OCA Holy Synod Holds Regular Fall 2026 Session

YONKERS, NY — The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America elected a new bishop for the Diocese of the South and approved a statement on assisted suicide and euthanasia during its fall meeting Nov. 2-4 at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary.

The meeting was presided over by Metr. Tikhon and brought together OCA hierarchs to discuss matters concerning the Church’s administration, finances, pastoral work, and relations with other Orthodox churches.

The Synod elected Bp. Gerasim (Eliel) as Bishop of Dallas and the South. Clergy and lay delegates of the diocese had nominated him at a special assembly in July. His enthronement is scheduled for Nov. 14 at St. Seraphim Cathedral in Dallas.

The bishops also approved a statement titled “A Christian Ending to Our Life,” addressing assisted suicide, euthanasia, and care for people approaching death. The statement reaffirms the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of human life and provides guidance for clergy, health care professionals, families, and caregivers.

In opening remarks at Three Hierarchs Chapel, Metr. Tikhon described the Synod as more than an administrative gathering, calling it an expression of the Church’s life as an autocephalous body. Quoting the Apostolic Canons, he said: “That is what a Synod is for: unity, for the glory of God.”

He also addressed the seminarians attending the opening service, emphasizing the connection between the bishops’ deliberations and the future of the Church. “In a real sense the work of the Holy Synod this week is undertaken for your sake, and for the sake of those whom you will one day serve,” he said.

Other discussions included the relocation of the OCA Chancery, the canonical assignments of retired clergy, and developments in relations with other Orthodox churches. The bishops also reviewed the work of the Church’s departments and commissions.

The Synod received financial and administrative reports, including the proposed 2027 budget, and confirmed recipients of the 2027 Church Planting Grants and the inaugural Growing Spaces Grants. Reports were also presented by St. Vladimir’s and St. Tikhon’s seminaries, the Pension Board, and the Office of Pastoral Life.

The meeting concluded Nov. 4 following a Divine Liturgy at the seminary and further discussions on theological education, legal matters, and clergy affairs.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCA Diocese of New York and New Jersey held its annual assembly in Princeton, New Jersey.