Orthodox Leaders Call for Unity on Sunday of Orthodoxy
The Assembly of Bishops urges Orthodox faithful to embrace unity and the Sunday of Orthodoxy’s spiritual legacy.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — For the Sunday of Orthodoxy 2026, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA issued an encyclical celebrating the restoration of holy icons and the unity of the Orthodox Church. Abp. Elpidophoros, Chair of the Assembly, and Metr. Saba, Vice-Chair, called on the faithful to embrace the spiritual significance of icons and see Christ reflected in one another.
The encyclical recalls the Seventh Ecumenical Council (787) and the restoration of icons under Empress St. Theodora, Emperor Michael III, and Patriarch St. Methodios, highlighting the triumph of faith over fear. Quoting St. Paul’s exhortation to be “united in the same mind and the same judgment” (1 Cor 1:10), the Assembly encourages Orthodox Christians to pursue unity and mutual grace within the Church.
Faithful are also invited to support the ministries of the Assembly through time, talent, and treasure, fostering Orthodox Christian unity nationwide.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Assembly of Canonical Bishops continued its commitment to the sacredness of life.
