Archbishop Elpidophoros Throws First Pitch at Yankee Stadium in Yankees Jersey
Archbishop Elpidophoros of America threw the ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, wearing a New York Yankees jersey in front of a crowd of Greek Orthodox faithful and members of the New York Greek diaspora.
The event was part of what organizers called "Greek Jersey Night," during which the Yankees' iconic stadium hosted a celebration of Greek heritage, Orthodox faith, and community ahead of the New York Yankees vs. Chicago White Sox game. The Archbishop was accompanied on the field by Fr. Andreas Villi, Chancellor of the Direct Archdiocesan District, along with Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Mike Neomoniakis and Bill Grouse.
Attendees raised over $37,000 for the camping ministry, which expects to host more than 800 young Greek Americans this summer.
Beyond the ceremonial pitch, the evening had a charitable component. Attendees raised over $37,000 for the camping ministry of the Direct Archdiocesan District, which is marking its 21st year of operation this year and expects to host more than 800 young Greek Americans over the coming summer.
The event drew an enthusiastic response from the crowd gathered at the stadium, which was dressed in blue and white for the occasion, reflecting the colors of the Greek flag.
