More Than 1,100 Gather for Antiochian Diocese's 74th Parish Life Conference

SAN DIEGO — More than 1,100 clergy and faithful gathered along the San Diego waterfront for the 74th Parish Life Conference of the Antiochian Diocese of Los Angeles and the West, combining spiritual renewal with celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Held July 1–5 at the San Diego Marina, the conference attracted 1,158 attendees, making it one of the largest gatherings in the event's history.

Presiding over the conference, Bp. Anthony centered his addresses on the theme, “You Shall Be to Me a Royal Priesthood and a Holy Nation” (Exodus 19:6), urging participants to embrace continual spiritual growth and a deeper dependence on God. Speaking to the Young Adult Ministry, he challenged Orthodox Christians to strengthen the nation's moral foundation by living out their faith, emphasizing that genuine freedom is rooted in dependence on God rather than personal desires. About 100 young adults also participated in a sunset cruise featuring fellowship, food, and music.

The conference included workshops on artificial intelligence, Orthodox worldview, parenting, and finding one's place in the Church, while clergy wives met with Bp. Anthony for discussion and encouragement about parish life and ministry. Teen SOYO participants assembled care packages and soccer balls for Project Mexico's orphans and heard the bishop discuss his vocation, Scripture, and the importance of regular church attendance.

Worship remained the centerpiece of the gathering. During Saturday's Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, Dn. John Dibs was ordained to the priesthood and will serve St. Mary Church in Murrieta, California, while Thomas Mellor was ordained to the diaconate for service at St. John the Evangelist Cathedral in Eagle River, Alaska. Four individuals, including newly ordained Fr. John Dibs, were also inducted into the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. The conference concluded with Bible Bowl and Oratorical competitions, festive evening celebrations, and anticipation for next year's 75th Parish Life Conference, to be hosted by St. Nicholas Cathedral of Los Angeles.

Previously, the UOJ reported that St. Nicholas Church hosted a record-setting Miami Parish Life Conference.