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Diocese of the South Marks Leadership Transition at 49th Assembly
The Diocese of the South concluded a week of worship and reflection by preparing for its next generation of leadership.
JACKSONVILLE, FL — Delegates from across the Orthodox Church in America's (OCA) Diocese of the South gathered July 20–24 for the 49th Diocesan Assembly, combining worship, governance, and fellowship while marking the retirement of Abp. Alexander and preparing for a new era of diocesan leadership.
Hosted by the North Florida Deanery, the assembly featured sessions at the Hyatt Place St. Augustine and liturgical services at Annunciation Orthodox Church and St. Justin Martyr Orthodox Church. Throughout the week, clergy, monastics, youth, and lay representatives participated in plenary meetings, theological presentations, and prayer services. During the Pontifical Divine Liturgy on the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene, Dn. Vassily Kocher was elevated to protodeacon, Fr. David Wooten and Fr. Seraphim Joa were elevated to archpriest, Fr. David Arnold received the jeweled pectoral cross, and Annunciation Mission was elevated to parish status.
Mission and parish renewal became central themes during the gathering. Dr. Nathan Hoppe delivered presentations encouraging Orthodox communities to embrace their missionary identity through vibrant Eucharistic life, evangelism, stewardship, Christian formation, philanthropy, and faithful governance. The assembly also included fellowship events for clergy families, youth activities, and a banquet honoring Abp. Alexander's decade of service to the Diocese of the South.
The week's business concluded with significant leadership decisions. The Holy Synod declared the See of Dallas and the South vacant following Abp. Alexander's retirement and appointed Bp. Gerasim as locum tenens. The following day, delegates unanimously nominated Bp. Gerasim as the candidate for Bishop of Dallas and the South. His nomination will be considered by the Holy Synod during its Fall 2026 session, while Metr. Tikhon called on the faithful to pray for the Diocese as it enters this period of transition.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCA music ministry leader was recognized after 35 years of service.
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