On Saturday, September 7, 2013, fifteen members of the Saint Vladimir’s Seminary community participated in the third annual “One Conference,” a gathering of Eastern Christians here. Seminary faculty members, staff, students, and alumni were among the presenters and conference-goers.
The “One Conference” was created when a core group of young adults brainstormed around a kitchen table and came up with an idea that they hoped would inspire and connect youth in their faith communities. Among the members of the core group were three Saint Vladimir’s graduates, John Malek (‘00), Priest Vijay Thomas (‘09), and Deacon Ryan Tellalian (‘09).
At first, the conference was open to young people from Oriental Orthodox churches. By 2012 the conference was welcoming youth from all Eastern Christian traditions Oriental, Eastern Orthodox, and Byzantine Catholic.
This year’s conference leader was Priest Anthony Messeh from Saint Timothy and Saint Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church, Arlington, VA. Father Anthony is a well-known gifted speaker and youth minister.
Members of the Saint Vladimir’s community who attended included His Grace, Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, Episcopal Board of Trustee member; Protodeacon Joseph Matusiak, Director of Admissions; Dr. Albert Rossi, Director of Field Education; Deacon Ryan Tellalian, Systems Support Specialist; and a number of seminarians who led group discussions during the conference. Protodeacon Joseph offered a presentation on Saint Vladimir’s Seminary and theological education to the entire gathering.
“It is always inspiring to see so many young adults gathering to discuss, worship, and participate in fellowship,” said Protodeacon Joseph. “And it is awesome to watch those young men and woman who have been formed here at Saint Vladimir’s go out and create something as special as this ‘One Conference.’ “
