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Are youth allowed to go swimming or wear cut-off shirts during convention and routine church activities?

I am very pleased that you brought the concerns of the youth to my attention. I depend on the servants to certainly do so.

First, I will address the issue of swimming. As a physical and fun activity I have no problem with the exercise of swimming. In and of itself there is nothing non-religious of this activity (boys swimming with other boys and girls swimming with other girls in a private setting).

The Divine Liturgy, as you may know, is scheduled daily at the youth convention. One cannot swim following the Divine Liturgy, at any convention, as I am sure you are aware. Further, as you have pointed out, youth swim outside of church scheduled conventions, so this is not an activity dependent upon the convention. Divine Liturgy, Biblical lectures, Round table discussions with the clergy, and group fellowship are all dependent upon this convention. Also, swimming is a solitary activity, but basketball, soccer, and baseball all require group effort  and thus bring about team play and interaction, which is more conducive to the "spirit" of the retreat.

Secondly, service is not always about "pleasing" but providing example as well as motivation. If it pleased someone to wear a cut off shirt at the convention, then perhaps we should examine why. This is a church retreat why is the issue of dress important? Is the focus here on dress and fun? If so, then perhaps the youth are attending for the wrong reason.

If the retreat is spiritually focused, then dress is less of a concern and if one has fun, this is certainly a benefit but not mandated. Fun is on the schedule but not the focus of the agenda. The Diocese is making multiple changes in the conventions in an attempt to encourage more people to attend. I also am making changes in thought as well. These changes are to bring about the "spirit" of retreat.

Please be clear that in all the retreats and conventions scheduled, no change in attire is acceptable. This includes cut off shirts, shorts, or sleeveless shirts. I was not aware that youth wore to church clothing of this nature regardless of occasion. From the beginning of time, when one worshipped the Lord or entered into places of worship, certain dress and behavior was expected. This is not a new concept nor is it only in our church. We must show reverence and respect.

It is my most fervent desire to see all our youth eager to attend the retreats and conventions the diocese offers. It is my desire, as much as possible, to plan and schedule activities for the youth's high school and college programs, and to do so  in the spirit of love. The Lord loved the little children and I too love the youth in the Diocese.

Truly, as you ask in love for the youth, I want to respond in love, and with this love both you and I will bring others closer to the Lord Jesus Christ.

I want to share this proverb with you:

A person that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.
"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord" (Romans 12:11).