Deacon Gregory Gatanas Ordained to the Holy Priesthood in Brookville, New York

The church overflowed with his family, friends, and members of the greater New York Community, who gathered to witness the ordination. For years, Gregory Gatanas has served the faithful, starting from St. Nicholas of Flushing to deacon and pastoral assistant at Holy Resurrection, and this moment marked a major milestone in his life and journey of service within the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, alongside Presbytera Eleftheria, daughter of Protopresbyter, Panteleimon Papadopoulos, of the Holy Resurrection in Brookville, New York.

Archbishop Elpidoforos delivered a heartfelt address during the ordination, urging the newly ordained priest to ground his ministry in prayer, humility, and love. He reminded Father Gregory that the priesthood is not about drawing attention to oneself but about extending compassion and spiritual care to others. His words emphasized the importance of serving with devotion, following the example of Saint Nektarios, whose life was dedicated to caring for the spiritual needs of the faithful. He also mentioned the work ahead for Presbytera Eleftheria. (Orthodox Observer).

Following his ordination, Father Gregory was assigned to work at Saint Sophia Cathedral in Washington, D.C.This new chapter marks an expansion of his duties and responsibilities within the Church, as he takes on the full sacramental role of a priest. Attendees at the service were moved by the ceremony and praised Father Gatanas’ dedication and hard work that led up to this day. His parents, Michael and Maria Gatanas, along with his siblings, Yanna and Stella, and whole family, played a vital role in supporting Father Gregory from his youth, beginning with the moment he shared his decision to enter the priesthood.

The ordination of Father Gregory Gatanas stands as a powerful testament to his commitment to the Orthodox Christian faith and to serving others, and most of all an inspiration for men thinking of entering the priesthood. As he assumes his new role, those close to him say they are confident he will bring compassion, wisdom, and heartfelt devotion to his work in Washington and beyond. (Orthodox Observer).

Source: https://orthodoxobserver.org/gregory-gatanas-ordination/

Picture Credit: D.Panagos