Father Alex Karloutsos, a Greek American priest and former Vicar General for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, has been awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom for his spiritual leadership by US President Joe Biden during his work as a spiritual leader a ceremony at the White House in Washington on Thursday.
Karloutsos is among the most prominent religious figures in the United States. He holds a liaison, and advisory role, and is a counsellor to some of our nation’s highest decision-makers. Throughout his tenure, he has known eight US Presidents.
During his speech, Biden described Karloutsos as an “incredible leader” and “a man of deep moral clarity” while praising his “unmatched humility and grace.”
Karloutsos retired from his role in the Church in May of last year. In a letter to Archibishop Elpidophoros, he mentions that he had submitted his retirement when he turned 75, but “it was not accepted.”
Last year, Father Alex Karloutsos insisted and finally, his “request” was approved by the Archbishop, and so he retired from active ministry on May 3, 2021.
