Archbishop Elpidophoros calls for environmental protection

Archbishop Elpidophoros of America has issued a call to the faithful to reflect on the natural world and commit to protecting and restoring the environment. Marking the new ecclesiastical year and a day of prayer for the protection of the natural environment, the Archbishop emphasized the importance of stewardship for the Earth.

He highlighted the leadership of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, describing him as a ‘green Patriarch’ who emphasizes the relationship between humanity and creation. The Archbishop noted that the Ecumenical Patriarchate promotes a theological view of ecology that addresses the entire Christian world and all spiritual communities.

Referencing devastating wildfires in North America and recent tragedies in Nepal, Elpidophoros pointed to these events as dramatic reminders of the increasing consequences of climate change and the fragile balance of the planet.