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OCA Seeks $60,000 to Support Thriving in Ministry Program
The OCA is seeking $60,000 to sustain a growing ministry that connects priests and clergy wives through prayer, fellowship, and mutual support.
SPRINGFIELD, VA — The Orthodox Church in America’s (OCA) Office of Pastoral Life is seeking $60,000 to support the Thriving in Ministry program, which provides peer support and fellowship for priests and clergy wives.
The program began in the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania and has since expanded throughout the Orthodox Church with support from Lilly Endowment. Today, 28 active peer groups include approximately 156 participants. In Eastern Pennsylvania, about half of active parish-assigned priests and one-third of clergy wives have participated in the program.
Thriving in Ministry brings clergy and clergy wives together regularly for prayer, candid conversation, friendship, and practical guidance. According to Abp. Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, these relationships help combat isolation, strengthen clergy households, and contribute to healthier parish life.
The Office of Pastoral Life’s fundraising campaign runs from Aug. 15 through Oct. 15. About $5,000 is needed to sustain one peer group for a year, with contributions welcomed from individuals, parishes, dioceses, and foundations.
Abp. Mark urged hierarchs, clergy, parishes, and faithful to support the initiative, emphasizing that strengthening those who serve the Church ultimately strengthens the parishes and communities entrusted to their care.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCA hosted an inaugural retreat for clergy wives.
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