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On May 5, 2023, the Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America, with the blessing of the Holy Synod of Bishops, approved Phoenix, AZ as the location of the 21st All-American Council. The venue for the 21st AAC will be the Arizona Grand Resort and it will take place from July 14-18, 2025.
In announcing the location, the Council Manager Protodeacon Peter Ilchuk said “I am excited that we are able to bring the All American Council to the American Southwest for the first time and once again be hosted by the Diocese of the West. Unlike previous council venues, The Arizona Grand Resort & Spa is a destination itself and a great location for families to gather.”
At the end of March 2023, Archpriest Alexander Rentel, OCA Chancellor, and Priest Alessandro Margheretino, OCA Secretary, travelled to Arizona to assess the suitability of the location. Father Alessandro reports, “Father Alexander and I were very impressed with the property when we visited back in March. The resort is beautiful and provides ample meeting space for the needs of our Council. I note that participants at the 20th All-American Council indicated the South West on the survey as the preferred location for the next Council. We are happy that Phoenix was available and offered a great opportunity to us. Additionally, we were able to obtain a reduced room rate and resort fee and a number of other incentives, which make this location all the more attractive.”
The Arizona Grand Resort offers the largest water park in Arizona, several dining options, a golf course, spa, and athletic club. A special rate of $159.00 per night (including resort fees) is being offered for delegates. Each room includes a separate living area and four complementary admissions to the waterpark.
The Metropolitan Council also approved the formation of the Preconciliar Commission consisting of Archpriest Alexander Rentel, Priest Alessandro Margheritino, Mr. Andrew Smith (OCA Treasurer), Deacon Peter Ilchuk, Archpriest Andrew Jarmus, Ms. Lynnell McFarland, Ms. Hollie Benton.
As defined in the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America, “the All-American Council is the highest legislative and administrative authority within the Church. The Council brings together the various elements of the Church to bear witness to her identity, unity, and mission.”
More information will be released as it becomes available.
