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A Greek Orthodox priest, spiritual father and mentor, professor, scholar, author, and former pastor of St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Manchester, New Hampshire (US), Fitzgerald was originally from Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Following his ordination in 1966, Fitzgerald served the following parishes: St Paul Cathedral, St Michael in Stillwater, St Rita in Cottage Grove, St Genevieve in Centerville, St John the Baptist in Hugo, and many others after retirement from full-time ministry.
He was well known for his friendly and welcoming manner with all he encountered. He was a beloved pastor in the parishes he served, and was also known for his sense of humor.
During the 1990s, he was appointed to represent the Orthodox Church at the WCC, and served on the WCC Commission on Faith and Order, and as director of WCC unit on Unity and Renewal from 1994 to 1998.
Fitzgerald had recently retired from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, having served the longest tenure of teaching in the history of the school. He began his teaching ministry in September of 1974 and served through January 2022, when he retired as professor of Church History and Historical Theology.
He also served as dean of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology from September 2006 through August 2013 and again from June 2018 through December 2019.
He published numerous books and articles, including The Orthodox Church, an historical study of the development of the Orthodox Church in North America and The Ecumenical Movement: An Introductory History.
His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, said that Fitzgerald’s life was a radiant testament to faith, scholarship, and unity.
“Fr Tom offered nearly five decades of dedicated service to Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, where he inspired generations of clergy and scholars through his wisdom, humility, and boundless love for Christ,” said Archbishop Elpidophoros. “His participation in global dialogues as a bridge-builder between Christian traditions reflected his unwavering commitment to Christ’s prayer ‘that they may all be one’ (John 17:21).”
