Chicago, August 22, 2024
Photo: goarch.org
Archbishop Elpidophoros of the Patriarchate of Constantinople’s Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America offered the invocation at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Tuesday, August 20.
The GOARCH report notes that Abp. Elpidophoros’ prayer “continues the long-standing, traditional invitation for the Archbishop of America to give an invocation at both Republican and Democratic party conventions prior to the presidential election.” He also offered a benediction at the Republican National Convention 
Greek Archbishop Elpidophoros offers benediction at Republican National ConventionThe prayer has caused debate online, with some Orthodox Christians criticizing the Archbishop for making no explicit mention or invocation of Christ or the Holy Trinity, and others noting that the RNC is not an Orthodox worship service and not only for Orthodox Christians.
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The Archbishop prayed:
Let us pray to the Lord:
Eternal and ever-living God, source of goodness and grace: we come before You, seeking Your Heavenly benediction upon this Democratic National Convention.
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.
Grant unto the delegates to engage with their fellow citizens in a spirit of joy and duty, always seeking the best for our country.
We also ask 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 of the United States.
Finally, we ask that You protect and defend the armed forces who protect and defend us, so that in peace and security we may offer to You, the One True God, the praise that is Your due.
Amen!
A reception was also held in honor of Abp. Elpidophoros, attended by various Senators, Congressmen, ambassadors, and other political figures.
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