The Direct Archdiocesan District based in New York City is composed of the parishes in the greater New York area and northern suburbs and upstate New York all of Long Island, the western half of Connecticut, and Washington DC. The District is under the direct authority, supervision, and pastoral care of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios. DISTRICT CLERGY-LAITY ASSEMBLY The Direct Archdiocesan District began 2003 with a well-attended Clergy-Laity Assembly held on February 8 at the Church of Our Saviour in Rye, New York. Delegates from 44 of the 67 parishes of the District were addressed by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, who emphasized the importance of the District having a strong identity in a region of the country that is diverse and presents many cultural challenges. He affirmed that the key component is strong parishes that are not isolated but linked with other communities to address critical needs of ministry. The District Assembly also included intense planning and discussion on the ministries of the Archdiocesan District. The committees for Youth, Communications, Religious Education, Greek Education, Family Ministry, Parish Development, Philanthropy, and Stewardship met and developed goals and actions for enhancing the work of the District and the parishes. DISTRICT COUNCIL The District Council was elected at the Assembly in February, and the Council met in May and October to continue the work of the Assembly. With the Archbishop serving as Chairman, the Council elected Dr. George Zimmar as Vice-Chairman, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Anctil as Secretary, and Dr. Constantine Flokas as Treasurer. At the meetings of the Council, members discussed the recommendations of the District committees, heard updates on District ministries, and made preparations for the 2004 Assembly and the 2004 Biennial Clergy Laity Congress which will be held in New York City. Members of the Archdiocesan District Council during a break of the Council’s fall meeting with Archbishop Demetrios held on Oct. 7 at Archdiocese headquarters. 2003 MINISTRY REPORTS Chancellory – 67 District parishes served by 69 priests; 19 students from the District at Holy Cross School of Theology with 12 preparing for the priesthood. Greek Education – 2002-03 School Year – 11 day schools with 2,522 students; 50 afternoon schools with 3,813 students. Youth and Young Adults – 1300 participants for the 2003 District Olympics; 2 weeks of Camp Good Shepherd with 80 participants; Youth worker training seminars in 7 parishes; Young Adult lecture series. Choir Federation – Sponsored several Christmas programs; Annual Conference held May 30 – June 1. Philoptochos – 61 District chapters with major contributions to Saint Basil Academy, St. Michael’s Home, the Hellenic Cultural Center, and programs assisting physically and mentally handicapped children.