Resolutions of the Southern Deanery Clergy Conference of the Eastern America Diocese Russian Orthodox Church Abroad

November 13, 2000

1. We, the participants of the Clergy Conference gathered together in the parish church of the Holy Icon of the Mother of

God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" in Cumming, Georgia, under the omophorion of His Grace, Bishop Gabriel of Manhattan, express our sincere gratitude to the Council of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad for its efforts to the glory of God and His Holy Church, culminating in the Conciliar Epistle issued by our hierarchs in the city of New York on October 27, 2000.

2. As underscored in the Conciliar Epistle of the Council of Bishops, it is imperative that spiritual growth among the clergy and faithful of the Church be encouraged. Lack of piety results in a negative impact on the witness of our Church. Time spent in condemning the faults of others is time wasted, time better devoted to prayer for their correction.

3. We urge that, in making public statements, all members of our clergy exercise caution, discretion and Christian love. Let us

remember that any and all pronouncements made by a clergyman may reflect upon the entire Church.