On October 15, Hieromonk Cyprian (Alexandrou) spoke at the 3rd Annual Youth Symposium, held at the Synodal Cathedral of the Sign in New York City. Three seminarians participated in the symposium with him. Fr Cyprian spoke about mission work in the Orthodox Church today, following the theme of the symposium. Citing examples like St. Innocent of Moscow and St. Nicholas of Japan, He emphasized the need for individual repentance and spiritual growth before beginning any missionary activity. Fr Cyprian and the seminarians also took part in the afternoon discussions at the symposium regarding possible future events.

During lunch, the symposium participants sang “Save, O Christ God” in honor of Fr Cyprian’s namesday (Hieromartyr Cyprian). At the close of the symposium, Fr Andrei Sommer, head of the Synodal Youth Department, presented Fr Cyprian with a book on the Kursk-Root Icon for his participation in the event.
The seminary representation stayed at the Synod until Sunday. Fr Cyprian served vigil and liturgy with the Synodal clergy; seminarians sang and served in the altar.
For more information on Fr Cyprian’s talk and the activities of the Youth Symposium, one can read Fr Andrei Sommer’s interview on the Synodal Website.