More About Rev. Fr. Zissis Lappas
Early Life and Education
Father Zissis Lappas was born in Xanthi, Greece, a city known for its rich Orthodox Christian heritage and deep-rooted traditions. From a young age, he felt a strong calling to the life of the Church, which ultimately led him to both academic theological study and pastoral ministry.
Before entering seminary, he pursued studies in economics and business administration, earning a bachelor's degree in Economic Science from the International Hellenic University in 2008. His education in economics provided him with valuable leadership, organizational, and financial management skills, which later became useful in his parish administrative roles.
However, feeling a stronger call to serve the Church, he transitioned to theological studies, enrolling at Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, in Brookline Massachusetts, where he completed both his Master of Divinity (M. Div) and Master of Theology (Th.M.). His theological education focused on Orthodox dogmatics, patristics, pastoral care, and liturgical theology, preparing him for a life of service to the Church and its people.
Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in Theology at the Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, researching pastoral care in the digital era, the influence of artificial intelligence on spirituality, and the Church’s response to modern technological advancements.
Ordination and Clerical Service
Father Zissis was ordained to the Holy Diaconate on February 23, 2020, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey, under His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey.
Just a few weeks later, he was ordained to the Holy Priesthood on March 15, 2020, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Hamilton-Trenton, NJ, marking the beginning of his priestly ministry.
His ordination came at a challenging time, as the COVID-19 pandemic had just begun to impact Church life and worship practices worldwide. Despite the difficulties posed by the crisis, Father Zissis faithfully served the Parish of St. Catherine in Braintree Massachusetts under the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of Boston, where he:
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Adapted Church ministries to pandemic restrictions, ensuring that Orthodox faithful remained spiritually nourished.
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Assisted in live-streaming services and pastoral outreach, allowing parishioners to stay connected with their faith despite social distancing measures.
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Provided spiritual guidance and counselling to individuals and families facing uncertainty during the pandemic.
Pastoral Assignments and Leadership Roles
St. Katherine - Falls Church, Virginia
In 2021, Father Zissis was assigned to serve as an assistant priest at St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Falls Church, Virginia, one of the most active and vibrant Greek Orthodox parishes in the United States.
His time at St. Katherine’s provided him with valuable pastoral experience, particularly in:
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Youth ministry and Orthodox education, engaging young parishioners in faith-building activities.
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Community outreach and philanthropy, fostering charitable initiatives within the parish.
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Liturgical services and sacramental life, enriching the spiritual experience of the faithful.
St. George - Media, Pennsylvania
Recognizing his dedication, leadership, and theological depth, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese appointed Father Zissis as the Proistamenos (Presiding Priest) of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Media, PA, in October 2022.
Since assuming leadership of the parish, he has worked tirelessly to enhance spiritual, educational, and community programs while fostering a welcoming and dynamic Church environment.
Academic Contributions and Theological Research
Father Zissis is not only a pastor but also a scholar, engaging in academic research on Orthodox theology and pastoral care.
In November 2024, he presented his research at the PHAICON 24 International Conference in Athens, Greece. His lecture, “Pastoral Care in the Age of AI and Meta-Humanism: A Survey Case Study in the Congregation of St. George Greek Orthodox Parish in Media, PA,” explored:
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The impact of artificial intelligence and digital technology on modern Orthodox spirituality.
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How Orthodox pastoral care can evolve to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
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The role of digital and virtual platforms in ministering to Orthodox Christians.
His research and insights have positioned him as a leading voice in contemporary Orthodox theology, offering guidance on how the Church can embrace modern challenges while remaining rooted in its traditions.
Personal Life and Family
Father Zissis is happily married to Presbytera Georgia, a native of Andover, Massachusetts, and together they are blessed with a daughter, Ioanna Maria.
As a family, they live in faith and devotion, embracing the liturgical and communal life of the Church while serving as a source of inspiration and guidance to their parish. They actively engage with parishioners, fostering a sense of unity and shared faith.