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Wednesday, July 24, 2002

By Mike Branom, The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Archbishop Herman, head of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, was elected Monday as the new spiritual leader of the Orthodox Church in America.

Now known as Metropolitan Herman, he replaces Metropolitan Theodosius, who is retiring after 25 years as ruling primate because of poor health.

Herman defeated Bishop Seraphim, head of the Archdiocese of Canada, on the second ballot after a first round did not produce a winner.

Herman previously led the diocese that includes Philadelphia.

Voting in the election were 641 clergy and lay delegates at the OCA's 13th All-American Council. The Holy Synod of Bishops then gave final approval of Herman.

The Orthodox Church in America, which has Russian roots, has about 3 million followers in 2,500 parishes across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The OCA's central office is in Syosset, N.Y.

Among the issues for which Herman will be expected to provide leadership is strengthening evangelism efforts among immigrants to the Americas from traditionally Orthodox Christian lands in Europe and the Middle East.

Also, Herman was to immediately begin presiding over discussions on funding the church's expanding ministries.