Conference of the District Council of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad – District Outside Russia

MEETING OF THE DISTRICT COUNCIL

9 October 2026

Present

Bishop Andrei and members of the District Council.

Archbishop Sofrony attended the meeting by invitation.

1. Candidates for the Episcopate of the North American Diocese

The need for episcopal leadership for the North American Diocese was discussed. Fr. Nikita Grigoriev and Fr. Timothy Clader described significant personal and family circumstances that prevent them from accepting the episcopate. They noted that their circumstances might change in the future, but that at present they do not consider it possible. Those present urged Fr. Sergey Klestov to take the needs of the Church into consideration and assured him of their support. Fr. Sergey Klestov was nominated as the principal candidate for episcopal consecration.

2. Relations with the Genuine Orthodox Church of Greece and the accusation concerning “Name-Worshipping” (Imiaslavie)

Reports were received that our parishioners had been refused Holy Communion in some churches of the Genuine Orthodox Church (GOC) in America, allegedly at the direction of Metropolitan Demetrius. The stated reason was the accusation that Bishop Andrei confesses the heresy of Imiaslavie (Name-Worshipping).

Bishop Andrei stated that he had neither published nor officially set forth his position on this matter. He explained that, in his view, the question has not received a definitive dogmatic resolution by any authoritative church Council and therefore requires a cautious approach.

Members of the District Council expressed the view that any accusation must be formulated precisely and accompanied by a clear exposition of the teaching considered heretical. The meeting also discussed whether it would be advisable to issue a public statement concerning Imiaslavie.

The broader question of relations with the GOC was also discussed, including reports that our clergy had been received into the GOC without letters of release, and that some clergy ordained by Archbishop Andronik had been received into the GOC through cheirothesia. Those present expressed concern that the issue of Imiaslavie might lead to a further breakdown in relations.

It was resolved that Bishop Andrei would contact Metropolitan Demetrius and discuss the matter in private correspondence. Preparation of a written explanation of the Church’s approach to the question of Imiaslavie was postponed.

3. Inquiry from Priest Fr. M.

Fr. M., an Orthodox priest from Italy, expressed a desire to join the ROCA Diaspora District. Those present noted that the circumstances of his priestly ordination involve several jurisdictions and require examination. It was considered desirable to contact Fr. M. by videoconference, with Bishop Andrei and the Administrative Council of the North American diocese participating. Fr. M.’s explanations must be heard, and the documents concerning his ordination and canonical status must be examined before a decision is made about the possibility of receiving him. Practical matters relating to travel, immigration status, and possible financial assistance must also be assessed.

Bishop Andrei
Secretary of the District Council