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OCA Diocese of New York and New Jersey Holds Annual Assembly
Metr. Tikhon led the OCA diocesan assembly in Princeton, where clergy and delegates discussed Church unity, pastoral responsibilities, and the needs of growing missions.
PRINCETON, NJ — Metr. Tikhon presided over the annual Assembly of the Orthodox Church in America's (OCA) Diocese of New York and New Jersey, held October 29–30 at the Church of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow, in Princeton. He attended at the invitation of Abp. Michael of New York and New Jersey, accompanied by Archpriest Alessandro Margheritino, OCA Chancellor.
The assembly opened on October 29 with a Divine Liturgy celebrated by Metr. Tikhon alongside Abp. Michael, Fr. Alessandro, Archpriest David Cowan, and other diocesan clergy. In his homily, Metr. Tikhon emphasized the Church's responsibility to bring people to Christ rather than engage in arguments.
“Our task is not to win arguments, but to bring each person to Christ and to walk with them in His Church,” he said.
He also urged clergy and faithful to speak graciously and preserve the unity of the Church, concluding: “Let us ask, not that our burdens be lifted, but that the door of the word remain open. Let our speech be with grace, seasoned with salt. And let us gather with Christ, and not scatter, so that this diocese may be a house that stands.”
The first day's business session included Abp. Michael's address, reports from diocesan officers and ministries, and discussions of financial and pastoral responsibilities.
On October 30, Metr. Tikhon addressed clergy, lay delegates and observers following a Molieben, presenting on “The Present Life of the Orthodox Church in America.” Fr. Alessandro followed with remarks on the responsibilities of the Chancellor's Office, including autocephaly, conciliarity, the planned relocation of the Metropolitan's residence and Chancery to Washington, DC, and support for growing missions and clergy families.
The afternoon program included presentations by Dr. William Marianes of Stewardship Calling Ministries on Christian discipleship and supporting parish ministries financially.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Tikhon celebrated the feast of St. Olga of Alaska.
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