The long-awaited Agreement
The long-awaited Agreement between the Hellenic Community of Greater Montreal (HCGM) and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto (Canada) was finally signed by His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios and HCGM President Nicholas Pagonis. The signing of this agreement puts an end to the 600$ payment directly to the Metropolis for holy sacraments to be held in HCGM Churches.
The news was delivered by His Eminence Metropolitan himself, through his message to the priests. “It is with great joy that I inform you that President Pagonis and I have signed the Agreement. From July 1st 2015, the Metropolis will no longer be charging fees for weddings, baptisms or funeral services”, wrote His Eminence and added: “This Agreement between the HCGM and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis is of historic importance and I hope that from here forward, the HCGM and our Metropolis will work together harmoniously for the preservation of Hellenism and Orthodoxy”.
In his message, HCGM President Pagonis, stated: “The signing of this Agreement will bring tranquility and amicability to the relations between the two organisations, offering joy and peace to the parishioners. With a sincere spirit of cooperation, we will significantly strengthen our common fundamental principles of maintaining our traditions, culture and religion”.