After 16 years, the Young Adult League (YAL) Conference officially returned to the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta on October 9th to 12th, 2026. Gathered in the Tampa Bay area under the theme "Anchored in Christ," the historic event brought together 240 young adults representing 23 states and Canada for a weekend dedicated to faith, fellowship, and community service.

The conference theme served as a central guide for all weekend activities, emphasizing that Christ remains the steadfast anchor needed to navigate the uncertainties and changing currents of modern daily life. Attendees participated in a series of spiritual workshops and group discussions aimed at deepening their relationship with God, offering mutual encouragement, and exploring the stability found in an Orthodox Christian life. This weekend of spiritual growth culminated in a beautiful Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos, together with Rev. Fr. Sampson Kasapakis, and all 240 participants. 

In addition to spiritual development, the conference emphasized the importance of Diakonia (service). Partnering with the Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay (RMHTB), the 240 attendees completed a massive service project, assembling 2,000 supply bags for families in need. The initiative successfully generated enough supplies to fully stock all five RMHTB houses on Davis Island for the next three months.

"With thanks to God, the vision of His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos, and a dedicated committee of 18 young adults all together made this remarkable weekend happen," said the Rev. Fr. Sampson N. Kasapakis, Director of the Metropolis of Atlanta YAL Conference.

"Countless hours over the last year were spent creatively planning every detail with purpose and focus on what mattered most: their Orthodox Faith and one another. What began as an ambitious effort to revive a beloved tradition became something far greater: a powerful reminder of the vitality of Orthodox young adult ministry and the strength of a community united in Christ."

The weekend also offered extensive opportunities for fellowship at various landmark venues across the Tampa Bay area. Celebrations included an opening evening overlooking the Tampa Bay skyline at American Social, Greek Dancing the night away with the fishes at The Florida Aquarium, and a concluding sunset cruise through the Tampa Bay Harbor. 

The YAL Conference Committee and the Metropolis of Atlanta express deep gratitude for the spiritual guidance and constant presence of His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos throughout the weekend, as well as the leadership of Father Sampson Kasapakis. Special recognition and thanks are extended to Archons Dr. Ted Vlahos, the Honorable Judge Counelis, and Tim Tassopoulos, alongside the numerous Greek Orthodox parishes throughout the Tampa Bay area and the generous sponsors who financially supported the revival of the tradition.

As participants returned to their respective home parishes across North America, they carried a renewed sense of belonging and a deeper connection to their ancestral faith, moving forward under the conference's closing charge: Anchored in Christ. United in Faith. Connected for Life.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
Rev. Fr. Sampson N. Kasapakis
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta
[email protected]