Keynote Speakers Announced for OCA Parish Ministries Conference, July 28-31
The Very Revs. Sergei Glagolev and George Gray will be the keynote speakers at the Orthodox Church in America’s Parish Ministries Conference slated to be held at St. Vladimir Seminary, Crestwood, NY Wednesday, July 28 through Saturday, July 31, 2004.
Both speakers will focus on the conference theme, “Faith in Action,” from a number of theological, pastoral and practical perspectives.
Organized by the OCA’s Department of Christian Witness and Service, “the conference will provide a unique opportunity for clergy and laity involved in active ministries to share ideas and to share the means and methods to strengthen existing ministries and initiate new ones,” according to Donna Karabin, Department Chairperson. “In addition to the keynote speakers, a number of panel discussions and over twenty workshops on numerous topics will be available to conference participants.”
“I attended the 1997 Parish Ministries Conference at St. Tikhon Monastery and it was one of the best church conferences I have ever been to,” said Mary Stanesa from Holy Transfiguration Church in Livonia, Michigan. “I still have my session audio tapes of the workshops I attended.”
Four broad areas will be explored during the conference: parish ministry, community outreach ministry, family ministry, and senior ministry. Participants are urged to bring photos and examples of their ministries to share with others in an exhibit area.
For many years Father Glagolev, Director Emeritus of the Fellowship of Orthodox Stewards, has been involved in numerous aspects of the Church’s life, including parish ministry. He brings to the conference years of experience and observation, as well as a personal enthusiasm for equipping the laity to engage in various ministries. Father Gray, rector of St. Nicholas Church, Portland, OR, also has a wealth of experience in lay, parish and youth ministry.
Conference details and registration forms were sent to all parishes from the Office of Protopresbyter Robert S. Kondratick, OCA Chancellor, prior to Pascha.
Two registration rates are being offered: a $100 early registration fee and a $150 fee for registrations postmarked after July 1st. Special registration options are also available for one day or evening participation. Because space is limited, early registration is encouraged.
Registration forms should be sent to Mrs. Arlene Kallaur, Orthodox Church in America, PO Box 675, Syosset, NY 11791.