Each Clergy-Laity Congress reminds us of what is possible when clergy and laity come together in service to Christ and His Church. This year's gathering, centered on the theme "Rise and Build," brought together thousands of faithful to worship, deliberate, learn, and celebrate the vibrant ministries of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

In his keynote address, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros reflected on Nehemiah, reminding delegates that Jerusalem's walls were rebuilt because every member of the community accepted responsibility for the work before them. Calling the Church to "rise and build," he emphasized that clergy and laity strengthen the Church when they labor together with "one voice and one heart." His message challenged every Orthodox Christian to embrace faithful stewardship of the ministries, institutions, and people entrusted to our care—a mission that has guided Leadership 100 for more than four decades.

For Leadership 100, Clergy-Laity Congress provided an opportunity to reconnect with members while showcasing the lasting impact of their generosity across the Archdiocese. The Ministry Showcase highlighted ministries supported through Leadership 100 grants, from youth leadership development and religious education to family ministries, evangelism, military chaplaincy, seminarian formation, outreach, and missions. Together, these ministries reflected a shared purpose: strengthening Orthodox Christianity across America.

Throughout the week, members reconnected with friends, spoke with prospective members, and learn about current initiatives. These conversations reinforced that Leadership 100 is more than a grantmaking organization - it is a community of faithful Orthodox Christians committed to ensuring the ministries of the Archdiocese flourish for generations to come.

The impact of philanthropy was evident throughout the Clergy-Laity Congress. Many of the ministries showcased continue to grow because of the faithful generosity of Leadership 100 members, supporting the next generation of Orthodox leaders, strengthening families and parishes, expanding outreach, and responding to emerging needs across the Archdiocese.

Archbishop Elpidophoros also recognized Leadership 100's enduring role in the life of the Church. He highlighted the organization's more than 1,400 members and nearly $90 million in grantmaking, supporting initiatives including clergy leadership development, parish planned giving, Ionian Village, youth camping ministries, liturgical resources, and innovative national ministries. His remarks underscored an enduring truth: when faithful Orthodox Christians invest in the Church's mission, they strengthen ministries today while building a foundation for future generations.

The Clergy-Laity Congress also reminded us that ministry is ultimately about people. Behind every grant is a seminarian preparing for ordination, a young adult deepening their faith, a family finding support through parish life, or a ministry leader equipped to serve their community. These are lives transformed through the faithful stewardship of Leadership 100 members.

As the Clergy-Laity Congress concluded, attendees returned home with renewed purpose. Inspired by the Archbishop's call to "Rise and Build," Leadership 100 remains committed to funding innovative ministries, supporting the strategic priorities of the Archdiocese, and helping Orthodox Christianity continue to thrive across America.

We thank every Leadership 100 member who attended the Clergy-Laity Congress, and continues to support this mission. Together, we are proud to serve as Major Benefactors of the Clergy-Laity Congress - advancing Orthodoxy, strengthening the Church, and helping to "Rise and Build" a faithful future for generations to come.