Preconciliar Commission, Local Committee meet, review plans for 17th All-American Council
Members of the Preconciliar Commission met with the Local Committee and members of Cleveland area parishes for a planning session September 10-11, 2012.
The Commission and Local Committee are charged with organizing the 17th All-American Council, a one-day event slated to convene at Holy Trinity Church, Parma, OH on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 for the purpose of electing a Primate for the Orthodox Church in America.
According to Archpriest Eric G. Tosi, OCA Secretary, subcommittees were established for liturgical services, bishops’ accommodations and welcoming, Council credentials and registration, transportation, meals, public relations, secretarial support, signs, and set up and breakdown. Chairs were assigned and volunteers solicited.
In other actions, Father Eric reported that
- bus transportation between the hotel and Council site has been arranged. A bus will also shuttle delegates to the Cleveland airport at the conclusion of the Council.
- Great Vespers will be celebrated on the eve of the Council, November 12, with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy the following morning.
- a brunch will follow the Divine Liturgy, while a dinner for all delegates will follow the electoral session.
“Area clergy and lay persons have already met to review their duties and responsibilities,” said Father Eric. “I am very impressed by the willingness of so many people to volunteer their time and the enthusiasm in working for the success of the Council.” Other meeting participants included Archpriest John Jillions, OCA Chancellor; Ms. Melanie Ringa, OCA Treasurer; Archpriest Myron D. Manzuk, Council Manager; Peter Ilchuk, Logistics Manager; Archpriest Alexander Garklavs, host rector; Archpriest John Memorich, a representative of the local clergy; and Mrs. Mary Jane Lucak, local lay chair. Registration packets and related Council resources are available in PDF format on the OCA web site.