Diocese of Worcester Gathers for Parish Life Conference in Lowell

LOWELL, MA — Clergy and faithful from across the Diocese of Worcester and New England gathered in Lowell on June 20 for the annual Parish Life Conference, a day of worship, education, fellowship, and youth activities led by Bp. John Abdalah.

Hosted by Fr. Leonard Faris and St. George Church, the conference took place at the Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church Hall. The event featured Dr. Demetrios Katos, former president of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, as the keynote speaker. Throughout the day, participants attended meetings, leadership sessions, and programs designed to strengthen parish life across the diocese.

The conference also highlighted the accomplishments of young people from the diocese. Teens from St. Mary Church in Pawtucket won the Bible Bowl competition, while representatives from St. Michael Church in Cotuit, St. George Cathedral in Worcester, and St. George Church in West Roxbury presented speeches during the oratorical contest. Worship formed the foundation of the gathering, beginning with Orthros and the Divine Liturgy and concluding with Great Vespers. Organizers also introduced a professionally produced video on parish and parish-council leadership, followed by a workshop for clergy and lay leaders that explored discussion questions for future use throughout the region. Meetings of SOYO and the Antiochian Women provided additional opportunities for fellowship before an Arabic dinner and awards ceremony brought the conference to a close.

Previously, the UOJ reported Bp. John Abdalah ordained his son to the priesthood on Pentecost.