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# AOCC Submits Documents to GOARCH to Begin Reconciliation Process
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/aocc-seeks-unity-with-greek-archdiocese/
- Published: 2026-11-03T18:27:50.000Z
- Updated: 2026-11-03T18:38:30.000Z
- Description: The AOCC has announced a step toward reconciliation with GOARCH, though the terms and outcome of the initiative remain undisclosed.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, AOCC, GOARCH, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine

**NEW YORK —** The American Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC) [has announced](https://www.facebook.com/100064889012806/posts/1555180386654914/?rdid=2PX1Cfc890gSeyVO#) that it submitted documentation to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH), claiming that is has formally begun what it describes as a process of reconciliation, unity, and communion between the two bodies.

In a Facebook statement, AOCC Press Secretary Fr. Don Purdum said the church was pleased to announce the submission and asked the faithful to pray for both jurisdictions as they pursue the initiative.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/06/the-juneteenth-joke-1-31d85ba9e5ab.jpg)On this topicThe Juneteenth Joke](https://uoj.news/defending-faith/the-juneteenth-joke/)

The announcement follows public statements in June and July 2026 concerning possible reconciliation between the organizations. The issue drew attention in June after GOARCH priest Fr. Samuel Davis hosted an ecumenical prayer service at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in New York on June 19\. AOCC clergy, including Wayne Daniels and Fr. Purdum, participated in the event. Fr. Samuel subsequently described the gathering as connected to the AOCC’s possible reception into the Orthodox Church.

In July, the AOCC synod issued a statement affirming that discussions with GOARCH were continuing with the unanimous support of its bishops. The synod characterized the effort as a canonical, pastoral, and administrative process. Abp. Wayne Daniels, Jr., told UOJ that the two sides were working toward reconciliation and communion. 

The AOCC traces its claimed historical lineage to Bp. Aftimios Ofiesh, who separated from the canonical Orthodox Church after marrying in 1933\. The original organization subsequently ceased to function, while a new group using the AOCC name was rechartered and incorporated in 2006 under its current leadership, headed by cleric Roger Willingham. Other organizations also claim connections to Ofiesh’s legacy.

The latest announcement confirms that documentation has been submitted, but does not disclose its contents, specify the terms under consideration, or indicate whether GOARCH has accepted the proposal.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/aocc-states-commitment-to-goarch-reconciliation-talks/) that the AOCC stated its commitment to GOARCH reconciliation talks in July 2026.