Diocese Of The Midwest Opens Registration For 2026 Parish Development Forum
The 2026 Parish Development Forum blends historical vision and practical strategy to strengthen Orthodox parish life in America.
CHICAGO — The Diocese of the Midwest has announced that registration is now open for the 2026 Parish Development Forum, a clergy and laity conference focused on strengthening Orthodox parish life through discussion, shared practices, and leadership development. The event is scheduled for July 9–11, 2026, at St. Luke Church in Palos Hills, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.
Organizers describe the Forum as a collaborative space where parish leaders from multiple Orthodox jurisdictions can examine challenges facing contemporary parishes and exchange practical approaches to ministry. The 2026 theme, “St. Tikhon’s Vision for the Church in America: An Experiment for Parish Life,” connects the legacy of St. Tikhon of Moscow with reflections on the broader development of Orthodox Christianity in the United States. Speakers will include clergy and scholars such as Prof. Scott Kenworthy, Archpriest Alexander Rentel, and Fr. Nicholas Anton, alongside structured discussions and daily worship.
Leaders emphasize that the Forum is designed to foster inter-parish relationships and encourage actionable ideas for parish growth. Hosted for the first time in the Chicago area, the Forum hopes to welcome participants from across the Midwest and beyond. Attendance is capped at 80 participants, with early registration discounts and group incentives available. Questions and inquiries can be sent to Mr. Kormos at [email protected], with the subject line “Forum Questions.”
Previously, the UOJ reported that a wave of conversions continued with a mass baptism in Houston.
