10/23/2026
Council of Oriental Orthodox Churches in the Western USA Convenes to Advance Unity and Announce 2027 Joint Initiatives
October,22 2026
NORTHRIDGE, Calif. — October 21, 2026 — Hierarchs and designated representatives of the Council of the Oriental Orthodox Churches in the Western USA convened at St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church in Northridge, California. The meeting was held under the auspices of His Eminence Metropolitan Serapion of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Los Angeles and welcomed prominent jurisdictional leaders, including:
• His Eminence Mor Clemis Eugene Kaplan, Metropolitan of the Syriac Orthodox Church;
• His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America; and
• Rev. Fr. Fr Ghevont Kirazian was the Official Representative of His Eminence Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America.
The meeting began with a joint prayer in the church, after which everyone gathered in the meeting room where Metropolitan Serapion delivered a welcoming address that set the tone for a fruitful dialogue focused on reaffirming the Council's mission and expanding cooperation among the churches. Discussions centered on strengthening pastoral ties, engaging younger generations, and fostering practical integration among parishes across the western United States.
Key Highlights & Decisions for 2027
• Joint Clergy Meeting and Divine Liturgy: The Council confirmed a major pan-Orthodox clergy gathering on Thursday, May 13, 2027, hosted at St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church. The program will bring clergy together for a joint Divine Liturgy and an inspiring spiritual message from the host Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Los Angeles.
• Sunday School and Youth Ministries: Delegates prioritized targeted youth initiatives, approving plans for a combined Sunday School gathering featuring joint spiritual reflections and interactive fellowship. The Council will also roll out expanded ministry programs tailored specifically for young adults (ages 18–25) over the coming year.
• Regional Clergy and Parish Directory: To foster direct communication and streamline inter-jurisdictional administration, the Council initiated a comprehensive update to its official church directory.
Looking Ahead
After deliberating on new business, the Council scheduled its next quarterly assembly for Thursday, January 28, 2027, at 11:00 AM, to be held at St. Ephraim Syriac Orthodox Church.
The gathering concluded with a closing benediction followed by a traditional Agape meal, reaffirming the lasting fraternity and shared heritage among the sister Oriental Orthodox Churches.
