Metr. Tikhon Leads OCA Metropolitan Council’s Fall 2026 Meeting

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Orthodox Church in America’s (OCA) Metropolitan Council approved the Church’s proposed 2027 budget and a one-time contribution toward renovations at St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral during its fall session held October 14–15, 2026, in Springfield, VA, and Washington, D.C.

Presided over by Metr. Tikhon, the Council’s meeting opened with a molieben and a report from the Metropolitan. He highlighted growth in mission planting, liturgical music, youth ministry, and support for clergy and their families, while emphasizing the Church’s responsibility to strengthen Orthodox unity across North America.

Metr. Tikhon also discussed the recent acquisition of a property in Washington that will house his permanent residence and the OCA Chancery. He thanked the late Joseph and Theresa Domanick for their generosity in making the purchase possible, noting that the move places the Church’s central administration closer to St. Nicholas Cathedral, its primatial cathedral.

Archpriest Alessandro Margheritino, the OCA chancellor, outlined ongoing administrative work and the transition from the former Chancery property on Long Island. Archpriest David Bozeman, the Church’s secretary, reported on personnel, records, information technology, and communications. He also announced the relocation of archival materials to St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary and the submission of a $5 million grant proposal to the Lilly Endowment’s New Churches Initiative to support missionary expansion.

The Council heard reports on pastoral life, Church departments, finances, pensions, legal matters, and property. Treasurer Andrew Smith reported on the Church’s financial position, and members approved the proposed 2027 budget. The Council also discussed its future meeting schedule, expressing a preference for returning to two in-person sessions annually.

On October 15, Metr. Tikhon celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Cathedral with clergy concelebrants. Council members subsequently visited the newly acquired residence and Chancery offices before reconvening for the session’s final meeting.

Recognizing the cathedral’s growing role in the wider life of the OCA, the Council approved a one-time contribution toward its renovation and improvement campaign, including parking facilities. Metr. Tikhon concluded the session by thanking members for their service, and the meeting ended with prayer. Minutes will be published on the OCA website when available.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Vasily represented Metr. Tikhon at Georgia’s 1,700th-anniversary celebrations.