+ Afterfeast of the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
Beloved Clergy and Parish Councils of the Metropolis of San Francisco,
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2
It is time to once again prepare for the clergy and lay leaders of our parishes to come together for our annual Clergy-Laity Assembly. This important gathering 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.
This year’s Assembly will focus on the Family Wellness Ministry of our Metropolis. The programs they have implemented are providing resources, training, support and information through seminars and workshops to church communities, individuals, families, laity and clergy, to connect through the heart for deeper Christ- centered relationships.
The Assembly will also feature workshops, informative presentations, the annual review of the Metropolis finances, the presentation and approval of the 2020 Metropolis Budget, and we will hold elections for members of the Metropolis Council as well as our representatives to the Archdiocesan Council.
The 2020 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be held at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA, beginning on Monday, February 24, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. and concluding on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. Our Metropolis Clergy are expected to remain at the Ranch for our Annual Clergy Retreat which will commence immediately following the Assembly and conclude on Wednesday, February 26 at 2:00 p.m. As specified in the 2019 Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance at the Clergy-Laity Assembly, comprised of the following:
- The Parish Priest.
- 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.
- 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. 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 the active participation of all our communities. Please come with an open mind and an open heart, ready and willing to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be a beacon of God’s love in your parishes.
With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco