Preliminary steps taken in planning the 16th All-American Counci
SYOSSET, NY [OCA Communications] — The first steps in planning the 16th All-American Council of the Orthodox Church in America were taken on Thursday, July 9, 2009, as His Beatitude Metropolitan Jonah met with the Very Revs. Eric G. Tosi, OCA Secretary, and Myron Manzuk, manager of the 12th to 15th All-American Councils; and Mr. Peter Ilchuk, former Chancery employee and council organizer. Also present were representatives from Conference Direct, the conference planning company that has assisted the OCA in selecting locations and venues for the last four All-American Councils.
It is projected that the 16th All-American Council will be held in late October or early November 2011. Metropolitan Jonah was briefed on the logistical and organizational issues surrounding the planning of an All-American Council. Among the issues discussed was the expected time line for planning the Council, which includes the appointment of a Preconciliar Commission and local committees.
While major cities across the US may be considered, the Holy Synod has identified the priority of finding a location in the Diocese of the West, where there has never been and All-American Council. Another important priority is selecting a site that will encourage greater participation of delegates and guests from the Diocese of Alaska. A list of possible locations currently being explored will be presented at the Fall 2009 joint session of the Holy Synod of Bishops and Metropolitan Council.
“High on the list of priorities for the next All-American Council will be the Strategic Plan and possible Statute revisions to reflect the results of this plan,” said Father Eric. “The next two years will be dedicated to formulating the Strategic Plan in a manner that will offer all the levels of the Church’s membership the opportunity to offer input.”
