Young adults convened in Cleveland for the 2026 National YAL Conference

The first full day of the 2026 National Young Adult League (YAL) Conference began with an Opening Breakfast and Ceremony, featuring welcoming remarks from Conference Chairman, John Panos, and Bishop Nektarios of Diokleia, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Spiritual Advisor to the National YAL Conference.

Following breakfast, participants joined clergy and lay leaders from across the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America for select portions of the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress. This unique opportunity allowed young adults to engage directly in discussions focused on the life, ministry, and future of the Church.

Conference attendees participated in two featured Clergy-Laity panel discussions. The first session, led by Dr. Ann Bezzerides, offered thoughtful reflections and practical guidance for on the status of young adult ministry. The second panel featured Eva Konstantakos, National Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, John Panos, Chair of the 2026 National YAL Conference, and Lenie Tsakonas, Chair of the National YAL Board. Together, they explored the role of young adults in parish life, leadership development, and the cultivation of…