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Archbishop Iakovos Reminisces About Cathedral Days

Rye, NY -- In an interview conducted at his residence in Rye, NY, Archbishop Iakovos reminisced about his 13 years (1942-55) as Dean of the Annunciation Cathedral in Boston.  The interview was conducted in preparation for the Cathedral's 100th Anniversary celebration, to be held during the year 2003. Interviewing the Archbishop are James P. Lemonias, Chairman, and Dr. Marcia Arvanites, Co-Chair, who also discussed the complete Centennial plans.

The following represents highlights of Archbishop Iakovos' tenure as Dean of the Cathedral.

The Cathedral experienced new problems and challenges and immediately following World War II.  At this critical period in its history, it was fortunate to have Rev. James A. Coucouzes become its Dean. Upon his graduation from the Halki Theological School in Turkey, Fr. Coucouzes came to the United States as Deacon. Under the tutelage of Bishop Cavadas, at the Theological School in Pomfret, CT, he gained invaluable experience through pastoral assignments and contact with seminarians. This background provided Fr. Coucouzes with the training and background for the challenging tasks during and immediately following the War.

"Fr. James," "Pater," or "Fr. Jake," as he was fondly known by his flock at the Cathedral, organized various war relief efforts including the Greek War Relief, selling War Bonds, and promoting participation in the Red Cross.  Servicemen and women were provided prayer books and other religious items, parcels were mailed, and special services held. The Cathedral served as the center of life for the Community during this difficult period.

The post-war era created different ministry demands for the Cathedral.  Under Fr. Coucouzes' inspirational leadership, many new programs were organized for the youth and for those returning from the service. A Cathedral Youth Organization was revitalized, eventually leading to the formation, on a national level, of GOYA -- the Greek Orthodox Youth of America. Sunday School became a model for many Greek Orthodox churches.  A Sunday Evening Vesper Program was instituted for youth in the Boston area, which included Orthodox students attending area colleges and universities. The Program of prayer and worship, fellowship and discussions of various issues provided spiritual and intellectual stimulation for a generation of young people. This Program developed into the formation of an Orthodox Christian Fellowship for Orthodox students enrolled in area colleges and universities.

In his efforts to improve the quality of education in the Greek schools that had proliferated in various areas of greater Boston, Fr. Coucouzes successfully united the independently functioning schools into the United Greek Schools System under the administrative authority and control of the Cathedral.

Fr. Coucouzes strongly believed the Cathedral's future depended on young people involved in its administration. Many promising young people were encouraged to join the Cathedral's Board of Trustees. Under their guidance, increased activities for the youth were instituted including athletic programs and tournaments.

Fr. Coucouzes' exceptional talents and qualities were recognized by Patriarch Athenagoras. In 1951, he was elevated to bishop, preparing him for greater responsibilities in the Church hierarchy. After being ordained Bishop of Melita in 1955, he was assigned to the Patriarch's headquarters at the World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland. In 1958, he was elected Archbishop of North and South America and fulfilled the dreams and expectations of his beloved Cathedral communicants and the faithful throughout America. During Archbishop Iakovos' thirty-seven years as spiritual head of the Greek Orthodox Church of North and South America, the Church experienced unprecedented and impressive results and brought an increased sense of identity to its mission.

Archbishop Iakovos' personal remarks were captured on a video including other historical events to be shown during several scheduled Centennial events. To honor and share in the Cathedral's glorious past, a host of religious and political dignitaries, former parishioners and friends, are expected to attend and relive their memorable experiences while visiting or growing up in the Cathedral Community.

Those interested in being part of this historical event should make their interests known by calling the Cathedral Office at (617)731-6633, FAX (617) 730-2978, or by e-mail acoffice@gis.net.

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