New Chancellor, Ministries/Communications Director, to begin duties
At the spring 2007 meeting of the Metropolitan Council, candidates for the positions of chancellor, treasurer, and director of ministries and communications were presented and unanimously endorsed.
The following week, the names and credentials of the candidates were reviewed at the spring session of the Holy Synod of Bishops. The hierarchs concurred with the Metropolitan Council’s recommendations. The Reorganization Task Force then was asked to enter into final negations with the candidates regarding their job descriptions, remuneration, and available date for starting their work.
The Very Rev. Alexander Garklavs has accepted the position of chancellor. He will participate on a part-time basis beginning immediately, assuming his position full time on July 1, 2007.
The Rev. Andrew Jarmus has accepted the position of director of ministries and communications. He will begin his work on August 1, 2007.
The Metropolitan Council unanimously endorsed Mr. Kevin Kovalycsik to serve as treasurer of the Church. Together with the other two candidates, his name was presented to the members of the Holy Synod of Bishops, who unanimously accepted his candidacy.
In a letter addressed to His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, dated April 28, 2007, Mr. Kovalycsik voluntarily withdrew as a candidate for the position of treasurer following the processes of due diligence after Holy Pascha.
In his letter he stated, “Please accept this letter as formal notification of my immediate withdrawal from the nominated and approved position of treasurer of the Orthodox Church in America…. I welcome the opportunity to remain active towards the building of the Orthodox Church in America, volunteering my time and talent outside of compensated employment. Please express to all my most sincere gratitude and appreciation for the affirmed confidence in my ability to execute this office, and, most of all, my great love of the Orthodox Faith.”
In his response to Mr. Kovalycsik, Metropolitan Herman blessed his decision and encouraged him to “continue to be faithful to the One Who is the light coming into the darkness.” In conclusion, the Metropolitan wrote, “May our risen Lord continue to bless you, touch your heart, and lead you in all of your endeavors as you grow in the Faith.”
Though the search for additional candidates for the office of treasurer will continue, it is anticipated that a candidate will be proposed to the Metropolitan Council at its June 2007 meeting to fill the office of secretary.