Beloved Clergy and Parish Councils of the Metropolis of San Francisco,

Each year the clergy and leaders of our parishes gather for our annual Clergy-Laity Assembly which provides us with the opportunity to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church.

The 2013 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be held February 25 – 26 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. As specified in the Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance, comprised of the following:

1. The Parish Priest.
2. The President of the Parish Council, and in his or her absence the Vice President, or in his or her absence any member of the Parish Council designated by it.
3. Two members of the Parish elected by the Parish Assembly.

Please make sure this important item is placed on the agenda of your upcoming Parish Assembly Meeting so that you may elect these delegates to ensure full participation from your parish.

As you may know, the Metropolis initiated a Strategic Planning Process in July 2012. During our Clergy-Laity Assembly, we will present an overview of our progress and encourage feedback to further enhance our work as the Strategic Plan is finalized. In addition to the Strategic Plan, the Assembly will review and approve the 2013 Metropolis Budget, as well as provide important resources for your parish through the work of our committees and ministries. A detailed agenda and registration materials will be provided no later than 60 days prior to the convening of the Assembly.

I look forward to your participation and I am grateful for the leadership you offer throughout the year to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be a beacon of God’s love in your communities.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco