WESTERN AMERICAN DIOCESE: 10 November 2026
The Western American Diocese holds a conference and clergy retreat to coincide with the feast day of the Cathedral of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" in San Francisco

The Fall pastoral retreat of the Western American Diocese took place on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026, at Old Holy Virgin Cathedral in San Francisco, CA. Presiding over the retreat was His Eminence Archbishop Kyrill of San Francisco and Western America. His Grace Bishop James of Sonora, His Grace Bishop Peter of Seattle, and 40 clergymen—priests and deacons of the diocese—participated.

Archbishop Kyrill asked that Archpriest David Moser, Rector of Saint Seraphim of Sarov Church in Boise, ID, open the gathering with a word about the exalted calling of the priesthood, how both a priest’s outward behavior and inner life must reflect the mind of Christ, and how the Traditions of the Church form him.

His Eminence then spoke at length about priestly attire and the great importance of the priest’s public witness. Vladyka shared several personal accounts of how wearing clerical garb in public had a positive influence, inspiring questions from passersby and at times evoking reverence in complete strangers.

The retreat participants then retired to the cathedral for Divine Services glorifying the Holy Apostle James, Brother of the Lord.

The half-day retreat was completed with a hearty meal prepared by the Sisterhood of the Old Cathedral and warm fellowship as the clergy caught up with old friends and colleagues and met face-to-face with many new clergy of our Diocese.

The Diocesan Assembly of the Western American Diocese, covering the three-year period from 2023 to 2025, was held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the Old Holy Virgin Cathedral in San Francisco, California. The Assembly was presided over by His Eminence KYRILL, Archbishop of San Francisco and Western America.

The day began with Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Priest Andri Gliga of St. Herman of Alaska Church in Sunnyvale, California. During the service, special petitions were offered for the “Beginning of Every Good Work.” The clergy of the Diocese served as chanters.

Among those participating in the Assembly were the First Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese, His Grace JAMES, Bishop of Sonora; the Second Auxiliary Bishop, Bishop Peter; and His Grace Nicholas (Soriach). Also in attendance were 95 registered delegates, representing the clergy and laity of the parishes and monasteries of the Western American Diocese.

In his report, Archbishop Kyrill spoke about the growth of diocesan missions and the increase in the number of clergy, while also addressing several areas of need and concern.

The Diocesan Treasurer, Bishop James, presented a financial report detailing the income and expenditures for the period under review. The report covered both the regular operating expenses and other financial activities of the Diocese.

Among the charitable contributions made during this period were $100,000 toward renovations of the building housing the Synod of Bishops in New York City and $10,000 in support of Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary in Jordanville, New York, on the occasion of its 75th anniversary. The auditor’s report was then read, noting that the financial records of the diocesan treasury had been maintained in good order.

The members of the Diocesan Council were elected for the next three-year term.

The Assembly also received and accepted the reports of the Diocesan Department Chairmen and the Deans of the various deaneries.

The Assembly proceeded through its agenda in an orderly and efficient manner, with ample opportunity for questions and discussion arising from the reports. The gathering was marked by a spirit of goodwill and unanimity.

On November 6, 2026, the feast of the Icon of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow,” Archbishop Kyrill presided at Divine Liturgy at Holy Virgin Cathedral “Joy of All Who Sorrow” in San Francisco on the occasion of its patronal feast.

Concelebrating with His Eminence were Bishop James, Bishop Peter, Bishop Nicholas; and numerous clergy of the diocese. Archpriest Stefan Pavlenko led the clergy of priestly rank.