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Five decades of dedicated work in our church music ministry by the National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians are culminating in a year-long Golden Anniversary celebration. This historic milestone celebration kicks off at the 2026 Clergy Laity Congress. It was at the Clergy Laity Congress fifty years ago when the National Forum’s charter was granted by Archbishop Iakovos of blessed memory.
The National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians is working feverishly to provide events and workshops during the 2026 Clergy Laity Congress that will appeal to all individuals who work in the music ministry of our church. The National Forum invites choir directors, choir members, chanters, clergy, Sunday Church School administrators and teachers to ‘rise and build’ in their commitment to and understanding of our Church’s sacred music to build stronger, more vibrant parish music ministries.
Additionally, the National Forum choir will sing in the Clergy Laity Congress Opening Ceremony, the Synodal Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and the Grand Banquet. Be sure to make a point of visiting two Ministry Village booths—learn more about our work in church music ministry by visiting the ministry booth, but don’t miss a special ‘Meli’ booth. The ‘Meli’, or Music Education Leadership Initiative, booth will offer an interactive opportunity to see first hand a comprehensive program which offers in-depth modules in choir director training, general musicians training, youth hymnody education and a dedicated clergy track as well, emphasizing vocal training and voice preservation.
There will be a special emphasis on youth during the congress, including a very unique workshop offered by EIKONA entitled “Building the Next Generation: A Youth Music Jam Session with EIKONA.” Additionally, all youth in attendance will sing at all events with the National Forum choir. Among those children will be the Junior and Senior Division winners of our first Metropolis-wide Saint Romanos Church Music Festivals.
The prestigious Saint Romanos Medallion, awarded to those who have offered extraordinary service in church music ministry on a national level, will be presented by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America during a celebratory 50th Anniversary Luncheon during the congress.
The celebration doesn’t end at the Clergy Laity Congress! Year-long celebratory events are being developed and will occur throughout the Archdiocese throughout 2026 and 2027.
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