It gives us great pleasure to invite you to be a part of the historic 33rd Clergy Laity Congress in New York City, June 30 - July 4, 1996. The theme of the Congress "Let us go forward on the road that has brought us where we are," (Philippians 3:16) will give us the inspiration for our gathering and forums.

This unique calling of faithful from throughout the Western Hemisphere, indeed the world, will be an auspicious event as it will mark the last Congress convened by His Eminence Archbishop lakovos, who has indicated His intentions to retire at the end of July. While any Congress is an occasion to showcase our Archdiocese, Her institutions and programs, this Congress will afford us the opportunity to express our appreciation to His Eminence for dedicated, inspirational, and tireless leadership to the Church of America during the past thirty-seven years. At the same time, it will also give His Eminence the forum to behold the dynamic presence of His Flock, whom He has faithfully cultivated and served to the glory of God and his Church.

A magnificent program is being planned for the week, from a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in Central Park to a spectacular observance of the Fourth of July. The entire Congress is a monumental undertaking requiring the effort of countless volunteers and tremendous resources to be able to properly orchestrate the numerous events. Therefore, your timely response in registering will greatly help the planning process.

We are confident that your presence will insure that the 33rd Clergy-Laity Congress will become a milestone for our Holy Archdiocese, marking the close of an important chapter in the life of the Church in America. Let us meet on this "road" that has illumined our Church with countless achievements, as together we commit "to go forward" on this same "road" that illumines our future with hope.

Looking forward to meeting all the representatives from around the country in the "Big Apple," we are with,

Warmest regards,

Peter J. Pappas
Fr. Paul C. Palesty
Congress Chairpersons