The Eastern American Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) has approved official guidelines governing the online conduct of clergy, church employees, and volunteers representing the Church, establishing standards for the use of social media and other digital platforms.

According to an announcement published on the diocese's website, the new policy emphasizes that a priest's pastoral responsibility does not end when engaging online, where personal opinions are often perceived as reflecting the official position of the Church.

The document calls on clergy to demonstrate humility, prudence, and self-restraint in digital communication, urging them to avoid public disputes and to remember that the most persuasive Christian witness remains personal example rather than online rhetoric.

The guidelines also warn against excessive use of social media. The policy states that constant engagement with online platforms can become spiritually harmful, even when justified as part of pastoral ministry. Instead, priests are encouraged to devote more time to face-to-face pastoral care, prayer, liturgical service, and works of mercy.

The regulations apply to all diocesan clergy, including bishops, priests, deacons, and other church ministers, as well as lay employees serving in official diocesan institutions. Diocesan officials also noted that the document may serve as a useful resource for parish communities seeking to foster a healthy culture of communication in the digital age.

The new policy follows an ongoing discussion within ROCOR regarding the presence of clergy on social media. Earlier, Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York issued a pastoral message warning priests against engaging in online quarrels, political arguments, and the pursuit of internet popularity.

In that address, the metropolitan recalled the words of the late Archbishop Averky (Taushev): "Do not confuse public recognition with ministry," stressing that a priest's primary vocation is to care for the spiritual life of the faithful rather than to compete for public attention.

The newly adopted guidelines expand on those principles, affirming that pastoral ministry extends beyond the walls of the church and into the digital sphere. At the same time, the document emphasizes that clergy are called to uphold the dignity of their vocation online, refrain from posting content that may cause scandal or division, and remember that the most authentic witness to Christ is found not in internet activity but in personal encounters with others.