Trenton, NJ — On March 23, 2026, His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey delivered the invocation before the New Jersey State Assembly in observance of the New Jersey Statewide Greek Independence Day Flag Raising, marking the 205th anniversary of the Greek Revolution.
The event, held at the New Jersey State House, was sponsored by Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese, the New Jersey Hellenic American Heritage Commission, and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey. Members of the Greek-American community were present in strong representation, including leadership from AHEPA, the Hellenic Federation of New Jersey, the Metropolis Council, and the Daughters of Penelope.
Prior to the Assembly session, His Eminence convened with Consul General of Greece in New York, Iphigenia Kanara, clergy of the Metropolis, and community representatives. The delegation was formally welcomed by New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale G. Caldwell.
The program commenced in the committee chambers with opening remarks by former Ridgefield Councilman James Kontolios, who introduced His Eminence, Consul General Kanara, and Assistant Secretary of State Adel Wilson. Following the invocation delivered by His Eminence, Zenon Christodoulou, Supreme Vice President of AHEPA, offered remarks reflecting on the enduring significance of the Greek Revolution.
Assistant Secretary Adel Wilson presented an official proclamation recognizing Greek Independence Day on behalf of Governor Mikie Sherrill and Lieutenant Governor Caldwell. In his remarks, Wilson emphasized the profound contributions of the Greek-American community to the State of New Jersey, particularly in the areas of education, business, and cultural life.
Consul General Kanara, accepting the proclamation, highlighted the shared democratic foundations of Greece and the United States, noting that “the Greek Revolution drew inspiration from the American Revolution, affirming that power belongs in the hands of the people.” She further underscored the continued alliance between the two nations in today’s global landscape.
In his Independence Day remarks, His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos reflected on the spiritual dimension of the celebration, noting its alignment with the Feast of the Annunciation. “It serves as a sacred reminder,” he stated, “that freedom begins with faith and courage—the courage to say ‘yes’ to God, to truth, and to what is right.”
Following the presentation of the proclamation, the delegation proceeded to the Assembly Chambers, where Speaker Craig J. Coughlin formally introduced His Eminence. Delivering the invocation, Metropolitan Apostolos offered a prayer for wisdom and unity among the state’s elected leaders, asking that their decisions reflect justice and serve the common good.
Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese then presented a resolution honoring the 205th Anniversary of the Greek Revolution, recognizing both the contributions of the Greek-American community and the ongoing work of the Hellenic American Heritage Commission in strengthening ties between Greece and the United States.
Consul General Kanara addressed the Assembly once more, reaffirming the enduring relationship between the two nations and the shared values that continue to unite them.
The program concluded with a cultural performance by the youth of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Trenton, New Jersey, who presented a traditional Greek dance and song, offering a vibrant tribute to Hellenic heritage within the halls of state government.
This meaningful observance served as a powerful reflection of the lasting impact of Greek Independence and the continued presence and contribution of the Greek-American community in New Jersey and beyond.
Please wait...