"St. Athanasius the Great was a Deacon. He defended the faith when he attended the first Ecumenical Council. He was the center and star of that Ecumenical Council. The Holy Spirit spoke through him. He inspired all the Holy Fathers. No one could disregard his office as a Deacon. On the other hand, the Bishop does not kiss the Deacon’s hand. But, when the Bishop looks at the icon of the Proto-martyr, Archdeacon Stephen, the Bishop himself, the Patriarch himself, bows and kisses the Archdeacon Stephen’s hand. Why am I telling you these two pieces of history? Because the people and everyone will honor your office with respect because of your obedience to the teaching and to Almighty God. Therefore, the more you are the icon of our Lord and holiness comes out in your actions, in your behaviors, in your words, in your relationships at home and everywhere, the more you will earn respect and honor from everyone." -- His Eminence, Archbishop JOSEPH