ROCOR Eastern American Diocese Assembly Concludes with Liturgy at Novo-Diveevo

NYACK, NY — Metr. Nicholas of Eastern America and New York urged clergy to show greater personal care for parishioners, strengthen youth ministry, and sustain active parish communities in his 2026 State of the Diocese address at the Eastern American Diocese’s triennial assembly on October 22.

Reflecting on the challenges facing Orthodox Christians amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Metr. Nicholas emphasized the responsibility of pastors to welcome and support people experiencing anxiety and uncertainty. “Pastors must be especially attentive to their parishioners, taking care not to alienate those who come to the church through indifference or a lack of concern,” he said.

The hierarch also stressed that church buildings and Sunday schools must be supported by meaningful programs and dedicated educators. “Children and teenagers within the parish should be engaged in meaningful and interesting activities. All such buildings and spiritual centers must be filled with life,” he said.

His address reviewed developments across the diocese over the past three years, including the restoration of the Synodal Headquarters in New York, new clergy ordinations, church consecrations, missionary work, monastic life, and youth conferences. As of October 15, the diocese comprised 135 parishes and missionary communities, 13 monastic communities, and seven chapels, with 322 clergy serving throughout the diocese.

The assembly concluded on October 23 with Divine Liturgy at Holy Dormition Convent Novo-Diveevo in Nanuet, NY, celebrated by Metr. Nicholas alongside diocesan hierarchs and clergy. During the service, he recognized several clergymen for their service to the Church.

In closing his address, Metr. Nicholas encouraged the faithful to face coming challenges with prayer and trust in Christ: “Let us pray that the Lord may bless us in the years to come – years which may not be the easiest – but, as the Apostle Paul says: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me’ (Phil. 4:13).”

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Nicholas led 40th-anniversary celebrations at Holy Cross Monastery.