A fellowship of Orthodox Christians will discuss ways to strengthen youth ministry ties with the Orthodox Church in America at an upcoming conference announced Friday.

Archpriest William Evansky of Ambridge, a spiritual advisor for the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America expanded on the focus of talks. FOCA is an official organization of the OCA.

"[D]iscussions will focus on strengthening the programmatic ties between the OCA and the FOCA, especially in the area of youth ministry, a long-standing concern of the FOCA," Archpriest Evansky said.

FOCA announced it will hold its 86th annual National Convention at the Embassy Suits in Myrtle Beach, FL from August 29.

Activities will include plenary sessions, discussions and liturgical services.

FOCA's New Jersey District will host the event. Non-FOCA members may attend, the group said. Among the events will be a Sept. 1 question and answer session with church leaders.

Participating will include His Grace, Bishop Michael of New York and New Jersey; Archpriest Eric Tosi, OCA Secretary; Andrew Boyd, director of the OCA Department of Youth, Young Adult, and Campus Ministries.