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The 14th Annual Diaconal Liturgical Practicum of the Orthodox Church in America’s Diaconal Vocations Program [DVP] will be held at Saint Seraphim of Sarov Cathedral, Santa Rosa, CA July 26-29, 2021.
This year’s program once again will offer intense practical liturgical training for deacons and lay diaconal candidates. Supper, prayer, and an opening session will launch the Practicum at 5 p.m. on Monday, July 26. The Practicum will conclude on Thursday, July 29, with hierarchical Divine Liturgy and a festive lunch.
During the program, practical liturgical training will focus on the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and other services. Intensive workshops will provide each participant with skills needed to serve effectively as an attentive server, deacon, or priest. In addition, focused presentations will augment the deacon’s understanding of his place in the liturgical life of the Church and his broader vocation as a symbol to the faithful of the diakonia, or ministry, of Jesus Christ.
“This practicum is highly recommended by the Holy Synod of Bishops for participants in the Church’s programs of diaconal formation,” said Archpriest Kirill Sokolov, Director of Diaconal and Late Vocations and leader of the Practicum’s liturgical workshops. “In addition to liturgical practice, sessions will also cover chanting and vocal technique and address teaching our faith.”
A talented faculty of accomplished priests, deacons, and musicians will coach participants. The Practicum is offered with the blessing of His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon with oversight by the Board of Theological Education of the Orthodox Church in America. This year’s session is taking place in Santa Rosa with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin (Orthodox Church in America) and His Eminence Archbishop Kyrill (Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia). His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin and His Grace Bishop Daniel will be present during the practicum.
Participation in this rigorous program is limited and available on a first-come basis. Information on registration, accommodations, and travel is now available online. “We are grateful to God for the improving public health situation allowing us to now organize this training,” explains Father Kirill.
Questions and other enquiries should be directed to the Diaconal Vocations Program at dvp@oca.org.
