Fr. Bartholomew Mercado Receives Doctoral Degree

The V. Rev. Archimandrite Bartholomew Mercado successfully defended his doctoral thesis at the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, Italy on March 14, 2025. His thesis is entitled, “The Historical and Canonical Ecclesiastical Relations Between the Byzantine States of Nicaea, Trebizond, and Epirus (1204-1261).” It was given high praise from the commission of academics examining his work resulting in Fr. Mercado receiving his doctoral degree magna cum laude – with high distinction.

HCHC President Dr. Demetrios Katos said, “As a professor of canon law, Fr. Bartholomew will provide our clergy and laity with the pastoral guidance that will help strengthen and grow our parishes. He has demonstrated tremendous commitment to his calling as both a priest and scholar.”

Present at the doctoral defense in support of Fr. Mercado’s work was the official representative of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the V. Rev. Archdeacon Dionysios Papiris; His Eminence Metropolitan Kyrillos (Katerelos) of Krinis, Professor of Theology at the University of Athens; His Eminence Metropolitan Gregorios (Papathomas) of Peristeri, distinguished Professor of Theology at the University of Athens; and the Rev. Fr. Patrick Viscuso, Professor of Canon Law at the Antiochian House of Studies and the Pastoral School of the Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America.

Added Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc, Dean of Holy Cross, “I have known Fr. Bartholomew since he arrived at Hellenic College and have served as his advisor for years. He has always impressed me through his maturity, hard work and genuine Christian heart. His doctorate magna cum laude from such a prestigious university is a great honor for our Scholé.”

Fr. Mercado graduated from Hellenic College with a Bachelor in Religious Studies in 2012. He subsequently graduated from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology with a Master of Divinity in 2014 and a Master of Theology in 2017. He returned to his Alma Mater to serve as Instructor of Canon Law and Chaplain of the Holy Cross Chapel. With his successful doctoral defense, he will continue his academic duties as Assistant Professor of Canon Law and, likewise, he will continue his pastoral responsibilities as Chaplain.