Who are we?
The Connexion of St. Maria Skobtsova (CSMS) is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and progressive expression of the Eastern Rites (Byzantine) within the Convergent Catholic Communion. While the Eastern expression of the Church is typically characterized by conservative and exclusive practices, CSMS seeks a more open and holistic approach to faith grounded in the depths of Eastern theology. We believe in the inherent goodness of all people and affirm God’s perfect love, which does not discriminate.
Our worship is enriched by the beauty and depth of Byzantine liturgical practices. We celebrate the Divine Liturgy with a focus on reverence, mystery, and the transformative power of the sacraments. At the same time, we are committed to the principles of inclusivity and social justice, inspired by the life and teachings of St. Maria Skobtsova, an Eastern Orthodox nun who devoted her life to serving the marginalized and oppressed.
The Connexion consists of those who worship according to the traditional rite and those who incorporate principles learned during the Reformations in the West. This dual approach allows us to honor the rich liturgical and spiritual heritage of the Eastern Rites while embracing the insights and reforms that have emerged from Western Christianity. By blending these traditions, we strive to create a community that is both deeply rooted and dynamically responsive to contemporary spiritual needs.
Our History
The Connexion of St. Maria Skobtosva Chrysostom (CSMK) was formed under the Apostolic Authority of the Convergent Catholic Communion (CCC) under the Omophorion (Episcopal Protection) of His Beatitude, Metropolitan JOHN GREGORY on July 5, 2021.
As per the Metropolitan's proclamation, this Connexion was created by the intercession of the Holy Spirit to be “a hub for Eastern Rite Christians that desire full participation in our communion yet wish to retain their Eastern traditions and customs.”
Connexional Eastern Catholicism
Unlike in more traditional Diocesan and Eparchial models found in mainline and canonical churches, our Communion does not assign episcopal oversight through geographic means. In June of 2021, our governing Councils approved a transition to a charism-based model. We chose to use ‘Connexion’ because it was an organizing form not historically tied to geography (like those listed above). As in early Methodism, our Connexions reflect a charism-based model (i.e., when Methodism was still part of the Church of England), with a key differentiation in our use of the historic episcopacy. In this form of governance, the fullness of the church (both lay and ordained) work in concert to achieve the work of Christ. Additionally, the term ‘Connexion’ further stresses the interconnectedness of the various parts of our Communion.
Our Ministries
We offer online as well as in-person worship services at multiple mission plants throughout the United States. It is our fervent prayer that our ministry will continue to grow and serve our communities in peace, health, and happiness.
Eastern Rite Mission Plants
SOLOMON'S PORCH
Phoenix, Arizona
Cathedral Parish
HOLY SACRAMENT
Chapmanville, WV
Mission Plant
Our Leaders
His Beatitude, the Most Reverend Metropolitan JOHN GREGORY serves our Connexion as Eparch, assisted by Archpriest COLUMBA.
the Most Reverend Metropolitan
JOHN GREGORY
(Kenneth von Folmar)
Connexional Eparch
the Very Reverend Archpriest
COLUMBA
(Kevin Daugherty)
the Reverend Canon
IAKOVOS ATHANOSIOS
(Jake Miller)
Vocations
Our Members
The Episcopate (Order of Bishops)
Metropolitan JOHN GREGORY (Kenneth) von Folmar - Eparch (Glendale, AZ)
The Presbyterate (Order of Priests)
the Very Rev. Father COLUMBA (Kevin Daugherty)- Archpriest (Glendale, AZ)
the Rev. AGAPIOS (Thomas) Artist (Chapmanville, WV)
the Rev. Canon IAKOVOS ATHANASIOS (Jake) Miller (Glendale, AZ)
the Rev. Presbyter MAXIM (Davi) Hayes (Frederick, MD)
Aspirants for Holy Orders
Minister Quinn Mackenzie (Paoli, IN)
Become a Member
All applicants must submit an application and pass a background check prior to being considered for membership. Each applicant will be interviewed by Archpriest Basil and may be interviewed by Bishop John Gregory . During this consideration period, our leaders review their findings and make a decision for membership. During deliberations, a decision is made in light of the Ordained Ministry Candidate Standards as adopted by our Bishops Council. The candidate may expect a determination to be made within 60 days of receiving the application. If membership is approved, additional training may be assigned to the new member. All new members are admitted as provisional members for a period determined by the Bishop, with approval from the Presiding Bishop. For those located outside of the United States, your application will only be consider if there are independent methods for verifying the information submitted.
The key to attaining membership in our Communion is found in building meaningful relationships with our members and leaders. You can begin that process now by joining our Facebook Group.
All applicants are required to complete a criminal background check, including a check of the US Department of Justice Sexual Offender Registry.
Your application will not be considered until this item is completed. The cost of the background check is approximately $26.95 (Basic Package) and can be accessed above.