Archbishop Elpidophoros of America delivered a benediction on Tuesday, August 20, at the 2024 Democratic National Convention held in Chicago, Illinois.
It is a long-standing tradition that the Archbishop of America in invited to give an invocation at both Republican and Democratic party conventions prior to the presidential election.
Archbishop Elpidophoros’ prayer at Democratic National Convention
Archbishop Elpidophoros prayed that “our Eternal and Ever-Living God, Source of goodness and grace, grant unto the nominee for President of these United States, Vice President Kamala Harris, and her running mate, Governor Tim Walz, to pursue the highest offices in the Land with love, with hope, and with faith in our Nation” and to “grant unto the Delegates to engage with their fellow citizens in a spirit of joy and duty, always seeking the best for our country.”
His Eminence also asked for “special blessings upon President Joseph R. Biden, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and all their family; for he has given a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the American People, and has stood with nobility and integrity upon the international stage to lead in the best traditions of the United States.”
Reception in honour of Archbishop Elpidophoros
The benediction of the Democratic National Convention by Archbishop Elpidophoros was followed by an address from former U.S. President Barack Obama, who had previously expressed his endorsement of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris in July.
Additionally, a reception was held in honor of Archbishop Elpidophoros.
Notable guests included Senator Chris Coons; Senator Chris Van Hollen; Congressman John Sarbanes; Congresswoman Dina Titus; Congressman Chris Pappas; California Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis; Former Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama Tina Tchen; and NY State Senator Mike Gianaris.
The event also welcomed Ambassador of Greece to the U.S. Ekaterini Nassika; Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the U.S. Evangelos Savva; prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist Dennis Mehiel; president of Manatos & Manatos Mike Manatos; His Grace Bishop Timothy of Hexamilion; and Fr. Alex Karloutsos, Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne.
