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The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston, with the blessing and encouragement of His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, warmly invites Parish Council Presidents, Parish Council members, ministry leaders, and faithful representatives from throughout the Metropolis to participate in the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, to be held June 30–July 2, 2026, at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Centered on the theme “Rise & Build” the Clergy-Laity Congress brings together clergy and laity from across the Archdiocese to pray, listen, and work collaboratively for the continued growth and strengthening of our parishes and ministries. This sacred gathering offers an opportunity for delegates to engage in meaningful dialogue, fellowship, and planning for the future of the Church, while remaining firmly grounded in our shared life in Christ.
Participants are invited to join together with the faithful of the Archdiocese to gather in Cleveland for this important moment in the life of our Church. Reflecting on the theme “Rise & Build,” the Congress will serve as an opportunity to listen to the voices of our parishes, discern the needs of our communities, and work together to strengthen Orthodox ministry for future generations.
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Participants
Whether you serve in the altar, sing in the choir, teach in the classroom, lead within your parish, or are involved in one of our national ministries, the Clergy-Laity Congress provides opportunities for all participants to grow through connecting, learning, and building together as we gather under the theme Rise & Build (Nehemiah 2:18).
All participants - delegate and non-delegate participants alike - may attend keynote addresses, workshops, panels, ministry sessions, liturgical services, and special events. Only official parish delegates may participate in legislative voting.
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Delegates
What Is a Delegate?
A delegate is an official representative to the Clergy-Laity Congress, which is comprised of the Archbishop, Synod members, Auxiliary Bishops, designated Archdiocesan and Metropolis leaders, and clergy and lay representatives from each Parish.
Parishes in good financial standing are represented by their Parish Priest, Parish Council President (or appropriate substitute), and two elected Parish Assembly members. Delegates must be members in good standing.
A Parish which is not current in its financial obligations to the Archdiocese may be authorized to participate in the Congress by its respective Hierarch.
What Does A Delegate Do?
Delegates exercise one personal vote on each matter before the Congress, without proxy. Following the Congress, delegates shall provide their Parish with a written report of the proceedings and share any official materials distributed at the next Parish Assembly.
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Non-Delegate Participants
What Is a Non-Delegate Participant?
The Clergy-Laity Congress is not only for parish delegates. It is a gathering of the whole Church, and we warmly welcome all who are committed to the life and growth of the Church to join us as non-delegate participants in Cleveland.
What Does A Non-Delegate Participant Do?
Although non-delegate participants are not involved with legislative voting, they are fully welcomed into the educational, spiritual, and collaborative life of the Clergy-Laity Congress, which exists to strengthen parish ministry across the Archdiocese. Non-delegate participants include:
- Retired clergy
- Second or Assistant Clergy
- Pastoral Assistants
- Active, retired & widowed Presvyteres
- Chanters & Church musicians
- Religious educators
- Parish ministry leaders & volunteers
- Members of Archdiocesan organizations & institutions
- Members of affiliated groups including the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Leadership 100, National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians & other Church-related organizations
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Participant Registration Pricing
Participant registration includes: access to the conference, Welcome Reception, the cultural event at the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame & the Grand Banquet, and lunch from June 30-July 2, 2026. Any additional tickets must be purchased separately.
Parish & Clergy Delegates
Non-Delegate Attendees
$700 USD
Presvyteres, Retired Clergy
& Retired Presvyteres
$200 USD **
**Discounted registration available to non-delegate attendees. Discount code available within registration.
Ministry Training Participants*
$200 USD**
*Sunday School teachers, Byzantine Music Chanters, National Forum of Choir Members, and Youth and Young Adult Ministry Leaders.
**Discounted registration available to non-delegate attendees for a limited time only. Discount code available within registration.
Additional Tickets
The following are available add-ons to your registration.
Child Registration (ages 2-17)
(Includes conference access & lunch)
$0 USD
Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame
Guest Ticket
$125 USD
Grand Banquet
Guest Ticket
$175 USD
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Sponsorship Opportunities
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has announced sponsorship and donation opportunities in support of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress, which will take place June 30–July 2, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio. Hosted by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh under the leadership of His Eminence Metropolitan Savas Zembillas, the Congress will gather clergy and faithful from across the Archdiocese under the theme “Rise & Build.”
To help support this important gathering of the Church, a special fundraising initiative titled Cornerstone has been launched with a goal of $750,000. Sponsorship opportunities and donor recognition levels are available for individuals, organizations, and communities wishing to contribute toward the success of the Congress and its ministries. Donations may be made online through the official Clergy-Laity Congress website or by mail.
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