March 26, 2015
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America also attended and, after concelebrating the memorial, gave a wonderful homily recalling his many years of working with our late Metropolitan in both SCOBA and the Assembly of Bishops. He remembered both his strong convictions and beliefs as well as his love and ability to cooperate.
His Grace Bishop John of the Diocese of Worcester also concelebrated the liturgy and memorial. His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon and His Eminence Archbishop Michael of New York, both of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) were scheduled to be present but could not due to the funeral of Protopresbyter Thomas Hopko. Likewise, His Grace Bishop John of the Russian Orthodox Church was scheduled to be at the memorial liturgy but was ill. All sent their regrets for not being able to attend.
His Excellency Bashar Ja'afari, Syrian Ambassador to the United Nations and Mr. Madji Ramadan, Counsel General of Lebanon in New York, also were present and extended their condolences to Metropolitan Joseph. A memorial lunch was served in the cathedral hall following the liturgy and memorial at which time, Metropolitan Philip's niece, Leslie Saliba Nasr spoke on behalf of the family.
Our hierarchs and clergy throughout the archdiocese held similar memorials in every church. May his memory be eternal and may his soul rest with the saints!
