The Most Reverend Philip Archbishop of Philadelphia (Retired)
Nameday: November 14/28
Ordained to the Priesthood: 1972
Consecrated to the Episcopacy: February 7, 1977 — Los Angeles, California (Axios!)
Biography
His Eminence, Archbishop Philip, Archbishop of Philadelphia (Retired), is one of the senior hierarchs of the True Orthodox Church of the Diaspora and a foundational figure in the establishment and growth of Old Calendar Orthodoxy in North America. For more than five decades he has offered steadfast leadership, pastoral care, and a tireless commitment to the preservation of the patristic and canonical tradition.
Ordained to the priesthood in 1972, he was elevated to the episcopacy on February 7, 1977, in Los Angeles, California, receiving the acclamation Axios! His early episcopal ministry was marked by remarkable missionary vigor: from 1978 to 1986 he built four parishes in Los Angeles County, establishing a strong and enduring Orthodox presence in Southern California.
In 1986, Archbishop Philip relocated to the East Coast, continuing his pastoral ministry while working in New York City. During this period he founded and built the Chapel of the Archangels in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, which remains a spiritual center of the Archangel Diocese and a testament to his vision and dedication.
Archpastoral Contributions
Throughout his long ministry, Archbishop Philip has offered decades of pastoral, missionary, and administrative leadership, shaping the life of the Church through teaching, writing, and charitable service. His contributions include:
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Founding the Chapel of the Archangels in Weatherly, PA
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Co‑chairing the Archangel’s Memorial Park, a sacred place of prayer and remembrance
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Publishing The Voice, an Old Calendar Orthodox periodical (12 volumes, 66 issues)
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Serving as Chairman of the Board for Helping Hands Food Pantry, overseeing 28 food pantries in Carbon County
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Defending the Old Calendar and the patristic teachings of Orthodoxy
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Upholding the integrity of the liturgical year
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Providing pastoral care for clergy and faithful
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Offering theological clarity in times of ecclesial confusion
His Eminence’s ministry has been characterized by humility, perseverance, and a deep love for the Church. His leadership has shaped generations of clergy and faithful, and his legacy continues to guide the Archangel Diocese.
In February, he will celebrate the 50th anniversary of his episcopacy—a milestone marking half a century of unwavering service to Christ’s Holy Church.
Contact
Archangel Diocese
Holy Archangels Orthodox Church
631 West Main Street Weatherly, PA 18255
Phone: (484) 639‑1506