In-Person Events
Gather with us at one of our events around the US for a time of learning, renewal, and growth.
Connect with other Orthodox homeschool families, grow lasting friendships, and be a part of a loving, supportive community.
The character of each event varies by location: some are more “retreat” style, with families staying on-site. Others, hosted at local parishes, are more like conferences, with families finding their own accommodations.
If you are interested in volunteering at one of these events, or would like to help plan an event in your area, email us at office@saintemmelia.com
If you are interested in sponsoring a conference or advertising with us as a conference vendor, email us at programs@saintemmelia.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the conference for?
The conferences are designed for any families interested in Orthodoxy and homeschooling. We offer talks for all levels of experience—from new homeschoolers to homeschool veterans! Each conference has different age minimums, but there are activities for young kids-teens, while parents are invited to bring their babies and toddlers to all workshops.
What is included in the conference cost?
The registration fees, unless otherwise specified, include: meals, keynote and plenary speaker travel/honoraria/meals/lodging, staff travel/lodging/meals, thank you gifts to the host parish (if applicable) and volunteers, and administrative costs (printing, nametags, and other supplies). By far the biggest expense is meals, and while we do our best to keep costs minimal, there is only so much we can do to defray the costs of such significant amounts of food.We do not make money on the events! If you need financial help getting to a conference, please contact us at programs@saintemmelia.com
Are you going to host a conference in my area?
We would love to! Typically, we recommend that the first event in a new location be a one-day conference-style event. In order to start the planning process, we need a couple of possible locations (specifically host parishes), and at least three committed volunteers. The planning process is manageable, but does take some time and dedication. For more information, contact us at office@saintemmelia.com.
Why is (x) conference being hosted at a non-Orthodox facility?
With the blessing of our Hierarchs, we choose a location of a suitable size in the specific region we are planning a conference. Orthodox retreat centers that fit our particular needs do not exist in all regions of North America. Where they do exist and are available, we make every effort to utilize their facilities. In the instances that no Orthodox facility in a particular location meets our need, we have a blessing to use the host facility's chapels and naves for our own services. We are careful to respect all canonical limitations.