Canadian matushka among conference speakers in DC area

Photo: Metropolitan Savas Zembilas (Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh) with Mat. Donna Farley (l, Archdiocese of Canada), Psa. Stephanie Subu, Fr. David Subu(Romanian Episcopate) & other participants at the first Doxacon

With the blessing of Archbishop Nathaniel and Metropolitan Tikhon (OCA), and Archbishop Demetrios (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese), Metropolitan Savas Zembilas of Pittsburgh served as keynote speaker at a unique conference at St. Mary's Romanian Church (OCA) in Falls Church VA this past July 19-21st. About a hundred participants came from around the continent to hear and discuss writers ranging from St. Basil of Caesarea to Chinese poets to the Brothers Grimm and C.S. Lewis.

Mat. Donna Farley of St. Herman's parish Langley BC was among other presenters at the weekend examining themes of Christian theology in literary science fiction, film, and popular culture. Mat. Donna spoke on the theme "A Spell for Refreshment: Myth, Fairy Tales and Faith". As St. Basil taught his students to value the mythology and philosophy of the Greek pagan culture, and find in them examples of virtue and truth, so also today we can apply Christian lessons from classic and contemporary popular culture.

The weekend included the Akathist "Glory to God for All Things", in which glory is given to God for the works of writers, artists and musicians, as well as works of nature.
After Saturday vespers, a fellowship meal was provided by St. Mary's parish, and on Sunday morning Met. Savas preached at the hierarchical divine liturgy.

The success of the conference has created enthusiasm to repeat the even next year and to initiate a west coast version at some time in the future.