For the first time in its history, the ROCOR Western American Diocese St. Herman’s Conference was held in the summer, from August 7-11, 2025. The conference was hosted by St. George Russian Orthodox Church in West Jordan, UT. Participants came from all around the diocese, from as far west as Hawaii and as far east as Denver, from as far north as Seattle and as far south as Tucson.

The conference included talks by archpriest Michael van Opstall and priest John Edwards. Rounding out the clergy were archpriest David Moser and priest Andrew Gliga. Participants hiked at 9000 ft around a mountain lake. Training was held for singing, reading, and altar serving. The participants performed these services at the Divine Services for the anniversary of the glorification of St. Herman and for the Resurrection of Christ.

Teams of participants were tasked to create youth action plans to bring back to their parishes and enact. Three ideas were presented and judged by the clergy and counselors, with the participants pledging to return home and get to work on the ideas.

A final banquet was held on Sunday with dinner and dancing.

Participants reported that new connections were made. An overall spirit of service prevailed over the conference, as young people from across the American West deepened their commitments to serving Christ and His Church.

St. Herman’s West will return in December 2026.