Young Adult Social in San Francisco

San Francisco, California – On May 2, 2026, young adults from across Northern California gathered on a clear spring evening at Holy Trinity Cathedral for Great Vespers and a young adult social. A nearby indoor-outdoor venue encouraged conversation and fellowship among the 50 or so young adults gathered for the evening.

The social was inspired by the desire expressed by many participants at the Diocese’s Young Adult Summit this past February to have more opportunities to gather in person. “To look around the room and see connections being made and laughter shared brings me so much joy and anticipation for the relationships we are nurturing among this age group,” shared Brittany Yeager, project manager of the Thriving Parishes Project.

The Diocese of the West of the Orthodox Church in America is working to increase its service to youth and young adults in the ten Western American states it serves. After introductions, Archpriest Kirill Sokolov, diocesan chancellor, discussed opportunities to share feedback on how the Diocese might support growth in faith, especially in an age of artificial intelligence (AI). Fr. Kirill reflected on the importance of growing into and holding fast to the dignity bestowed upon us as human beings by the Creator, noting that gatherings such as this evening’s help nurture and sustain that calling. St. Eugene’s Camp activities director Andrew Pickering encouraged attendees to volunteer at our regional children’s camp this summer.

The mixer included attendees from as far afield as Chico, Reno, and Santa Cruz. Plans are underway to offer future gatherings for young adults across the Diocese as a means to help this dynamic group of Orthodox Christians become stronger in their faith, more engaged with local parishes, and leaders in bearing witness to Christ’s love in our communities. For questions, please reach out to the Thriving Parishes Project at thriving@dowoca.org.