Mississippi River Deanery Clergy Gather for Annual Retreat

CLINTON, MS — Clergy of the Mississippi River Deanery gathered November 2–4 at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church for their annual retreat, combining theological reflection, practical discussions about parish development, and fellowship. Much of the gathering focused on the opportunities and challenges facing growing Orthodox communities throughout the Diocese of the South.

A highlight came when Fr. Athanasios “Thanassi” Kombos learned that St. Paisios the Athonite Mission in Nacogdoches, TX, had received an Orthodox Church in America Church Planting Grant. The program provides funding for a full-time priest’s salary and benefits, helping mission communities develop into established parishes.

Fr. Bogdan G. Bucur, a professor at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, delivered presentations on St. Isaac the Syrian and St. Macarius, examining the nature of divine grace and the continuing experience of Christ in the lives of the saints.

Presbytera Maria Koulianos of the Orthodox Institute for Missions & Development introduced financial assistance available to mission communities seeking worship spaces or expanded facilities. Representatives of the Orthodox Church Capital Improvement Fund also discussed financing options, while another presentation introduced Parish Connect, a church administration and communication resource.

Clergy additionally discussed pastoral care, catechesis, and the needs of communities experiencing increased numbers of inquirers and converts. The gathering included a visit from founding pastor Mitred Archpriest Paul Yerger and concluded with remarks by Fr. Marcus Burch, Chancellor of the Diocese of the South.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a Mississippi parish baptized 22 new members in a joyful celebration.