WESTERN EUROPEAN DIOCESE: 3 January 2025
The Second Youth Conference of the Western European Diocese concludes

The second youth congress of the Western European Diocese in December was held in Leysin (Canton of Vaud, Switzerland). The first gathering having place in London from 19 – 23 December, 2024, the second was held from 27 – 29 December in the snow-covered mountains of the Swiss Alps.

With the blessing of His Grace Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe, and under the guidance of Archpriest Emilian Pocinoc, cleric of the Cathedral of the Exaltation of the Cross in Geneva, the retreat opened on Friday, 27th December, at the chapel of the Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon in the Alpine village of Leysin. Despite the limited space in the chalet, more than 40 young participants from Switzerland and other countries gathered for the event.

Fr Emilian writes:

"A diverse programme of activities was prepared for our Orthodox youth. Emphasis was placed on helping young people feel that they are not alone in this world, that they have an important role to play in life, that much depends on them, and that, in many ways, they are able positively to impact the world around them.

"Over the three days of the retreat, participants not only reflected on various challenges and sought answers to the question, “Who are we truly?”, but also came to know themselves more deeply through time spent in prayer. All who wished had the opportunity to discuss spiritual topics with a priest, ask pressing questions, confess, and partake in the Divine Services, receiving the Holy Mysteries of Christ.

"By God’s mercy, two young catechumens were baptised before the Liturgy. Following the Divine Liturgy, a festive meal was organised. Throughout the retreat, participants also actively engaged in winter sports, climbed local mountain peaks, marvelled at the Alpine landscapes, and enjoyed plenty of fellowship.

"All the attendees of this year’s winter retreat expressed their confidence and hope for another gathering in Leysin next year."