The Diocesan General Body
The governing body at the diocesan level representing all parishes in a diocese.
The Diocesan General Body is the governing body at the diocesan level representing all parishes in a diocese. It consists of representatives from all parishes within the diocese and plays a crucial role in diocesan administration and decision-making.
Composition
The Diocesan General Body includes:
- The Diocesan Metropolitan (President)
- Representatives from each parish in the diocese
- Diocesan clergy members
- Lay representatives elected by parish members
Functions
The Diocesan General Body is responsible for:
- Electing diocesan officers and committee members
- Approving diocesan budgets and financial matters
- Making decisions on diocesan policies and programs
- Overseeing diocesan institutions and activities
- Representing the diocese at higher church levels
Meetings
The Diocesan General Body meets regularly to discuss and decide on matters pertaining to the diocese. These meetings provide a forum for parishes to voice their concerns and participate in diocesan governance.
Diocesan Structure
Each diocese is organized with its own General Body that operates under the guidance of the Diocesan Metropolitan and follows the constitution and canons of the Malankara Orthodox Church.
The Diocesan General Body serves as a bridge between individual parishes and the central church administration, ensuring that local needs and concerns are addressed while maintaining unity with the broader church structure.