The Northeast American Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church was represented at the solemn enthronement of His Eminence Metropolitan Athenagoras as the Metropolitan of New Jersey of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. John the Theologian in Tenafly, New Jersey.
Representing His Eminence Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, Metropolitan of the Northeast American Diocese, were Rev. Fr. Thomas Paul, Diocesan Chancellor, and Rev. Fr. Daniel Mathai, Director of Ecumenical Relations..
During the occasion, Rev. Fr. Daniel Mathai personally conveyed the warm fraternal greetings and prayerful best wishes of Metropolitan Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, together with those of the clergy and faithful of the Northeast American Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, to the newly enthroned Metropolitan Athenagoras.
The enthronement was a joyous occasion of thanksgiving and celebration, bringing together hierarchs, clergy, and faithful to witness the beginning of a new chapter in the pastoral ministry of Metropolitan Athenagoras.
The participation of the Northeast American Diocese reflects its continued commitment to strengthening the bonds of fraternity, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox Churches. Rooted in their shared apostolic heritage and the rich spiritual traditions of the early Church, these relationships provide meaningful opportunities for dialogue, common witness, and collaboration in serving the wider Christian community.
Under the leadership of Metropolitan Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, the Northeast American Diocese remains dedicated to cultivating these relationships, fostering greater understanding, and encouraging closer fellowship between the two Orthodox traditions in North America.
The Northeast American Diocese extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Eminence Metropolitan Athenagoras and offers its fervent prayers that Almighty God may grant him wisdom, strength, and abundant grace as he shepherds the clergy and faithful of the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey.
May his archpastoral ministry be blessed and fruitful for the glory of God and the strengthening of His Holy Church.
About the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Led by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the Archdiocese serves Orthodox Christian communities throughout the nation, preserving the apostolic faith, liturgical traditions, and spiritual heritage of the Orthodox Church. The Metropolis of New Jersey is one of its regional ecclesiastical jurisdictions, serving parishes and faithful across New Jersey and neighboring states.