Preconciliar Commission holds consultation on 15th All-American Council

On Monday April 7, 2008, the Preconciliar Commission held a consultation at the OCA Chancery in Oyster Bay Cove, NY. Guests invited to take part in the consultation included Archpriest Michael Dahulich, Dean of St. Tikhon’s Seminary, Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky, Director of External Affairs and Interchurch Relations, Protodeacon Eric Wheeler, former OCA Treasurer, Deacon John Zarras, Metropolitan Council member, Dr. Paul Meyendorff, St. Vladimir’s Seminary faculty, and Mr. Mark Stokoe, editor of OCANews.org

Beginning with a review of a draft agenda for the 15th All-American Council, consultation participants addressed many issues related to the Council and to the wider situation of the Church at this time.

Those present agreed that the healing of hearts broken by the recent crises within the OCA is a most important priority for the Church. They also agreed that better communication and mutual accountability between the Holy Synod of Bishops and the membership of the Church is essential. Participants recognized that it was not realistic to assume that the healing of these wounds could be achieved by the 15th AAC alone. However, this council must be instrumental in the broader healing process.

Consultation participants proposed and discussed various AAC agenda items, and initiatives leading up to the Council. These would facilitate greater trust and closer synergy between the various leadership levels of the Church, clergy and laity.

This consultation is the first in a series of meetings being planned throughout the Church to discuss the AAC and its agenda.

Chaired by His Grace, Bishop Nikon of Boston, members of the Preconciliar Commission include: OCA Chancellor and Acting Secretary, Archpriest Alexander Garklavs; OCA Treasurer, Priest Michael Tassos; Director of Ministries and Communications, Archpriest Andrew Jarmus; Archpriest John Jillions; Resolution Committee Chair, Archpriest John Erickson; David Drillock; Michelle Jannakos; Eugenia Skuby, and recording secretary, Lisa Morris.

The consultation was facilitated by Mr. Brian Strom of the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution, Ottawa, Canada.

The 15th All-American Council of the Orthodox Church in America will be held November 10 to 13, 2008, in Pittsburgh, PA.