TheLeader_VOLUME_XXVII_ISSUE1_Spring2026 - Flipbook - Page 23
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY OBSERVED
Greek American Community Observes Greek Independence Day at White House.
foreign empire in 1821 … they in turn looked to a place
called America,” President Trump said. “Ever since, the
United States and the Hellenic Republic have stood sideby-side as two proud and thriving nations upholding the
Western traditions born in Greece more than 2,000 years
ago.”
His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America
offered remarks in response to President Trump꞉ “The
annual celebration here at the White House, now in its
40th year, is not only prestigious but binds America and
Greece together in a strategic alliance that goes beyond
deep friendship and mutual respect,” Archbishop
Elpidophoros said. “Especially in this most significant
year of 2026, when America observes its 250th
anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and
Greece commemorates its 205th year since its own
assertion of liberty and justice for all–all Americans are
rejoicing over this noble experiment in self-governance.”
His Eminence also thanked President Trump for his
“unwavering support” of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of
Constantinople, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch
Bartholomew, and the ongoing effort to reopen the
Theological School of Halki, as well as for his support of
Greece and the cause of justice in Cyprus.
The Archbishop closed his remarks with the Prayer of
Saint Basil the Great, asking all those present to join him
in Praying for America, the President, the people who
serve America and all citizens.
Also present was U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly
Guilfoyle; special recognition was likewise accorded to
Archdiocesan Council Vice Chairman John Catsimatidis
and his wife, Margo, who are members of Leadership
100, with John serving on the Executive Committee.
President Trump issued a proclamation recognizing
March 25 Greek Independence Day as a National Day of
Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.
Article courtesy of the Orthodox Observer.
Photo꞉ Dimtrios Panagos
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