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The Clergy-Laity Congress of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America gathers the Church to pray, listen, and work together for the life and growth of our parishes. Rooted in the theme Rise & Build, this Congress is centered on parish development and renewal, grounded first and foremost in our shared life of worship. A deliberate decision has been made to celebrate the official Divine Liturgy of the Congress on Wednesday, while we are all together, so that clergy and lay delegates may pray as one body and partake together in the Holy Eucharist. Throughout the Congress, this emphasis on prayer continues through expanded daily chapel services, affirming that all of our deliberations and planning flow from our life in Christ.

A central goal of this Clergy-Laity Congress is to create meaningful opportunities for the voices of delegates and participants to be heard. Through guided Congress Conversations, plenary sessions, and listening opportunities, participants will reflect on important data gathered by the Archdiocese and share their insights, concerns, and hopes with one another, with the hierarchy, and with the full body of the Congress. These conversations are designed to foster thoughtful discernment, mutual understanding, and a shared vision for the future of our parishes, strengthening the synodal life of the Church.

The Congress will also offer a rich and diverse program focused on ministry at both the national and local levels. Daily ministry-focused keynotes, workshops, and panel discussions will explore the many dimensions of parish life and service. These offerings are organized into thematic tracks, allowing participants to engage deeply with areas such as parish life and safety, technology, youth and family ministries, and other essential aspects of ministry. In addition, specialized training will be available for choir members in cooperation with the National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, for Byzantine chanters through the Archdiocesan School of Byzantine Music, and for Sunday School teachers through the Department of Religious Education. While four delegates from each parish are designated to vote, the Congress offers valuable formation and learning for the fullness of parish life, encouraging parishes to send all who serve in ministry, for there is truly something for everyone.