Metropolitan Methodios Visits Holy Apostles Parish, Celebrates Basketball League Banquet, and Attends Diplomats Seder

           On Sunday, March 30, His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios presided at the Holy Apostles Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Haverhill, MA. Fr. Makarios Niakaros and the entire parish community warmly welcoming His Eminence.

          Following his visit, Metropolitan Methodios attended the annual basketball banquet in Lynn, MA, marking the conclusion of the Metropolis of Boston Youth Basketball League season. Over 400 players, parents, coaches, and guests gathered to celebrate a successful season, reflecting on the dedication and sportsmanship displayed throughout the league. Special thanks were extended to St. George Parish in Lynn for hosting the event. Awards and acknowledgments were presented to distinguished players and coaches, recognizing their commitment and achievements. His Eminence thanked Panos Coufos, the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, and thc

          Later in the evening, Metropolitan Methodios attended the American Jewish Committee of New England’s 2025 Diplomats Seder. This esteemed annual event unites members of the New England Consular Corps, civic leaders, and community members for a uniquely Jewish experience. Led by Rabbi Dan Judson, the Seder utilized ritual, music, food, and meaningful discussions to commemorate the 3,000-year-old story of the ancient Hebrew people's journey to freedom.

          At a time when antisemitism and various forms of bigotry continue to challenge society, the Diplomats Seder provided a vital opportunity to reflect on historical struggles and explore contemporary issues of oppression and freedom. The gathering emphasized the importance of solidarity, understanding, and collective action in addressing modern societal challenges.

          Metropolitan Methodios offered the Benediction (included below), highlighting the shared values of faith, perseverance, and justice that connect diverse communities. He underscored the role of interfaith dialogue in fostering peace and understanding, reinforcing the evening’s theme of unity.

          Symeon Tegos, Consul General of Greece in Boston, offered the Diplomatic Response, acknowledging the deep historical and cultural connections between the Greek and Jewish peoples. He spoke on the importance of international cooperation in promoting religious freedom and human dignity, reaffirming Greece’s commitment to combating antisemitism and all forms of hatred.

          The event served as a reminder of the power of traditions to bridge divides and inspire collective action toward a more just and inclusive society.

Almighty God, King of the universe Who sustains the world with goodness, grace, loving kindness, and compassion. Whose grace is everlasting. As this evening's program draws to a close, we will pause to reflect on the many blessings we shared tonight... For family, for friendship and for the gift of life. May the food we enjoyed nourish our bodies and may You, invisibly present among us, continue to nourish our souls. We are grateful for the opportunity we had to gather in the spirit of freedom and remembrance as we prepare for Passover. We pray tonight for our brethren, the hostages, and their families.

May the stories of resilience and liberation inspire all of us to champion justice and kindness. May the lessons treasured in the Old Testament Book of Psalms and Book of Exodus inspire us to seek peace. To extend compassion to one another. To strive for a world where every individual is free to live with dignity and hope. We give thanks for the bonds of friendship, family, and community that have been strengthened tonight. When we part this evening, may we take with us the light of this gathering - a light that guides us toward truth, love, and the shared pursuit for a better tomorrow.

Blessed are You who brought us together Almighty God in unity and purpose. Amen.