New England Diocese holds annual assembly

Clergy and laity of the Diocese of New England met at Holy Annunciation Church on October 27-28, 2006.

MAYNARD, MA [Diocese of New England] — The Diocese of New England held its annual assembly at Holy Annunciation Church here Friday and Saturday, October 27-28, 2006.

His Grace, Bishop Nikon of Boston and New England, opened the two-day gathering by reporting on the work, progress, and changes the diocese had experienced during the past year.

Bishop Nikon announced that the Rev. John Kreta was named diocesan chancellor, effective November 1, 2006, while the Very Rev. Andrew Tregubov was named dean of missions.

The Very Rev. Michael Dahulich, dean of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, South Canaan, PA, was the assembly’s guest speaker. In his address, he focused on our need as Orthodox Christians to keep our hearts and minds on our responsibility to always continue to be the Church and to continue to reflect the Gospel message of Jesus Christ in all that we do. He added that the current financial issues facing the OCA should not be the focus of our total involvement, citing the words of Saint Paul to live in Christ and to be alive in the life of the Church. He referenced Saint Paul’s analogy that if one part of the body is ill, we do not destroy the whole body, but treat the illness so that the rest of the body functions.

Bishop Nikon permitted delegates to share their thoughts on the current issues facing the OCA. A frank and open discussion by the delegates permitted members of the diocese to offer solace to each other. An open, enlightening discussion most certainly left the delegates with the feeling that while their hearts are broken, together we are beginning to mend.

Bishop Nikon informed the assembled delegates that most assuredly, the joint meeting of the Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council scheduled for December will help in the healing process, as the whole Church—bishops, clergy, and laity - will participate.

A statement relative to the crisis that included guidance to the members of diocesan council was adopted. The sentiment of the statement was drafted so that the diocese itself would be and could be protected through any necessary actions chosen by the diocesan council.


Photo gallery of the New England Diocesan Assembly