With Gratitude
Father David G. Bissias, May 17, 2009

On this day, His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos presides at the Holy Eucharist and I am greatly honored to stand before him, our spiritual father, having served this Holy Metropolis for fifteen years as presbyter. It is with deepest appreciation to my parish family here at Saint Demetrios that this occasion is marked by a special luncheon hosted by our Philoptochos Society and served by our Parish Council.

A parish priest stands in his place on behalf of the chief pastor of the local Church, his bishop. Ordained by the hand of Metropolitan Iakovos, I have always sought to serve according to the many talents bestowed on me by the Lord first; and by family, instructors, mentors and my own spiritual father. But the successes and stewardship of my ministry would not be possible but for the many dedicated persons serving the Church in so many ways: Parish Council members, Philoptochos members, our Outreach Committee Chair and Ministry Team Leaders, our Choir, Chanter, Naokoros, Altar Attendants, youth advisors, Church School staff members and our Greek School teacher. Beyond these persons who directly assist in leading the life of this parish are the many, many persons who have contributed in particular and special ways to my own ministry through their support and friendship over the many years, here in Hammond, as well as in Milwaukee and throughout the Metropolis of Chicago.

An honor to a Parish Priest must only be an honor for those he serves, and to all those I have been graced to serve these fifteen years, I offer my continual prayers, blessings and thanksgiving.