NEW YORK – On Monday, April 6, 2020, the Holy Eparchial Synod convened via teleconference, in order to discuss significant matters that affect the Archdiocese of America, and unanimously decided the following:

1. The sacred services of our Orthodox tradition for Holy Week and Easter will continue to be observed in the Parishes and the Monasteries following the directives of the local Metropolitans and in accordance to the mandates of the respective State and Health authorities. Therefore, the “closed-doors” policy will be strictly enforced, the services will be broadcasted via the internet and they will be celebrated only with the participation of the priest, the chanter, and the acolyte.

2. Abiding by the regulations of the aforementioned State and Health authorities, there will be absolutely no distribution of the traditional material offerings to the faithful, including palms, candles, Holy Unction, flowers, eggs and the Paschal Light.

3. Spiritual guidance may be provided remotely using technological means, but the Sacrament of Holy Confession and the Prayer of Absolution cannot be offered via the telephone or via electronic media.

4. This year’s National Clergy-Laity Congress will be held through an internet teleconference forum on a date to be announced in the near future.

FROM THE CHIEF SECRETARIAT OF THE HOLY EPARCHIAL SYNOD

Post expires at 1:00pm on Sunday April 19th, 2020