The AROLA Congress Held in Mono
A Witness of Faith, Communion, and Responsibility in the Diaspora

Between May 1–3, 2026, the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Canada hosted, near the Romanian Orthodox Monastery in Mono, Ontario, the AROLA Ladies’ Congress—an important event dedicated to strengthening the missionary and spiritual work of Orthodox women in the North American diaspora.

Organized with the blessing of His Eminence Nicolae Condrea, Romanian Orthodox Metropolitan of the Americas, and His Grace Ioan Casian, Romanian Orthodox Bishop of Canada, the congress brought together participants from across the Metropolia in an atmosphere marked by prayer, fellowship, and reflection on ecclesial responsibility.

A Beginning in Prayer and Communion

The event began Friday evening with the official opening, followed by the Paraklesis service to the Mother of God, placing the entire gathering under her protection. The spiritual atmosphere continued on Saturday morning with the celebration of Matins, the Divine Liturgy, and a memorial service, in the presence of the hierarchs and a group of clergy from the Toronto area.

Conference and Administrative Sessions

Saturday’s program included a lecture delivered by Mother Gabriela from the Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery in Rives Junction, USA, who addressed contemporary themes related to spiritual life and the mission of women in today’s world.

The afternoon was dedicated to the AROLA Congress sessions, including the presentation of activity and financial reports, discussions of ongoing projects, and the establishment of future directions. A central moment was the election of the new AROLA Committee.

Pilgrimage and Moments of Gratitude

Participants had the opportunity to take part in a pilgrimage on the grounds of the Monastery of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and St. Ephraim the New in Mono, enjoying the peace and beauty of the surroundings. During this time, they venerated holy relics and a vestment touched to the relics of Saints Cleopa and Paisie of Sihăstria.

Saturday evening concluded with the Vespers service, followed by the oath-taking of the new board—marking a new chapter in the organization’s activity—and a festive moment during which certificates of appreciation were awarded to women actively involved in Church life and philanthropic projects in the diaspora.

The Hierarchical Liturgy – The Culmination

Sunday marked the culmination of the congress with the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, a moment of profound Eucharistic communion that highlighted the unity and vitality of the Romanian Orthodox community in Canada.

At the conclusion of the religious services, the hegumen of the monastery, Fr. Policarp, expressed gratitude to the hierarchs for their blessings throughout the congress, offering them flowers on behalf of the monastery’s pilgrims as a sign of appreciation and spiritual love. He also thanked the participating ladies for their presence and continued support of the monastery, presenting the AROLA president with an icon of the recently canonized holy women as a sign of esteem and blessing.

Hierarchical Guidance for Effective Ministry

During the AROLA Congress, His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae Condrea encouraged the members of the Association to engage in a more efficient, well-organized, and results-oriented work. He emphasized the importance of the responsible involvement of the newly elected committee, as well as of all AROLA members, who are called to discern wisely the areas that require improvement and to identify practical solutions adapted to present needs.

As an initial direction, he highlighted the necessity of strengthening connections with all parishes through active communication carried out in collaboration with priests and women in the local communities. At the same time, the hierarch urged a responsible use of time and the adoption of an effective working approach, inspired by the rigor of North American society, yet lived in the spirit of Christian service.

He also underlined the importance of better communication and awareness regarding AROLA’s mission and projects, so that they may become known and accessible to all parishes within the Metropolia. Furthermore, he encouraged the sharing of initiatives and fruitful activities among parishes, so that positive experiences may become a source of inspiration and strengthening for the entire community.

In light of the Sunday Gospel, it was recalled that the Christian life entails sacrifice and the overcoming of comfort, as Christ Himself showed that He would not be received by the world. In this spirit, AROLA members are called to authentic involvement, aware that without sacrifice there can be no spiritual fruit. In conclusion, the hierarch expressed his support for the entire work of the Association, encouraging all members to continue their mission with dedication and responsibility, for the building up of the Church and the strengthening of Christian life in their communities.

The homily delivered by His Grace Ioan Casian during the AROLA Congress highlighted the blessed and sacrificial work of the women in the parishes, who, with zeal and steadfastness, support the liturgical and missionary life of the Church on the North American continent, carrying forward the inheritance of the ancestral faith.

The hierarch emphasized that authentic service is not founded on human expectations or on recognition from the world, but on faithfulness to Christ the Lord. For, as the Savior Himself taught, if the world hated Him, neither will His disciples be spared opposition. Therefore, the faithful are called to place their entire hope in God, who never abandons those who love Him.

As a living example of faith and devotion, he pointed to the Myrrh-bearing Women, who, despite human weakness and obstacles, went to the Lord’s tomb with hearts full of love and faith, seeking to fulfill what was proper. For this humble zeal, they were granted the honor of being the first witnesses of the Resurrection.

In conclusion, the hierarch encouraged steadfastness in faith, a spirit of sacrifice, and unwavering hope in God, emphasizing that work accomplished with a pure and faithful heart becomes a source of blessing and salvation.

A Living Witness of Faith in the Diaspora

The AROLA Congress 2026 concluded in an atmosphere of joy and gratitude, leaving participants inspired to continue the work they have begun. The event was not merely an administrative gathering, but a true witness of faith working through love and unity in Christ.

In the context of diaspora life, such initiatives become essential landmarks for strengthening Orthodox identity and consolidating Romanian communities.

We pray that the Mother of God may protect all participants and bless the ongoing work of AROLA, bringing forth spiritual fruit and selfless service in the Church of Christ.

Christ is Risen!

(notes by Hegumen Polycarp / Nicoleta Stefan)