Steven Lukac, (center) and Wife Natalie With Archbishop Demetrios, Protopresbyter Michael Polanichka and
Diocesan Archons Michael Ristvey and John Halecky, Jr at the Conclusion of the Investiture Service 
(Photo Courtesy of John Mindala)

NEW YORK, NY -  On Sunday October 16, 2011, Steven Lukac,  Parish Council President of  St. John the Baptist Orthodox Parish in Sharon, PA, was given the honor of becoming an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate by His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity.  Joining him at the investiture ceremony was his wife Natalie, Very Rev. Protopresbyter Michael Polanichka and fellow parishioner, Archon Michael Ristvey, Jr.   

Steven joins a growing number of diocesan men who have been given the honor of being named an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

An Archon is an honoree by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for his outstanding service to the Church, and a well-known distinguished, and well-respected leader of the Orthodox Christian community.

It is by the grace of God that the Archon has been able to offer his good works and deeds of faith. Further, it is the sworn oath of the Archon to defend and promote the Orthodox Christian faith and tradition. His special concern and interest is to serve as a bulwark to protect and promote the Sacred See of St. Andrew the Apostle and its mission. He is also concerned with the human race's inalienable rights wherever and whenever they are violated - and the well-being and general welfare of the Christian Church.

This honor extended by the Ecumenical Patriarchate carries with it grave responsibilities, deep commitments, and sincere dedication. Consequently, it is of utmost importance that this honor of obligation be bestowed upon individuals of proven Orthodox Christian character, who conform faithfully to the teachings of Christ and the doctrines, canons, worship, discipline, and encyclicals of the Church.

Those selected to serve as Archons have demonstrated a commitment greater than average toward the stewardship of time, talent and treasure for the betterment of the Church, Parish, Diocese and the community as a whole. An Archon must truly be deserving of the proclamation: AXIOS, AXIOS, AXIOS!

View Photo Gallery of Investiture Ceremony