theodoropoulos and Presbytera Elizabeth, both graduates of the university. Topic of discusssion Vocation NIKA House residents cook for a fundraising breakfast at Three Hierarchs

69 Repairs and Improvements Basement water heater replaced Living room carpeted Comcast cable installed Security cameras installed Weight room/exercise room created North exit door crash bar replaced; numerous door handles and locks repaired or replaced 2 beds and 3 box springs replaced Emergency lights replaced as needed, outdoor lights replaced with LED fixtures, all 24/7 interior lights replaced with LEDs Steam tables purchased and wired; hand sink installed; commercial refrigerator purchased; new chairs purchased for dining room; stove hood professionally cleaned; grease trap emptied Landscaping done to improve grade on west side of building Following painting projects completed: 4 residents rooms, library, weight room, chapel, 3rd floor hallway and bathroom, outdoor storage shed, and east door porch Fire alarms, fire sprinkler system, and fire extingishers inspected annually; entire building inspected annually by building inspector of city of Champaign Water damage caused by accidental fire sprinkler being set off repaired; covered by Church Mutual, deductible paid for by resident s personal insurance Food service for NIKA House started: Hendrick House Catering now delivers hot evening meals, cold breakfasts, freshly baked pasteries, and a Saturday morning brunch NIKA House kitchen/dining room permitted by Champaign Public Health District

70 Thanks We thank the following parishes for their support: Assumption (Chicago), Holy Taxiarchai - St. Haralambos (Niles), St. Nectarios (Oak Lawn), S.S. Peter and Paul (Glenview), St. John the Baptist (Des Plaines), St. Anthony (Springfield), and Three Hierarchs (Champaign). Thanks to the members of the OCAA, especially those who are sustaining members. We remember Joseph Corbett, a member of Three Hierarchs, who gave over $35,000 to keep the house open. May his memory be eternal. We thank the parishioners of Three Hierarchs, residents of NIKA House, and members of the OCF, who volunteer to assist in the maintenance of the property. Special thanks to the Church School of Assumption (Chicago) and to Maria, Panagiota, and Yianni Laros of Three Hierarchs, who faithfully keep the lawn mowed. Foti Kutil, House Manager Board Financials 2014 Financials 2015 (to date) His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Rev. Fr. Michael Condos (Spiritual Father/ Advisor), Rev. Dn. Chris Avramopoulos, Lou Laros, James Nickolas, Peter Patsavas, Foti Kutil, Eleni Apostolopoulos, Maria Cucuras, Thomas N. Kanelos, Alex Magerko, Philip Neznanov, George P. Nassos, Andrew Pagones, Sara Pessimisis, James Peterson, Omar Rihani INCOME $110,008 room and board $88,885 laundry $593 donations $20,530 INCOME $109,416 room and board $89,703 laundry $752 donations $8,731 insurance payments $10,230 EXPENSES $102,489 mortgage $36,236 property taxes $9,982 utilities $8,964 internet and cable $3,659 insurance $3,120 food service $16,529 other $24,017 EXPENSES 109,363 mortgage $48,048 property taxes $9,818 utilities $11,317 internet and cable $3,846 insurance $2,800 food service $10,440 other $23,067

71 I have surely built you a house of habitation, a settled place where you will dwell in forever 1 Kings 8:13 Although it would be impossible to capture and share everything that has taken place at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center since the last clergy laity, a few of the highlights and memorable occasions need to be shared. The end of 2013 and all of 2014 were filled with construction. Despite the bitterly cold end to that winter, and despite the rain -- and the resulting mud -- in the spring, construction pressed on, allowing the Tomaras Lodge and two cottages to be nearly complete by the year s end. The year 2015 brought the opening of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, the realization of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos dream. Facilities: Tomaras Lodge: The Tomaras Lodge offers individual style accommodations through its 26 guestrooms, which feature two double beds and a private bathroom in each. The Tomaras Lodge is ideal for family and adult ministries, and is also utilized for youth and camp. The main focal point of the Tomaras Lodge is the Great Room, which is complete with a cathedral-style post and beam ceiling, and an indoor/outdoor fireplace overlooking Friendship Lake. The amenities in the Tomaras Lodge include heat, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi throughout the entire building, including the guest rooms. Cafeteria: Located on the lower level of the Tomaras Lodge, our 200-seat cafeteria and commercial kitchen are used to prepare and serve warm homemade meals, many from our own ethnic tradition, and only using the freshest ingredients. The space adjacent to the main Cafe area can also be converted to be up to four meeting rooms, helping St. Iakovos to meet the unique needs of its guests and visitors. Cottages: The two cottages offer communal-style lodging, ideal for youth camps or those seeking a group environment. Each cottage accommodates up to 32 individuals through two sleeping rooms and features a full bathroom, heat, air conditioning, and access Wi-Fi. One of the Cottages has been named the Pappas Cottage after the Grand Benefactor of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, Mr. Theodore Pappas. Additional Facilities: In addition to the new facilities, the Log Lodge, featuring a gathering room and two sleeping rooms, is available for smaller retreats and events. The beautiful chapel, the heart and soul of the entire facility, is available year round for worship, prayer and focused discussion. Activities: On top of the new structural work, the new construction also brought the addition of new activities. The list of activities now includes softball, soccer, basketball, grass volleyball, tennis, wagon rides, an outdoor pool, walking trails (featuring the Proskinitaria), campfires, barn visits, and animal petting Report: Following the conclusion of construction, the month of March brought the Fanari Winter Camping program, which was not only full of joy and excitement at finally being home, it was also the first group that the Retreat Center hosted in its new facilities. Fanari Winter Camp was followed by several retreats from many organizations throughout the Metropolis including the Clergy Syndesmos and multiple GOYA groups. Much of late spring was spent preparing to host the Fanari summer camping program, which would make two large programmatic changes: the

72 first being the move from the previous facility to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, and the second being the move from one large week with over 400 of campers, to four individual weeks with just over 100 campers. In June of 2015, just before the Fanari summer program, the Grand Opening of the new facilities took place. Over 200 clergy and laity from throughout the Metropolis of Chicago joined His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos and His Grace Bishop Demetrios in prayer and worship as the opening of the doors to the new facilities was celebrated. Guests of honor included the late Mr. Chris Tomaras, Great Benefactor of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, and Mr. John Pappas, the son of the Grand Benefactor Mr. Theodore Pappas. On June 15, just days after the historic opening of the Retreat Center, the grounds were found alive again as the Fanari campers and staff moved in for the summer season. Throughout the summer, campers engaged in worship, prayer and exploration of our faith, while sharing in fun and fellowship with each other. The four weeks of camp were a wonderful experience that can be captured in the words of our Lord: Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these (Matthew 19:14). It was evident during the four weeks of camp that through the Fanari Program, the youth of our metropolis drew closer to God and each other at the Retreat Center. Following the eventful and exciting summer, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center remained busy, hosting events throughout the autumn. Community retreats included the Assumption Cathedral from Chicago, the Holy Cross Parish from Justice, and the Sts. Constantine & Helen Cathedral from Merrillville, IN. The Family Synaxis ministry held its annual Labor Day weekend family retreat in September with over 190 participants. The Metropolis Pick-up Your Cross ministry held its annual fall retreat in October for families with youth and young adults with challenges. The fall was also busy with overnight and weekend retreats from many GOYA s, as well as Antiochian Young Adults, and the Armenian Youth. The year of 2015 has been filled with many firsts in the life of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. It has been through the love and support of hundreds of people that this first year has been so memorable. We would like to take this opportunity to say to those who visited, celebrated, prayed, worshiped and retreated with us, Every time I think of you, I thank my God (Philippians 1:30) Plans for 2016: Many exciting retreats and new ministries have already been scheduled for the 2016 calendar year, with announcements and invitations for participation shortly to come. The Fanari winter camp will be here in a few short months, and the Fanari summer camp will be returning for four weeks in June and July. In June, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center will also be the host to a camp for fostered and abandoned youth from the Kenosha area. Additionally, many other Orthodox Jurisdictions will be moving their programs currently running out of other rented facilities to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. Furthermore, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center will also be working with several educational, nonprofit, and religious organizations outside of the Orthodox community. Growth and Staffing: With new facilities come greater staffing needs, and how we fulfilled these needs is worth noting. The Kenosha Achievement Center (The KAC) is a local nonprofit organization that works for and with persons with disabilities, fulfilling two main goals: first, to provide services and programs for people with disabilities out of their various centers; and second, to find employment opportunities and training for persons with disabilities in the local community. The St. Iakovos Retreat Center has partnered with the KAC to assist with food service, janitorial work

73 and housekeeping needs as they arise. This partnership has been a wonderful solution to the staffing needs for the Retreat Center, and it serves as a reflection of the established and important Metropolis Pick Up Your Cross ministry. Greater still, it has been a wonderful witness of our faith to the local community. The Future Plans: The upcoming ministry of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center will continue to include growth in facilities and activities on the property. Capital improvements include the addition of an infirmary (for which funds are currently being raised), and we are hoping to build a large Byzantine chapel. Additionally, we hope to add new activities including boating, swimming, sand volleyball, and a permanent basketball court in In order to achieve these goals, and enhance our ministry to our beloved Metropolis, we will be emphasizing our marketing efforts to increase facility usage throughout the year. How to Get Involved: Scripture states that For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God (Hebrews 3:4), a truth that is evident in the life of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. This gift from our spiritual father to us, his spiritual children, is first and foremost through our Lord and Creator. Additionally, many have given of their time, talent and treasures to build this place for the spiritual rejuvenation of the people and parishes in the Metropolis of Chicago. We would like to recognize all those who have contributed to the establishment and success of this ministry by saying, We thank God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers (1 Thessalonians 1:2). However, this ministry finds its strength in the beautiful community of believers and supporters. For those who are able and willing, here are some ways you can help: Spread the word about our facility to religious, educational, and nonprofit organizations on a grassroots level by telling your friends, colleagues, or organization about us. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools we have! Pray for us! The Retreat Center, its staff, the volunteers, the Board of Directors, construction crews -- everyone would benefit from your prayers as we work to make this facility a reflection of the beauty of God s creation and love for the world. If you are interested in financial contributions to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, including several naming opportunities, please let us know by contacting the office. Volunteer with us! Your time and talents are always appreciated. Please or call the office to find out how you can help. Keep in Touch: The life of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center can be shared in and virtually experienced in various ways. Frequent postings are made on our website and social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and FlickR) regarding the current news, activities and users at the facility. Find us online! Plan Your Retreat or Event: The staff of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center is available to help you plan and organize a retreat or an event in the life of your family, such as a wedding, baptism, or family reunion. Day, overnight, and weekend opportunities are available for parish, community adult, youth and family celebrations. Let the staff of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center help you enjoy faith and fellowship, in a place built for you, where you can engage, experience, and grow. Office@GoSIRC.org You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out Deuteronomy 28:6

74 St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board of Directors Mr. Bill J. Vranas President Mr. John Balourdos Vice President Mr. Nicholas Kirkeles Secretary Mr. Tom Kanelos Treasurer His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos Ex Officio His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos Ex Officio Rev. Fr. James Dokos Rev. Fr. Andrew Georganas Rev. Fr. Nicholas Georgiou Rev. Fr. Jim Greanias Ex Officio Rev. Fr. Chrysanthos Kekeres Rev. Fr. John Ketchum Ex Officio Rev. Fr. Theodore Poteres Dcn. Chris Avramopoulos Ex Officio Mrs.Irene Arsoniadis Ex Officio Mr. Anthony (Fred) Chapekis Mr. John Colis Mr. Brad DeSent Mr. George Haralampopoulos Mr. Nick Karafotias Mr. Ernest Karras Mr. Arthur Labros Mr. Alex Pappas Mr. Ted Pappas Mr. Harold Peponis Mr. Ted Sepsis Mrs. Joan Stavrakas Mr. George Vourvoulias Jr. Past President

75 GREEK ORTHODOX METROPOLIS OF CHICAGO OFFICE OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES METROPOLIS CLERGY-LAITY REPORT ON THE DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES NOVEMBER 15-18, 2015 Hosted by the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church at the Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor s Club, Madison, WI. Rev. Dn. Chris Avramopoulos, Director When we speak of Youth and Young Adult Ministry we first and foremost speak of a relational ministry. This is a relationship with Christ and His Holy Church and a relationship amongst one another. The goal of Orthodox Christian Youth Ministry is the integration of each young person fully into the total life of the Church. This integration is experienced through Worship, Witness, Fellowship and Service. His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS has consistently maintained as one of his top priorities a vibrant outreach and ministry to our Orthodox young people and families. Our Metropolitan s focus is To Bring Our Families and youth to a Living Relationship with Christ and His Holy Church. He is especially concerned that we as Church leaders both clergy and laity focus much of our efforts and attention to the leaders of the present and future our youth and the family as a whole. He has therefore challenged the Metropolis Youth Ministry Office to focus on ways in which we can reach out to the faithful of our Church, and offer support, resources and education on family and youth issues. It is with the above mentioned directives that the Metropolis of Chicago Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries seeks to minister to our Orthodox youth and families throughout the Mid-West in a holistic and Christ Centered manner. The following is a list of ministries that fall under the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. These ministries hope to be continued for years to come and ultimately bring glory to God. 40 East Burton Place, Chicago, IL Telephone: (312) Fax: (312) gochicagoyouth@aol.com website: www. chicago.goarch.org