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Cleveland, OH — With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America – Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries (Y2AM), in collaboration with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh, is pleased to announce that registration for the 2026 National Young Adult League (YAL) Conference will open on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST. 

The 2026 National YAL Conference will take place July 1–5, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio, and will be held at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower. The Conference is graciously hosted by His Eminence Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh, and will bring together Orthodox Christian young adults ages 18-35 from across the country for a meaningful, dynamic, and spiritually enriching experience. 

Supported by a generous grant from Leadership 100, along with additional key donors, the 2026 National YAL Conference is intentionally designed to inspire and equip participants through thoughtful reflection, meaningful dialogue, and practical engagement. This year’s theme, “Rise and Build – Claim Your Calling,” intentionally complements the theme of the 48th Biennial Clergy–Laity Congress, inviting young adults to carry this shared vision forward within the life of the Church. 

As young adults continue to establish themselves in both faith and life, many feel called to deeper involvement in their home parishes—often with questions about where to begin, how to serve meaningfully, and how their unique gifts can best be offered. Participants will be challenged to rise in faith and actively build healthy, vibrant parish communities through deeper engagement, leadership, and service. 

Rooted in the four pillars of YAL Ministry—worship, witness, service, and fellowship—the Conference experience will empower attendees to return home with clarity, confidence, and a renewed commitment to live out their calling within their parish communities.  

Conference highlights include thoughtfully curated workshops led by engaging speakers, participation in select portions of the 48th Biennial Clergy–Laity Congress, and meaningful service through the Conference “Diakonia” Project. This project is a longstanding and integral component of the biennial National YAL Conference, made possible through the generous support and continued partnership of the National Philoptochos Society. 

The experience will also feature a Beach Volleyball Tournament and special view of the exciting Cleveland fireworks over Lake Erie in celebration of Independence Day and the 250th Anniversary of America. The Conference will conclude on Sunday, July 5, 2026, with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. 

John Panos has been appointed by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros to serve as 2026 National YAL Conference Chair. He is leading a dynamic Planning Committee comprised of young adult representatives from various Metropolises of the Archdiocese. Cassiani Kateyiannis and Elaina Stamas serve as Vice Chairs of the Conference. 

Executive Conference Committee Members include: Sophia Agathis, Gia Bodea, Julianna Bottomley, Rosa Domingot, Sophia Goussetis, Ellie Ionnides, Eli Kapourales, Jamie Karras, Kaitlin Kaye, Natalia Kellamis, Nikitas Koulianos, Elyssa Koutrodimos, Aliki Pappas, Christina Paris, Evy Pyle, Lee Satarelli, Maria Tsarnas. 

Oversight of the 2026 National YAL Conference will be under the guidance of Eva Konstantakos, Director of the National Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries (Y2AM), together with Conference Advisor Archon Dr. James Schooley, Metropolis of Pittsburgh Y2AM Director Alyssa Kyritsis, and Spiritual Advisor and National Chancellor His Grace Bishop Nektarios of Diokleia. 

Registration Information 

The Conference registration and hotel reservation links will go live on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST at www.clergylaity.org/yalconference. Registration includes meals, events, workshops, transportation to Conference activities, and more. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to register early. 

To contribute to the YAL Conference Ministry, visit www.clergylaity.org/donate and choose your designation as “National YAL Conference.” Your contribution will play a crucial role in impacting and empowering young adults within the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. 

For the latest news, announcements, and updates, follow the Conference on social media:
@yalnationalconference on Instagram and Facebook 

For questions or additional information, please contact: yal@goarch.org

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