Yeretzgins Gather for First Ever Conference

Each year during the Diocesan Assembly, yeretzgins from throughout the Eastern Diocese have always gathered for a special breakfast. But that was always a quick affair, and the women quickly got caught up in other activities. During the 2004 Diocesan Assembly, the yeretzgins held the first ever yeretzgin conference the day before the Assembly began.

Organized by Yn. Tirouhe Boyajian and Yn. Patricia Dagley, the gathering featured a couple of speakers, including Dr. Roberta Irvine from St. Nersess Seminary, who spoke on the role of a priest’s wife and how to find a balance between all the demands put on the women.

The day also gave the yeretzgins a chance to share experiences and ideas for improving their ministry. At the close of the session, the women paired up for silent, personal prayers. The partners were encouraged to pray for each other throughout the year. Plans are underway to follow up the successful inaugural conference with a second one before the 2005 Assembly in Bayside, NY.