Archbishop Elpidophoros gifted President Trump a Holy Cross

On March 24, 2025, the White House hosted a formal reception in honor of Greek Independence Day. The highlight of the evening was the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Archbishop Elpidophoros, head of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

The Greek Independence Day reception is a long-standing White House tradition that recognizes the significant contributions of the Greek diaspora to American culture and the economy.

In recognition of the President’s service, Archbishop Elpidophoros presented Donald Trump with a Holy Cross. During his formal remarks, the hierarch drew a striking historical parallel, comparing President Trump’s role in contemporary politics to the legacy of Constantine the Great — the Roman emperor who made Christianity the dominant religion of the empire and laid the foundations of the Byzantine Empire.

“Your leadership and unwavering commitment to the ideals of faith remind us of the great defenders of Christianity throughout history,” the Archbishop said in his address.

The main theme of the event was the protection of religious freedom and support for Christian communities both in the United States and abroad. Archbishop Elpidophoros particularly highlighted the President’s personal contribution to strengthening traditional values, noting that his policies deeply resonate with Orthodox believers across America.