Gathering of new Priestly Families in the IM of Aetolia and Acarnaniatranslated

The Meeting of the new Priestly Families of the Holy Metropolis of Aetolia and Acarnania was successfully held on the afternoon of Thursday, October 29, 2026. The main speaker was Elder Mrs. Evangelia Christou-Giafi, Educational Biologist, who developed the topic: "The Priestly Family: from stereotypes to authenticity".

The speaker approached the contemporary challenges of the priestly family, pointing out the need to go beyond social stereotypes and predetermined roles, preserving its spiritual identity and cultivating relationships of honesty, love and mutual respect.

Developing the relationship of the priestly couple, he emphasized that the Priesthood does not negate the essential needs of marriage and family. The Priest is called to responsibly combine his pastoral ministry with his presence as a husband and father, while the Elder is an equal partner, with personality, gifts and needs that must be respected.

He made special reference to the role of the Elder, stressing that her offer is not limited to fulfilling external expectations or trying to respond to a specific...