[NEW YORK, NY ] The first ever, national study on evangelization and outreach in Orthodox parishes in the United States has been released by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA. 

Download the report in various formats:

• Executive Summary (pdf)
• Full Report (pdf)

The report "Go and Make Disciples: Evangelization and Outreach in US Orthodox Parishes" explores the practices and strategies developed by some Orthodox parishes that can be viewed as "exemplary" in their missionary and outreach efforts. Examples of what the readers will find in the report include:

• The "secrets" of being a parish that attracts and welcomes new members;
• Eight good practices of welcoming first-time visitors and inquirers about the Faith;
• How do "exemplary" parishes achieve a high degree of involvement of their members in parish life;
• Four distinct features of religious education in the "exemplary" parishes;
• Six "lessons" that Church leadership (bishops) can learn from the "exemplary" parishes.

Parishes of seven Orthodox jurisdictions participated in this study. The report was prepared by Alexei Krindatch, the Assembly's Research Coordinator in cooperation with Fr. Eric Tosi (OCA), Fr. John Parker (OCA) and Adam Roberts (Antiochian Archdiocese). The study was initiated and sponsored by the Committee for Agencies and Endorsed Organizations (Bishop Gregory of Nyssa, Chairman).