Metropolis of Boston Hosts 2026 Oratorical Festival

Monday, May 11, 2026

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The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston hosted its annual Oratorical Festival on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Metropolis Center in Brookline, MA, welcoming participants from parishes throughout New England for a day dedicated to faith, learning, and fellowship. Students participated in both the Junior and Senior Divisions, offering thoughtful presentations on a variety of topics rooted in Orthodox theology, Scripture, Church history, worship, and Christian life.

This year’s Senior Division topics invited participants to reflect on the theological meaning of Orthodox iconography, the significance of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit, the symbolism of light and darkness in the writings of Saint John, the witness of martyrs throughout Church history, and Orthodox teachings concerning death and eternal life. Junior Division participants explored themes including the meaning of hymns from the Divine Liturgy, the lives of young Saints, the role of the Ecumenical Patriarch, lessons from Old Testament stories, and the importance of major feast days in the life of the Church.

The following students were recognized for their outstanding presentations:

Senior Division

1st Place – Andrew Taxiarchos

2nd Place – Sotirios Miris

3rd Place – Paul Constantinou

Junior Division

1st Place – Salome Dunning

2nd Place – Grace Mitrotakis

3rd Place – Vasilia Sevi

The first-place winners in both divisions will go on to represent the Metropolis of Boston at the National Oratorical Festival.

Metropolitan Methodios congratulated all of the participants and expressed how moving it is to hear young people thoughtfully share their perspectives on the Orthodox faith. Addressing the students, His Eminence commended their courage and dedication, remarking that at their age he himself would not have had the confidence to stand before others and present in such a meaningful way.

Metropolitan Methodios also offered his gratitude to Fr. Nicholas Livingston for serving as Chairperson of the Metropolis Oratorical Festival and for organizing the beautiful event. His Eminence further thanked the parents for encouraging their children to remain close to the Church and for inspiring them to expand their minds and hearts through the study of topics related to the Orthodox faith. As the event took place on the eve of Mother’s Day, Metropolitan Methodios also extended warm wishes and blessings to all mothers.

Special thanks were offered to the Metropolis of Boston Philoptochos for sponsoring and preparing the meal and refreshments enjoyed by all who attended the festival.