GOARCH Clergy-Laity Congress Registration Opens for 2026

Abp. Elpidophoros at the 47th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress in 2024. Photo: GOA/Dimitrios Panagos

CLEVELAND, OH — With the blessing of His Eminence Abp. Elpidophoros, the Organizing Committee of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress has officially opened registration for this historic gathering of the Church in America. The Congress is scheduled for June 30 – July 2, 2026, in Cleveland, bringing together clergy, parish leaders, ministry participants, and faithful from across the Archdiocese under the theme “Rise & Build” (Nehemiah 2:18).

Held every two years, the Clergy-Laity Congress serves as the principal assembly of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH), providing a forum for prayer, deliberation, and the strengthening of Church ministries. This year, the event has been intentionally expanded to include not only official parish delegates but also those actively engaged in ministry at the parish and Archdiocesan level. 

A new feature of the 2026 Congress is a series of subsidized ministry training tracks, supported by the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, for youth ministry leaders, choir members, Byzantine chanters, and Sunday School teachers. These tracks provide workshops, training sessions, and collaborative opportunities. Exhibitor registration is also open, inviting ministries, organizations, and institutions worldwide to participate in the Congress Exhibition Hall, share their work, and engage with Church leaders. Full registration details are available here. 

Previously, the UOJ reported that GOARCH representatives joined a UN session as member states adopted an updated anti-trafficking declaration.

Read also