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At the invitation of His Eminence Archbishop Michael of New York and New Jersey, His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon presided at the annual Assembly of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey, held October 29–30, 2026, at the Church of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow, in Princeton, NJ. Accompanying His Beatitude was Archpriest Alessandro Margheritino, Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America.
On Thursday, October 29, His Beatitude presided at the Divine Liturgy opening the Assembly. Concelebrating with him were Archbishop Michael, Fr. Alessandro, Archpriest David Cowan, Vice Chancellor of the Diocese, and other diocesan clergy.
In his homily, His Beatitude reflected on the unity of the Church and the responsibility to welcome those seeking Christ, emphasizing the Apostle Paul’s call to speak with grace:
“Our task is not to win arguments, but to bring each person to Christ and to walk with them in His Church.”
He concluded by exhorting the clergy and faithful: “Let us ask, not that our burdens be lifted, but that the door of the word remain open. Let our speech be with grace, seasoned with salt. And let us gather with Christ, and not scatter, so that this diocese may be a house that stands.”
Read the full text of His Beatitude’s homily
Following the Divine Liturgy and lunch, the Assembly convened for its business session, which included Archbishop Michael’s address, reports from diocesan officers and ministries, and consideration of the Diocese’s financial and pastoral responsibilities.
On Friday, October 30, His Beatitude and Father Alessandro addressed the clergy, lay delegates, and observers as part of the Assembly’s second day, devoted to presentations and workshops. Following a Molieben, His Beatitude delivered an address entitled “The Present Life of the Orthodox Church in America.”
Father Alessandro then offered “Reflections from the Chancellor’s Office,” discussing the pastoral responsibilities of Church administration, autocephaly and conciliarity, and the relocation of the Metropolitan’s residence and Chancery to Washington, DC. He also highlighted efforts to support growing missions and care for clergy and their families. Both presentations included time for questions and discussion.
The afternoon sessions featured presentations by Dr. William Marianes of Stewardship Calling Ministries on forming disciples of Christ and supporting the financial needs of parish ministry.
