A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE FROM FATHER PAUL UPON RETURNING FROM SABBATICAL

Today, I return home to Toms River, New Jersey, and to my beloved parish of Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, following the completion of my three-month sabbatical, taken over three separate periods throughout 2026.

In 2025, I submitted an application through the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America for a three-month sabbatical leave. By the grace of God, this request was approved, with the understanding that the leave would be taken in three separate one-month periods, at the request of His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey. The first month took place in January 2026, the second in June 2026, and the third, which I have just completed, in October 2026.

First and foremost, I offer my heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for this tremendous blessing and opportunity. I am deeply appreciative of the support and generosity extended to me by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, the Archdiocese Presbyters Council, Leadership 100, His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, and the Sabbatical Committee, whose dedication to the spiritual, personal, and pastoral well-being of our clergy makes this opportunity possible.

This sabbatical provided me with a precious opportunity to step away from the daily responsibilities of parish ministry and devote meaningful time to my beloved Presbytera Donna, my immediate family, and the many dear friends whom the demands of ministry have sometimes prevented me from seeing as often as I would have wished. These months offered me a time of rest, reflection, renewal, and reconnection with those who hold such a special place in my life.

I return to Saint Barbara with a renewed spirit, a grateful heart, and great enthusiasm for the ministry that lies ahead. I look forward to seeing my beloved parishioners once again and continuing our shared journey of faith, worship, fellowship, and service to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I would be remiss if I did not express my sincere appreciation to our Parish Council President, Irene Koutzoulis, and to all the members of our Parish Council for their understanding, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout my absence. I am equally grateful to each and every parishioner for your love, kindness, patience, and prayers. Your understanding and support have been deeply meaningful to me, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

As I return to my beloved parish family, I do so with a renewed appreciation for the sacred calling of the priesthood, the blessings of family and friendship, and the privilege of serving our Lord through His Holy Church. I look forward to resuming our life together in Christ and continuing the work entrusted to us for the spiritual growth and well-being of our beloved Saint Barbara community.

May God bless each of you and your families abundantly. May He continue to guide and strengthen our parish, granting us many years of health, peace, love, and unity as we journey together in faith and in His service.

With heartfelt gratitude, love, and prayers for all,

In His service,

+Fr. Paul Pappas

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