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# ROCOR Diocese Requires Written Blessing for Clergy Online Ministries
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/rocor-diocese-requires-written-blessing-for-clergy-online-ministries/
- Published: 2026-10-20T15:41:29.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-20T15:41:29.000Z
- Description: ROCOR’s Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America has imposed written-approval requirements on clergy-run online ministries, while directing digital activity toward parish life and pastoral responsibilities.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, ROCOR, Orthodoxy in the Digital Age, Digital Ministry, Social media, Orthodoxy in America

**CHICAGO —** As reported by [OrthoChristian](https://orthochristian.com/180932.html?fbclid=IwdGRleAVDFcZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mBWZkaWQWUQlIcsIDWZ48KZxodO6XgLy5jEqQtnNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR4lyErLdlNGW62Pz%5FvJEkiYZISBgK7AtxxM0gy8pbD1wpiraBi8QSjwYim2dg%5Faem%5FiA7rdhxnS2LU5FepX0EfpA), clergy in the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia’s (ROCOR) Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America must obtain written episcopal approval to operate online ministries under a new social media policy issued by Bp. Spyridon of Chicago and Mid-America. The policy states that unauthorized ministries must immediately cease operations and be deleted.

The policy establishes limits on digital pastoral work, including prohibiting clergy from accepting remote spiritual children and requiring catechism to take place in a parish. Confession and ongoing spiritual guidance should ordinarily occur in person. Clergy are also instructed to use online platforms to direct people toward parish worship, fellowship, Confession, and Communion rather than building personal followings.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/07/rocor-diocese-adopts-social-media-policy-for-clergy-8c13b9dd8aec.jpg)On this topicROCOR Diocese Adopts Social Media Policy for Clergy](https://uoj.news/news/rocor-diocese-adopts-social-media-policy-for-clergy/)

In a circular letter dated September 25/October 8, 2026, Bp. Spyridon said the diocese had become known among ROCOR’s bishops for its online activity, “particularly because of the online activity of some of our clergy—and, unfortunately, not always in a positive way.” 

The policy applies to diocesan clergy, those in the lesser orders, lay employees, and volunteers. It supersedes all previous permissions, and existing online ministries must obtain approval under the new requirements. Oral blessings do not qualify, and the bishop may withdraw permission at any time and for any reason.

Clergy must also receive diocesan approval for media appearances, including podcasts and YouTube programs. Public accounts operated by clergy or monastics require a blessing, although personal accounts for family and friends and parish accounts for communicating with parishioners are permitted, provided they do not become personal brands. Monastics are expected to maintain little or no online presence.

Financial restrictions prohibit clergy from charging for catechetical materials, endorsing products, or accepting commercial sponsorship. Revenue generated by an approved online ministry must belong to the parish or ministry rather than the priest. The policy further directs clergy to refrain from publicly criticizing other Orthodox jurisdictions and from online disputes involving Church affairs, politics, or personal disagreements.

Bp. Spyridon encouraged priests to keep their primary responsibilities in their parishes, cautioning that conferences and other activities should not distract from pastoral duties. At the same time, he acknowledged the importance of online outreach, particularly for younger people. Clergy seeking permission must submit a written request detailing the ministry’s purpose, scope, frequency, platforms, rationale, qualifications, time commitment, financial arrangements, and legal structure. Priests are presumptively permitted to participate in their parish’s social media, newsletters, websites, and livestreams of services.

![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/10/501707.b-1.jpg)

Photos: orthochristian.com

![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/10/501709.b-1.jpg)

![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/10/501710.b-1.jpg)

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Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/church-of-greece-examines-clergys-online-presence-and-social-media-risks/) the Church of Greece examined clergy’s online presence and social media risks.