The 2026 OCA Pastoral Retreat took place from September 29 through October 2 at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois.
About 100 bishops, priests, and deacons participated in the gathering. Its theme was “The Fields Are Ripe for the Harvest.” The retreat set aside time for clergy to pray, reflect, speak with one another, and share fellowship.
The program included presentations by Archpriest John Parker and Mother Christophora. Participants also joined in daily prayer and Great Vespers. A Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated for the feast day at New Gračanica Monastery in Third Lake, Illinois.
A pastoral retreat is a gathering that gives clergy a focused setting apart from ordinary routines. In this case, the shared program combined worship with opportunities for conversation and reflection among bishops, priests, and deacons.