CLERGY FROM THE METROPOLIA GATHER TOGETHER IN PRAYER AND FELLOWSHIP

August 23, 2026

UNIONTOWN, Pa—Clergy of the Metropolia from all across the United States gathered in Uniontown, PA from August 23-26 to share in prayer and fellowship.
One of the most important aspects of priestly life is brotherhood. It is a shared experience that establishes bonds across age and place. For a few brief days, the clergy were able to set aside their daily lives and join with one another to share stories, pray together, and to make new memories.
The days were a combination of prayer and relaxation, affording these sometimes-weary servants of the Lord a chance to recharge their batteries so that they can return to their respective ministries reinvigorated and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
Each day began in prayer, with one of the Hours being celebrated by a member of the clergy, followed by a talk by Archbishop Nicholas. On Monday, His Eminence began the gathering by reading a greeting sent by His Beatitude, Metropolitan +ALEXY to all the clergy. He then addressed the importance of clergy mental health and not allowing fear or shame to prevent one from reaching out for help. He emphasized that we are all in this journey together and that we need to all be there for each other without judgment or hesitation, but rather with a love that models Christ. On the second day, Archbishop Nicholas spoke about the importance of being a welcoming church and made clear that everyone is welcome in our church without judgment and without question. The clergy were encouraged to put aside any prejudices or preconceived notions that might be in their minds to welcome the stranger and make them feel at home in our churches. He reminded them of the famous quote from St. John Chrysostom describing the church as a hospital for the sick as opposed to a courtroom.
Following the morning session, the clergy enjoyed some lunch and time to socialize or get some well-deserved rest. Each evening began with Vespers celebrated by one of the clergy and a talk on the priesthood. On Monday, His Eminence, Archbishop Alexios, gave a spiritual talk on the priesthood that drew from the Fathers of the Church as well as from his own experiences. It was a heartfelt and moving talk that prompted great response. On Tuesday, they were graced with a reflection on priesthood by Mitred Archpriest Elias Yelovich. He shared stories of priesthood and offered advice on how to handle priestly life in today’s world.
Immediately following all four talks there was time for group discussion which, rather than having been planned, just arose organically from the clergy. It was inspiring to hear the individual members share reflections with the group, ask questions, and speak from the heart. During the course of the days, the clergy also discussed establishing a fund to help to cover costs for travel and lodging for those members who cannot afford the trip, most especially those who reside outside the US.