NEW YORK 12/4/2005 (ANA/P. Panagiotou)
Greek Orthodox former Archbishop of America, Iakovos, died early Monday (Greek time) in hospital in the US, at the age of 94.

The historic prelate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America (now Archdiocese of America), died in Stanford, Connecticut at about 1:30 a.m. (Greek time), where he was hospitalized with acute respiratory problems.

Iakovos, born on the island of Imvros, served as Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of America for 37 years, until his resignation in July 1996. He was succeeded by Archbishop Spyridon, who served in the post for three years, followed by the current Archbishop, Demetrios.

Political leadership, Archbishop Christodoulos express condolences over the death of former Archbishop of America

 "Former Archbishop of America Iakovos was a leading personality of Hellenism and Orthodoxy," President of the Hellenic Republic Karolos Papoulias said in a statement regarding former Archbishop of America Iakovos, who died early on Monday (Greek time).

Papoulias sent his condolences to Archbishop of America Demetrios, stating the following: "His charismatic personality, his radiance as a spiritual leader, his broad appeal to US society and its political leadership and his significant initiatives rendered his mediation on behalf of our national interests and those of the Greek community abroad effective, whenever necessary. His homeland and Hellenism will never forget his contribution."

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis also sent a letter of condolence to Demetrios, expressing his regret at the death of Iakovos. "Archbishop Iakovos, a significant spiritual leader and a source of inspiration for the Greek community, proved himself a loyal fighter to the end, in support of Orthodoxy and Hellenism," Karamanlis stated.

Main opposition PASOK President George Papandreou also expressed his condolences, referring to Iakovos' leadership both within the Church and within the Greek community in the US.

Finally, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos stated that the death of Iakovos meant that the Church had lost a dynamic fighter who fought on the side of Good, and called it a major loss, since the world had lost someone of great moral stature and values.

Ecumenical Patriarchate expresses its condolences

The Ecumenical Patriarchate, based in Phanar, issued a statement on Monday, expressing its condolences over the death of former Archbishop of America Iakovos.

The patriarchate referred to Iakovos' contribution to the Church and to Hellenism, highlighting his leadership during the 37 years he held the post of archbishop, but also his continued efforts after resigning in 1996, to promote the interests of the Church and Hellenism.

Source: Athens News Agency

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