[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 26 (Thursday, March 12, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E366]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF FATHER PETER METALLINOS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 12, 1998

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Father Peter 
Metallinos on the occasion of his retirement. Father Metallinos has 
served his parish and his communities in multiple capacities for the 
last thirty-six years and his presence will surely be missed.
  Born on the island of Tinos, Father Metallinos served God from the 
time he was a small boy. He decided to follow in the footsteps of his 
uncle after serving as an altar boy for him. Father Peter immigrated to 
the United States in 1952 and completed his pre-theological studies at 
the University of California. He entered the military, served as an MP, 
and assisted the U.S. Chaplain in conducting religious services.
  Father Metallinos fulfilled his calling by studying at Holy Cross 
Theological Seminary in Brookline. His ordination took place on April 
12, 1962 and later that year he was appointed as priest of the 
American-Hellenic Community of Greater Cleveland. This appointment 
marked the beginning of his thirty-six year tenure at the St. Demetrios 
Church.
  As priest of St. Demetrios Church, Father Metallinos started several 
monetary campaigns to upgrade the parish. The new facilities allowed 
St. Demetrios to conduct new ministries to better serve the community. 
This tradition continues today. Sunday School and Greek School 
continues to flourish and instill in children the religious teachings 
necessary for life. Father Metallinos also helped patients from around 
the world come to Cleveland to be treated at the city's medical 
facilities. Father Metallinos maintained a radio program designed to 
introduce the word of God to people of all ethnic backgrounds. Father 
Metallinos represented his parish well as he served on several 
international committees and was recognized by the United Hellenic 
American Congress for his outstanding service to humanity.
  Although Father Peter is retiring, he will always be remembered in 
the hearts of St. Demetrios' congregation as a compassionate and loving 
person. As Father Metallinos, his wife Presbytera, and his children 
move into this new stage of life, we thank him for his service to the 
community, to his parish, and to his Faith. My fellow colleagues, join 
me in saluting Father Peter Metallinos on his retirement from St. 
Demetrios Church.

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