A Unique Greek Independence Day Celebration in Detroit
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April 11, 2025
This past Sunday, April 6, was an historic day for the Metropolis of Detroit, the Annunciation Cathedral, and the entire Greek Orthodox community. His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit and the Cathedral joyfully welcomed His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, His Eminence Metropolitan Maximos of Ioannina (in northern Greece), and the Presidential Guard of Greece (the “Evzones”). These three overlapping visitations amplified the joy and festive spirit of a weekend that traditionally energizes and uplifts downtown Detroit. Metropolitan Maximos of Ioannina was given the honor of presiding at the Divine Liturgy held at the Annunciation Cathedral. At the conclusion, the Metropolitan presented the Cathedral community with a special gift: a portion of the sacred relics of St. George the New Martyr of Ioannina. With the Greek Presidential Guard and many dignitaries present, Archbishop Elpidophoros lead the prayers of Doxology for Greek Independence Day, assisted by our own Metropolitan Nicholas, and the visiting Metropolitan of Ioannina. For those in attendance it was a particularly moving and unique celebration of freedom of the Greek Nation and expression of Orthodox Christian faith. The Greek Independence Day Parade itself was a beautiful celebration with over 30 enthusiastic church communities, Greek societies & associations, and various groups participating. Among the dignitaries present were the three aforementioned Hierarchs, the Consul of Greece in Chicago Georgia Tasiopoulou, the Presidential Guard of Greece (“Evzones”), Detroit Parade organizers, and representatives from the City of Detroit. The ongoing construction and closure of Monroe Street, the heart of Greektown, may have altered the typical Parade route, but it certainly did not dampen the spirit.
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