The Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America held its Fall 2025 Session from October 8–9 in Springfield and McLean, VA. This marked the first meeting of the Council since the 21st All-American Council in Phoenix, AZ, and included the participation of six newly elected at-large members, along with new diocesan representatives. His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon opened the session with a molieben and delivered a report reflecting on the life and example of Saint Tikhon, encouraging members to approach their work as an expression of unity in Christ. He also commended the dedicated work of the Chancery staff in supporting the Church’s mission.

Over the course of the two-day meeting, the Council received a series of reports from Church officers and department heads. Chancellor Archpriest Alessandro Margheritino provided updates on staff changes, departmental reorganization, and upcoming priorities. Reports also came from the Pension Board, legal counsel, and the auditing firm Satty, Levine & Ciacco, which confirmed the Church’s stable financial health. Updates were also provided on the recent All-American Council and preliminary planning for the next one, scheduled for Dallas, TX, in 2028. New candidates for the Church Planting Grants program were presented, pending Holy Synod approval, and updates were given on pastoral initiatives and Council orientation.

The session continued with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on October 9 in honor of the Feast of the Glorification of Saint Tikhon, followed by additional reports from the Property Committee, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Council approved the proposed 2026 budget and reappointed the current internal auditors for another three-year term. His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon closed the session by thanking Council members for their continued service, and the meeting concluded with prayer.