On Tuesday, March 18, clergymen of the southern deaneries of the Eastern American Diocese flocked to St. Mary of Egypt Church in Roswell (Atlanta), GA for the start of the Southern Great Lenten Clergy Retreat.

The morning began with a moleben to the Protectress of the Russian Diaspora ‒ the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God. The clergy greeted the three hierarchs attending the retreat: the ruling bishop of the diocese, His Eminences Nicholas, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, and Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen); and His Grace Irenei, Bishop of London & Western Europe.

Parish rector Archimandrite John (Townsend) greeted the esteemed guests.

Bishop Irenei delivered the day’s keynote address on the topic of being an effective spiritual father to one’s flock. The talk was followed by lively discussion.

After a delicious luncheon organized by the parish, Reader Timothy Zelinski briefly spoke about the activities of Holy Trinity Publications and the number of new publications being produced this year.

Fr. John reminded those gathered that a youth symposium will be held at the parish in May, and encouraged the rectors of the parishes primarily in the South to send a delegation.

The Diocesan Media Office provided the opportunity for clerics to update their directory information, as well as to purchase various photographs showcasing notable events in the life of the Diocese.

An informal discussion was then held between Metropolitan Nicholas and the attendees, where they were able to obtain necessary counsel on several important pastoral matters.

Participants of the clergy retreat served Matins in the church, during which all were able to make their confessions in order to commune of Christ’s Holy Mysteries the following day. After a lenten supper, Small Compline was served, and all then returned to their rooms to quietly reflect on the day’s events and prepare themselves to serve the following day at the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.