Monday, February 13, 2017 marked the beginning of the much awaited 3rd annual St. Sebastian and St. Mardarije Ecclesial Orthodox Institute.  His Grace Bishop Maxim of Western America and St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in San Diego, California are host to this year's event held in cooperation with the Clergy Brotherhood of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

During the course of Monday's registration and arrival of clergy, the sight of many familiar faces from throughout the Western Diocese was mixed with many new faces as well. Word of this yearly event, the Orthodox Institute, spread over these few years that this year's event saw a suprinsingly increased number of clery from other dioceses, particulary the Diocese of Eastern America. Registration in the late afternoon hours was followed by Vespers served by V. Rev. Protopresybter Predrag Bojovic from the St. Sava Church in San Gabriel. V. Rev. Protopresybter Bratso Krsic, the host priest, welcomed everyone to this year's event, particulary this year's speaker, Rev. Dr. Vaileios Thermos, PH. D.  

Dinner was served after Vespers after which followed a wine tasting and cheese reception.