NEW YORK — The Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate have announced the appointment of Archon Demetrios J. (Jim) Ziozis as Regional Commander for the Direct Archdiocesan District, serving Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. The appointment was made by Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, National Commander of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and following consultation with the Archbishop.
In his new role, Ziozis joins fellow Regional Commanders Archon Nikiforos Mathews, Esq., and Archon Michael P. Neamonitakis in supporting the mission of the Order of Saint Andrew throughout the Direct Archdiocesan District. He succeeds the late Archon Inspector John V. Kassimatis, who reposed in the Lord on June 14, 2026.
Announcing the appointment, Dr. Limberakis praised Ziozis’ unwavering commitment to the Greek Orthodox Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, describing him as a devoted servant of the Church whose dedication has long extended beyond his formal investiture as an Archon.
“Archon Jim has been an exceptional Archon since the very moment of his investiture in 2019, and for many years before that, a devoted servant of God and His Holy Church,” Dr. Limberakis said. “Together with his beloved wife, Vasiliki, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to our Holy Orthodox Faith and to Hellenism through the generous offering of his time, talent, and treasure.”
Dr. Limberakis also expressed confidence that Ziozis will bring renewed energy and leadership to the region while continuing the legacy of service established by his predecessor.
Accepting the appointment, Ziozis reflected on both the honor and responsibility of the position.
“With profound humility and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, I am honored to accept this appointment and continue my service to the Holy Center of our Orthodox Faith, the Ecumenical Patriarchate,” he said. “The title of Regional Commander is not simply an honorific. It is a great responsibility and a meaningful opportunity to serve our Holy Mother Church of Constantinople. I am humbled and grateful to God to have been considered worthy of this calling.”
A respected leader within the Greek Orthodox and Greek American communities, Ziozis and his wife, Vasiliki, are Founders of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation and active members of Leadership 100. Throughout the years, they have supported numerous initiatives dedicated to strengthening the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, advancing the mission of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of Hellenism.
In recognition of his longstanding dedication to the Church and community, Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church in Port Washington, New York, honored Ziozis with its prestigious Hellenic Heritage Award in March 2025.
Ziozis was invested as an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate on October 20, 2019, receiving the Offikion of Eftaxias.
Under the bylaws of the Order of Saint Andrew, Regional Commanders are appointed annually by the National Commander to represent the National Council within their respective regions. They work to advance the Order’s mission, strengthen support for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and promote initiatives that safeguard the religious freedom and enduring witness of the Mother Church of Constantinople.
The Order of Saint Andrew, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, is composed of distinguished Orthodox Christian lay leaders who have been honored by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for their outstanding service to the Church. Through faith, leadership, philanthropy, and advocacy, the Archons continue to support the Ecumenical Patriarchate and uphold the spiritual values of Orthodox Christianity throughout the world.
This article was prepared by the Hellenic News of America editorial staff based on information provided by The Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
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