Presentation by Protodeacon Peter Danilchick
on December 5, 2021 at 6:00 pm Eastern Time via ZOOM
Followed by a Panel Discussion with George Karcazes, Alexei Krindatch
and Dr. Gayle Woloschak
For more than three decades, Orthodox Christian Laity (OCL) has presented informative and educational programs annually and at other times featuring distinguished speakers, thoughtful panels and relevant topics in fulfillment of its mission. This mission includes: advancing the renewal of the Orthodox Christian Church in America by advocating that the laity remain part of the conciliar governance process which provides balance to the hierarchy and clergy, all working together in governance, spiritual and other matters to ensure accountability and transparency in the affairs of the Church. OCL’s overarching goal is to contribute to and work toward the establishment of an administratively and canonically unified, self-governing Orthodox Church in North America.
All of us yearn for that unity that Jesus prayed for: “Father, that they may be one as we are, that the world may know that You have sent me.” (John 17:21) Sometimes, despite all our hopes, that dream seems unattainable. But Jesus encourages us: “The things that I do you shall do – and greater things than these shall you do” (John 14:12). And what exactly can these things be? What is possible for each one of us?
Protodeacon Peter will challenge us with the fact that we are all, every one of us, called to be servant leaders, in service to God, His Church, and His people. He will review the work of the Assembly of Bishops in fostering church unity. He will offer practical ways for us to become partners in recent efforts towards creating unity on the grassroots parish level. He will help us to “dare and do great things” in bringing about the blessed unity of the Church that we all desire.
