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OCA Diocese of the South Announces 2026 Assembly Schedule
The Diocese of the South will gather in Florida for four days of worship, fellowship, and planning as Abp. Alexander prepares to deliver his farewell address.
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL — The Orthodox Church in America's Diocese of the South will convene its 49th Diocesan Assembly from July 21–24 at the Hyatt Place St. Augustine/Vilano Beach, bringing together clergy and lay delegates for worship, administrative sessions, and fellowship.
The four-day gathering will include plenary sessions, reports from diocesan leadership, discussion of proposed amendments, financial and budget presentations, and a special nominating assembly. The event will also feature youth programming, deanery meetings, and opportunities for clergy, clergy wives, and parish representatives to meet throughout the week.
A highlight of the assembly will be the celebration of the Pontifical Divine Liturgy on July 22 at Annunciation Orthodox Church in Jacksonville, followed by a parish brunch. Attendees will also hear a keynote address, participate in educational lectures, and gather for the diocesan banquet. On July 23, Abp. Alexander is scheduled to deliver his farewell address, marking a significant moment in the life of the Diocese of the South.
The assembly will conclude on July 24 with a final plenary session, a Moleben, and a special nominating assembly at St. Justin Martyr Orthodox Church in Jacksonville before participants receive travel blessings and depart. Organizers have encouraged clergy, delegates, observers, and youth participants to register in advance and make hotel reservations as early as possible.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCA Holy Synod accepted Abp. Alexander's retirement from the Diocese of the South.
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