Greek Independence Day Celebration on March 21 at the Rhode Island State House
His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios participated in the 202nd anniversary of Greek Independence Day Celebration on March 21 at the Rhode Island State House.
The recognition of Greece's Independence and the participation of Rhode Island's Greek American communities was held under the sponsorship of Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, East Greenwich, West Greenwich) in cooperation with the Greek Orthodox Churches of Rhode Island: The Annunciation Church of Cranston, the Assumption Church of Pawtucket and St. Spyridon Church of Newport.
Symeon Tegos, Consul General of Greece to New England and Nicholas Larigakis, President and CEO of the American Hellenic Institute joined representatives of Rhode Island’s Greek Orthodox churches on their visit to the State House. Meron Reuben, Consul General of Israel to New England, also attended.
The celebration began in the Senate chamber where Father Philip Zymaris of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church delivered the opening prayer for the Senate session. A Senate resolution honoring the 202nd anniversary of Greek Independence Day sponsored by Senator Raptakis was introduced and read into the Senate record.
Following the Senate session, Senator Raptakis joined by the Greek dignitaries, the state’s General Officers, fellow legislators and members of Rhode Island’s Greek community celebrated and recognized Greek Independence Day with readings, songs and a keynote speech to be delivered by Nicholas Larigakis.
Metropolitan Methodios offered the Invocation, Benediction, and Closing Remarks at the Celebration.
Following the event at the State House, a reception was held at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Pawtucket.
