Dean of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of

Fr. Parsenios did not respond to their efforts to communicate. (Photo by Caleb Woods from Unsplash)

Rev. George Parsenios, who was appointed Dean of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology two years ago, has resigned from his position as Dean effective June 1, 2023.

However, he will continue to serve as a Professor of New Testament.

The National Herald reported on Dec. 15, 2022, that Fr. Parsenios was going to resign, but school officials asked him to stay a bit longer.

This is to avoid sending a negative message to the academic community, the Church, and the Greek-American Community.

Meanwhile, Fr. Parsenios was recently appointed as the presiding priest at St. Nicholas Parish in Lexington, MA.

Efforts to reach Fr. Parsenios for comment were unsuccessful.

However, according to The National Herald, they tried to reach Fr. Parsenios again on Jan. 23rd to inquire about the reasons behind his resignation, as he had previously stated it was due to health issues.

However, at the same time, he had taken on the role of presiding priest at St. Nicholas parish.

Fr. Parsenios did not respond to their efforts to communicate.

But, according to The National Herald, it is worth noting that Fr. Parsenios was appointed as Dean and Professor of New Testament at Holy Cross two years ago.

Additionally, his wife, Presbytera Maureen, works at the school as the Executive Assistant to the President, George Cantonis.

Meanwhile, a formal search for the next Dean will begin immediately, with the goal of attracting top candidates from around the world to continue the work started by Fr. Parsenios.

Leader and Exceptional Role Model

While serving as Dean, Fr. Parsenios was instrumental in implementing crucial initiatives at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology.

For instance, he did a revamp of the school’s Master of Divinity program.

He also served as an outstanding example to students, faculty, and staff in both his pastoral and academic capacities.

When asked about Fr. Parsenios’s resignation, President George M. Cantonis commented that finding a replacement for him will be difficult because he was such a perfect fit for the role.

This is because he possessed the right combination of academic, pastoral, and personal qualifications.

Meanwhile, Dr. Diana Demetrulias, Vice President for Academic Affairs, stated that Fr. Parsenios played a crucial role in moving the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology into a new era.

And so, his contributions will always be respected.

She praised Fr. Parsenios as a highly regarded scholar, a talented priest, and a leader who serves his fellow faculty members.

She also acknowledged that Fr. Parsenios’s departure from the role of Dean will bring new challenges, but expressed excitement about navigating these.

A Blessing for the Path Chosen

When informed about Fr. Parsenios’s resignation, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America expressed his sadness about Fr. Parsenios’s health issues, which necessitated his stepping down as Dean.

However, the Archbishop stated that this was the best decision for Fr. Parsenios’s health and the well-being of his family.

He also prayed that Fr. Parsenios would be strengthened by the Lord to carry out this important task with good health and strength.

Meanwhile, as he transitions to a new position as a professor at Holy Cross, Fr. Parsenios expressed regret that his health prevents him from continuing as Dea.

However, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the students of the school.

He then thanked Archbishop Elpidophoros for his blessing and offered his well wishes to the faculty, Dr. Demetrulias, and Mr. Cantonis as they continue leading the seminary.