Study initiated to discern pros and cons of moving the OCA Chancery to Washington, DC

At a meeting held at Saint Mark Church here on Wednesday evening, February 3, 2011, a variety of issues associated with a possible move of the Orthodox Church in America’s Chancery to Washington, DC were reviewed.

On behalf of the Holy Synod of Bishops, His Grace, Bishop Benjamin of San Francisco and the West, chaired the meeting. Also in attendance were Archpriests Alexander Garklavs and Eric G. Tosi, OCA Chancellor and Secretary respectively; Melanie Ringa, OCA Treasurer; and representatives of the Metropolitan Council, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and the Diocese of Washington.

“The subject is one that has been proposed and discussed for many, many years,” said Bishop Benjamin. “The meeting was of an exploratory nature, aimed at discerning objectively the pros and cons of such a move.”

The committee will undertake a full study of a move, taking into consideration the costs involved in retaining the Chancery offices in their current location in Syosset, NY vs. operating in Washington; potential legal ramifications; and the role of the Diocese of Washington in supporting the Metropolitan in his position as diocesan bishop; the practical aspects of operating the Church as well as historical considerations for the OCA; etc.

“A report will be prepared after a complete and thorough study,” Bishop Benjamin added. “The report will be presented to the Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council for review and guidance.”

No deadline has been established for issuing the report.