Updates

News From The Patriarchal Parishes of The Russian Orthodox Church in the USA: 5 September 2021

New Cupolas Sanctified atop St. Andrew Naval Cathedral On Saturday, August 21, the end of a major capital renovation project at St. Andrew Naval Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA took place. After many months of work on the exterior and interior of the temple – replacing the roof, HVAC systems – three new front cupolas adorning the façade of the cathedral were sanctified during a short moleben. Leading the service was parish rector, Archpriest Mark Shin co-served by local clergy: Archpriest Serge Lukianov (rector of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Howell, NJ); Archpriest Ljubo Milosevic (rector of Holy Trinity Church in Vineland, NJ); Archpriest Luka Novakovic (rector of St. Michael the Archangel Church in Philadelphia, PA); Archpriest Alexey Bocharnikov (rector of St. Nicholas Church in Chester, PA); Archpriest Alexander Tsygankov (parish cleric); Priest Gregory Winsky (cleric of Holy Trinity Church in Baltimore, MD); Priest Valery Sukholubov (rector of Joy of all who Sorrow Church in Philadelphia, PA). At the conclusion of the service, Fr. Alexander Tsygankov was hoisted in the air by crane to bless the newly-installed cupolas. Fr. Mark then thanked all those gathered for their prayers and labors in the project. Those that wish to donate to the renovation project can do so on the parish website. "The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com

Youth Choir "Osanna" holds Debut Concert in St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral On Friday evening, August 20, the newly formed youth chamber choir "Osanna" held its debut concert in St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral in New York City. The concert was attended by the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America & New York, and Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan. Cathedral dean Abbot Nicodemus (Balyasnikov) and Priest Mark Rashkov welcomed the attendees to the cathedral and spoke on the significance of the date the concert was being held – the day of the martyric death of the Holy Hieromartyr Alexander (Hotovitsky; +1937), first rector of the Patriarchal cathedral. The choir, under the direction of John Arlievsky, delighted the guests with selections from pre-revolutionary Russia, such as Pavel Chesnokov and Sergei Rachmaninoff, to the modern day compositions of Arvo Pärt and Alfred Schnittke. The concert was sponsored by the Patriarch Tikhon Russian-American Music Institute (PaTRAM). With a thunderous round of applause, the organizers thanked all those gathered for their support. A reception was then held in the cathedral hall, where interaction continued. The choir will be singing the divine services along with the Synodal Cathedral Choir for the 800th Anniversary of the birth of St. Alexander Nevsky in Howell, NJ this coming Sunday, September 12. "The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com

News From The Patriarchal Parishes of The Russian Orthodox Church in the USA: 18 August 2021

Patriarch Kyrill sends condolences to Metropolitan Tikhon on repose of Protopresbyter Leonid Kishkovsky

His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow and All Russia expressed his condolences on the repose of Protopresbyter Leonid Kishkovsky, Director of External Relations and Interchurch Relations of the Orthodox Church in America. "His Beatitude Tikhon, Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of All America and Canada Your Beatitude, beloved in the Lord Fellow and Concelebrant at the Throne of God! With sorrow I received the news of the repose of Protopresbyter Leonid Kishkovsky, whom I personally knew and with whom I interacted at various interchurch forums for more than fifty years. I express my sincere condolences to the widow of the deceased, Matushka Alexandra, his children and grandchildren. I offer my prayers to the All-Merciful Lord, so that He commit the newly departed laborer of the church's vineyard, to the mansions of the righteous, into a place of brightness, a place of repose and I wish spiritual strength to all who are now experiencing this loss."

With brotherly love in the Lord + KYRILL Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com

News From The Patriarchal Parishes of The Russian Orthodox Church in the USA: 25 July 2021

On Feast of Holy Leaders of the Apostles Peter & Paul, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk celebrates Liturgy in Synodal Cathedral On Monday, July 12, the feast of the Holy Leaders of the Apostles Peter and Paul, Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) of Volokolamsk, chairman of the Department of External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, visited the Synodal Headquarters of the Russian Church Abroad in New York City as part of his working visit to the United States. His Eminence celebrated Divine Liturgy in the Synodal Cathedral of the Sign co-served by the First Hierarch of ROCOR, Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America & New York, and diocesan vicar Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan. Concelebrating with the hierarchs were: cathedral dean Archpriest Andrei Sommer, Abbot Nicodemus (Balyasnikov; secretary to the Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA), Archpriest Edward Chervinsky (cathedral cleric), Priest Mark Rashkov (cleric of St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral in NYC), Protodeacon Nicolas Mokhoff (Synodal cleric), Hierodeacon Panteleimon (Jigalin; diocesan cleric), and Deacon Alexis Golubov (cleric of St. Nicholas Cathedral)

Singing the divine service was the Synodal choir under the direction of conductor Vadim S. Gan.

Despite its being a workday, cathedral parishioners and guests gathered to honor the memory of the holy apostles; many of them communed of Christ’s Holy Mysteries. Upon completion of Liturgy, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad thanked Metropolitan Hilarion for their shared service and expressed his hope that "the unity of the Mother Church will continue to serve as a source of grace-filled inspiration for all of the children of the Russian Orthodox Church, especially in the current difficult days facing the Orthodox world," and wished his brother-archpastor God’s help in his important ecclesiastical witness outside of Russia. In response, Metropolitan Hilarion relayed to the archpastors, clergy, and faithful the greetings and blessing of Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow & All Russia, and expressed his joy at the opportunity to celebrate Liturgy in this historic cathedral of the Church Abroad, which is its very heart. In his sermon, Metropolitan Hilarion spoke about the life and preaching of the Apostles Peter and Paul. In memory of their concelebration, Metropolitan Hilarion presented the First Hierarch of ROCOR a panagia with the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, which had once belonged to Archbishop John (Legky; +1995) of Rockland, vicar of the Eastern American Diocese. After the service, a reception was held in the cathedral hall. www.eadiocese.org "The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations meets with the Primate of the Orthodox Church in America On July 11, the chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, met with His Beatitude Archbishop Tikhon of Washington, Metropolitan of All America and Canada. The meeting took place after the Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral, during which the DECR chairman concelebrated with the Primate of the Orthodox Church in America. During the conversation, a wide range of issues related to the development of interaction between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Church in America, as well as topics in the field of inter-Orthodox relations. The parties exchanged information on how the Church met the challenge of the coronavirus pandemic in Russia and in other countries of the canonical territory of the Moscow Patriarchate, as well as in America and Canada. At the end of the meeting, Metropolitan Hilarion congratulated His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon on his 55th birthday and wished him God's help in carrying out his primatial ministry.

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

Metropolitan Tikhon of all America & Canada Celebrates Divine Liturgy in St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral On July 10, with the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow and All Russia, the Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, arrived on a work visit to the United States of America. At the airport, Metropolitan Hilarion was met by the Consul General of the Russian Federation in New York, S.K. Ovsyannikov and clerics of St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral: Abbot Nicodemus (Balyasnikov), Archpriest Yaroslav Lutoshkin and Priest Mark Rashkov. On July 11, His Beatitude, the Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of All America & Canada, Tikhon celebrated the Divine Liturgy in St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral in New York City co-served by Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk as well as the secretary of the Orthodox Church in America, Priest Alessandro Margheritino and clerics of St. Nicholas Cathedral.

Addressing Metropolitan Tikhon at the end of the divine service, Metropolitan Hilarion said: “Your Beatitude Tikhon, Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of America and Canada! Allow me warmly welcome you on behalf of His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow and All Russia to the St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral in New York. You have been a guest of this cathedral many times - the center of the spiritual and liturgical presence of the Russian Orthodox Church on American soil, but recently the pandemic has prevented you from visiting this church. And today, while the pandemic has not yet ended, but has significantly lessened on the American continent, we have the opportunity to cordially welcome you here. The temptation fell to the lot of all the peoples of the world. We remember how last Pascha, both in Russia and here in America, many churches were closed to parishioners: although the divine services were performed, although the Bloodless Sacrifice was raised, the majority of people could only see it on their computer screens and did not have the opportunity to attend church services personally. The worst wave of the pandemic that covered America last fall and winter claimed tens and hundreds of thousands of lives. Russia and other countries of the canonical presence of the Russian Orthodox Church have also partook of this cup of suffering - we also suffered great losses. In Russia, more than 140 thousand people have died from the coronavirus, and from its consequences - as many as we do not know and, probably, will never be able to count. Despite that in America, as we can see, the pandemic is declining, a new wave has begun in Russia, - notwithstanding the fact that Russia was the first country to develop a vaccine - vaccination has not proceed at the proper speed, and today we see a new surge of infections and a large number of deaths. We pray to the Lord that this temptation will end as soon as possible for us and for you. All these perilous events prevented us last year from jointly celebrating the significant anniversary of the Orthodox Church in America - the 50th anniversary of her autocephaly.

The Orthodox Church in America is the fruit of the saving sowing of Russian missionaries, Russian bishops and priests, who brought Orthodoxy to the American continent through Alaska, through the West Coast, and then it reached here - the East Coast of the United States. Many righteous labors were put in for the Orthodox faith to shine on the American continent. And in 1970, the Orthodox Church in America, which was a Daughter of the Russian Orthodox Church, became her beloved Sister. She was granted autocephaly according to the inalienable right that each Local Orthodox Church has: to determine the future of those parts of her that have grown and achieved independence. And despite the fact that recently new theories and new views on this issue have appeared, looking at history, we see that the process of granting autocephaly was never uniform, but the fundamental principle remained: autocephaly was granted by the Mother Church to her Church-Daughter... Thanks to that event in the history of the Orthodox Church in America, this Holy Orthodox Church has become a truly national Church of its people, where people have the opportunity to participate in divine services in their native language. This Church is dynamically developing and flourishing today under the First Hierarchical omophorion of Your Beatitude. On behalf of His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow and All Russia, I cordially congratulate you on these church-wide events, as well as on the upcoming jubilee of Your Beatitude - your 55th birthday. We are the same age: our birthdays are only a little over a week apart. I am very pleased that people of our generation today have the opportunity to serve the Church of Christ and give strength to the service of their flock. I would like to wish that in the next 55 years of your life the Lord will strengthen you, grant your Beatitude the strength to bear the heavy achpastoral and first-hierarchal cross”.

In response, His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon warmly greeted Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, noting the spiritual, canonical and doctrinal unity of the Orthodox Church in America with its Mother Church - the Moscow Patriarchate. “Dear Metropolitan Hilarion, I am glad to have the opportunity to serve with you a joint Divine Liturgy in spite of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic,” His Beatitude emphasized. Metropolitan Hilarion presented His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon with a panagia, presented as a gift to His Beatitude by His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill. Metropolitan Hilarion also addressed the clergy and parishioners of St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral: “Dear fathers, dear brothers & sisters! I would like to convey to you the greetings and blessings of His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill. We have all passed and still continue to pass through a difficult time of trials. But the Lord is merciful: at this time He comforts us with many of His grace-filled gifts. Our main consolation is the Divine service, which is performed in the church, the Holy Eucharist, in which we have the opportunity to participate, and the communion of the Body and Blood of Christ, which gives us strength to endure the trials of the present age and prepare for the life to come. I want to wish all of us that we firmly keep the holy Orthodox faith, love our churches, be faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ on our path in life and fulfill His Divine commandments. I wish for the clergy of St. Nicholas Cathedral, God's help in carrying out their pastoral work, which is now especially in demand and very much needed. " At the request of the youth club of the cathedral, Metropolitan Hilarion donated a number of his books to the parishioners. On his trip to the United States, Metropolitan Hilarion is accompanied by DECR staff member Philip Champion and Subdeacon Vyacheslav Lee. DECR Communication Service Translation by www.mospatusa.com

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

News From The Patriarchal Parishes of The Russian Orthodox Church in the USA

Patriarch Kyrill Congratulates Bishop Matthew on 50th Birthday

His Holiness Patriarch Kyrill of Moscow and All Russia congratulated Bishop Matthew of Sourozh on his 50th birthday. His Grace Matthew, Bishop of Sourozh, Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada

"Your Grace! Christ is Risen! With the Paschal glad tidings, I cordially greet you and congratulate you on your 50th birthday. By dedicating yourself to serving the Lord, you strive to diligently fulfill the various obediences imposed on you by the Church. Many years of your life have been associated with work in your native Tambov region. After some time, by God's will, you were numbered among the host of the Apostles' successors and called to episcopal labors, first in the Diocese of Skopin, and then as Administrator of the parishes of the Moscow Patriarchate in Italy. Now you are entrusted to perform archpastoral work in the Dicoese of Sourozh, to testify to the truth of Orthodoxy in the land of Foggy Albion. In consideration of your service and in connection with your jubilee, I confer upon you the Order of the Venerable Seraphim of Sarov (III Degree). May the all-generous Lord bestow upon you strong health and His unfailing help in further archpastoral labors.

With love in the Risen Christ + KYRILL, PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA"

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

The clergy, monastics and laity of the Diocese of Sourozh, the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada cordially congratulate their Archpastor on 50th birthday On May 18, His Grace Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada. celebrated his 50th birthday. The clergy, monastics and laity of the Diocese of Sourozh, the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada cordially congratulate their Archpastor on 50th birthday,

"Your Grace, dear Vladyka!

On the memorable day of your personal jubilee, please accept the warmest and most heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the clergy and parishioners of the Old and New Worlds! With the deepest respect and sincere love, we wish you, dear Vladyka, good health, longevity, as well as spiritual and physical strength. May the Almighty Lord multiply the fruits of your labors for the good of the Church of Christ and the people of God. Let the light of Divine love brightly illuminate your life's path and support you in your archpastoral cares and concerns! May the Lord keep you in health and prosperity for many years!"

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

A Monograph by Architectural Historian A.V. Molodin dedicated to Churches in North America is Released

The first volume from the trilogy "Orthodox Domes of America" by A.V. Molodin dedicated to the history of 30 Orthodox parishes on the North American continent that are under the jurisdiction of the Patriarchal Parishes in the United States, the Orthodox Church in America and the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia has been released. The book is illustrated with numerous photographs, historical illustrations, and the reader also has the opportunity to take a virtual tour of the churches using the free Lexavision application by scanning a special QR code, which is supplied alongside all articles of the book. Each article of the book has a parallel translation into English. You can purchase the book by clicking here. ***

The history of the parishes is preceded by a greeting from the Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada, Bishop Matthew of Sourozh: To the President of the foundation “Heritage”, member of the Committee for the Preservation of the Russian Cultural and Historical Heritage at the Congress of Compatriots in the United States A.N. Molodin "Dear Alexander Vladimirovich! I have read with great interest your monograph dedicated to the preservation of the spiritual and cultural heritage of Russian Orthodoxy in the United States of America, captured in historical and architectural monuments.

It is gratifying to note that at present the topic under consideration continues to arouse keen interest not only among Orthodox compatriots, but is also becoming more and more popular among those who are just beginning to discover the original unique heritage of the Russian Orthodox Church. Being the same age as the statehood of the United States, Russian Orthodoxy on the North American continent, through the efforts of its missionaries, made a significant contribution to the formation of many aspects of the life of the peoples of America, hospitably opened its arms to Orthodox fellow believers from various countries, for which the United States became a second homeland.

Having gone through all the trials of the 20th century with its flock, the Russian Orthodox Church has preserved its spiritual heritage in North America, which today is carefully preserved and multiplied in the parishes and monasteries of the autocephalous Orthodox Church in America, in the Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA and in the Russian Church Abroad.

I express my sincere gratitude and deep gratitude for the fact that in your research you paid special attention to the history and architectural features of the selected churches of all the above jurisdictions, for the clergy and laity of which 2020 is marked by many anniversaries and memorable events - the 225th anniversary of the beginning of the mission of Venerable Herman of Alaska, the 50th anniversary of the autocephaly of the Orthodox Church in America and the formation of Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada, as well as the 100th anniversary of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.

I call upon you and all those who labored to publish the book "Orthodox Domes of America" the blessing of God and prayerfully wish this work to serve as a fascinating guide for its readers to the wonderful and wonderful world of Russian Orthodoxy in North America.

+ MATTHEW, Bishop of Sourozh, Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada

"The Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA - www.mospatusa.com"

Paschal Epistle of His Holiness, Patriarch Kyrill, to the Archpastors, Pastors, Deacons, Monastics & All the Faithful Children of the Russian Orthodox Church

Your Graces the archpastors, reverend pastors and deacons, all-honorable monks and nuns, dear brothers and sisters:

On this chosen and holy day, full of Paschal joy and glorious light, the life-affirming glad tidings are being passed on from mouth to mouth, from heart to heart:

CHRIST IS RISEN!

In these words, we confess the unshakeable faith in Him, at Whose Cross we stood on Holy Friday and for Whom we mourned along with His disciples and the myrrh-bearing women when praying before the Shroud. And this very day, together with the Angelic Host, revealing the unity of the earthly and the Heavenly Church, we triumphantly proclaim: "Today salvation is come to the world; for Christ is risen as Almighty" (Paschal Canon, Irmos of Ode 4).

The Pascha of the Lord is the most striking testimony to God’s wisdom and the boundless love of the Creator for humankind. The dawn of history, as we know, was darkened by the spiritual tragedy – through the fall of our first parents, the doors of Paradise were closed to mankind, and from that time onward, suffering and death have been the inevitable consequence of human sinfulness. Yet, having lost the communion with God, the Source of life, people were not deprived of His mercy and love.

At the same time, as Nicholas Cabasilas, a 14th century saint, wrote, "the love of God was boundless, yet there was no sign to express it" (The Life in Christ, Homily VI). Love manifests itself in doing good for one’s neighbors and in the willingness to endure hardships, distress, and even sufferings for their sake, and the Savior demonstrates all of these. By His Incarnation, He renews the human nature damaged by sin, and by His work on the Cross He delivers us from the power of evil. "Thus we have received life in Christ," Venerable Ephraim the Syrian concludes, "We have eaten His Body in place of the fruit of the Tree…, the curse has been washed away by His innocent blood and in the hope of resurrection… we walk in the new life [of Him]" (Commentary on the Diatessaron, 21).

The Resurrection of the Savior opened to humanity the doors of the Heavenly Kingdom and filled our earthly life with the intransient meaning. The Lord "gave Himself to all those believing in Him as the model of virtue, and acquired incorruption so that all who are being saved may tread in His steps," as Venerable Maximus the Confessor writes (The Ambigua, 42). To do it, we must here, on earth, learn to breathe the air of eternity, "putting off the old man with his deeds" (Col 3:9), living our life in accordance with the Gospel and participating in the acraments of the Holy Church, which is the heiress of God’s great promises.

Faith in the Resurrection of the Savior quenches the flame of worldly tribulations and allows a person to rise above worldly vanity, helping resist temptations of sin and overcome various fears. In response to the this Divine love, we are called to demonstrate "charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned" (I Tim 1:5); in response to His loving kindness – to show mercy to people around us; and in response to His care – to strive to build the life of society in accord with the lofty ideals of the Gospel.

Transcending ethnic and national boundaries, the Paschal celebration spiritually unites millions of Christians living in different countries. This polyphonic earthly choir, in concert with all the bodiless Powers of Heaven, gives praise to the Lord Jesus, Who "shed [His] blood for all, and… redeemed the world with His life" (Octoechos, Tone 6, Saturday Matins Stichera).

From year to year, from century to century, from millennium to millennium, this thanksgiving triumphantly resounds throughout the world – resounds despite all temptations, hardships, and ordeals. And it does not stop today, when the world is suffering from baneful pestilence.

At these trying times, it is particularly important to support those diseased and infirm, those grieving over the loss of their relatives and friends, those who have lost their livelihood, those who cannot come to church. Let us do what we can to help the afflicted, let us not walk with indifference past people in need of our concern, attention, and care.

Just recently, because of the epidemiological measures, many of us could not attend the divine services. The experience we have gained shows how important it is to value and take every opportunity to pray together and participate in the services, the Holy Sacraments and, above all, the Divine Eucharist that unites us with Christ and with one another.

My dears, I heartily greet you with the great feast of Pascha and wish you good health and abundant mercies from Jesus the Giver of life. May the gracious Lord vouchsafe all of us to more perfectly partake of Him in the unwaning Day of His Kingdom and to joyfully proclaim:

CHRIST IS RISEN!

INDEED, CHRIST IS RISEN!

+KYRILL

PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA

Pascha of Christ 2021 A.D.

Moscow

Great Lent 2021 Update

Great Lent begins Monday, March 15, 2021. Join us as we start our journey and preparation to celebrate Pascha on May 2, 2021.

Schedule of Services:

First Week of Great Lent

- Wednesday, March 17th Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts 6:30PM

- Friday, March 19th Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30PM

- Saturday, March 20th Vespers 6PM

- Sunday, March 21st Sunday of Triumph of Orthodoxy 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior

Second Week of Great Lent

- Wednesday, March 24th Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts 6:30PM

- Friday, March 26th Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30PM

- Saturday, March 27th Soul Saturday10 AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior, AND Vespers 6PM

- Sunday, March 28th St. Gregory of Palamas 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior

Third Week of Great Lent

- Wednesday, March 31st Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts 6:30PM

- Friday, April 2nd Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30PM

- Saturday, April 3rd Vespers 6PM

- Sunday, April 4th Adoration of Holy Cross 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior

Fourth Week of Great Lent

- Tuesday, April 6th Vespers at 6PM

- Wednesday, April 7th Holy Great Feast of Annunciation 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior

Note, this is a Feast Day so there is no Presanctified Liturgy in the evening

- Friday, April 9th Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30 PM

- Saturday, April 10th Vespers at 6PM

- Sunday, April 11th St. John of Climacus (The Ladder) 10 AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior

Fifth Week of Great Lent

- Wednesday, April 14th Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts 6:30 PM

- Friday, April 16th Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30 PM

- Saturday, April 17th Soul Saturday 10 AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior AND Vespers at 6 PM

- Sunday, April 18th St. Mary of Egypt 10 AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours prior, Panikhida follows

Sixth Week of Great Lent

- Wednesday, April 21st Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts 6:30 PM

- Friday, April 23rd Great Cannon of St. Andrew of Crete 6:30 PM

- Saturday, April 24th Lazarus Saturday Liturgy at 10 AM, Reading of Hours prior AND Vespers at 6 PM

- Sunday, April 25th Entry of Our Lord Into Jerusalem Divine LIturgy at 10 AM, Reading of Hours prior

Greetings For the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to the Clergy, Monastics and Laity of the Diocese of Sourozh and the Patriarchal Parishes of the USA & Canada

Dear Fathers, brothers and sisters!

The time for spiritual celebration has approached - the Church invites us to enter the Holy Days, beginning with the feast of the Nativity of Christ and concluding with the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord. The sacred events of the Gospel narrative remembered by the Church unite us with a common joy of the coming into the world of Christ the Savior and a common hope for deliverance of mankind from sin and eternal death.

This past year has become for all of us a year of unexpected trials, including stressful concerns regarding the health of our relatives, friends and acquaintances, restrictions in the celebration of divine services, and the inability to share the joy of common prayer, and much, much more.

I sincerely thank the clergy and parishioners of the Diocese of Sourozh, the Patriarchal parishes in the USA, Canada and Mexico for their selfless fulfillment of their assigned obedience’s, for their responsible and careful approach to the observance of all the instructions prescribed by His Holiness, the Patriarch, and the demonstration of civic consciousness with the implementation of the decisions of the local authorities. This was an example of Christian love for one's neighbor. By deed and word, support was provided to those who required special attention and care.

I pray with you that the coming New Year will be marked by the long-awaited deliverance from the destructive epidemic and filled with peace and prosperity. I believe that the All-Merciful Lord, who has manifested His goodness to the human race many times and in many ways, will visit all those who have faith in Him and renew our spiritual and physical strength.

I wholeheartedly congratulate all of you, dear Fathers, brothers and sisters, with the birth of our Lord and Savior and prayerfully wish all of you good health and spiritual joy and call your attention to the words of the Apostle Paul: “Work hard and do not be lazy. Serve the Lord with a heart full of devotion. Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times” (Rom. 12: 11-12).

I invoke the blessing of God on all of you.

With love in our newborn Christ,

+Matthew

Bishop of Sourozh

Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes

in the USA & Canada

Nativity Message from the Chancery of the Moscow Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USAand Fr. Luka

The people who walk in spiritual darkness will see a great Light; Those who live in the dark land, The Light will shine on them. (Isaiah 9:2)

Dear in the Lord, Reverend Fathers, Brothers & Sisters!

Christ is Born! С Рождеством Христовым!

Very soon we will celebrate the entry of the pre-eternal God into time and history of humanity. We marvel at the humility of the God who comes to Bethlehem to be born in a cave. We all should stand in awe of the Creator who is coming forth from the Virgin's womb, not to accuse or condemn a sinful world that trembles in a darkness, but to bind up its wounds and to show it love and compassion.

The life of baby Jesus began in a community that was uncertain, and was marked by fear, change and suffering. God didn't come in a time of peace and prosperity but a time of difficulty and despair. In a time of uncertainty, God is the only certainty of this world. His Eternal love for mankind, can help us to have hope and peace and even joy.

We all should look forward towards the Nativity of Christ this year because we need this holy time to remind us all that IN JESUS, GOD IS WITH US!

I pray that our Almighty God will send His blessing upon you and your families and bring the Light of healing that can dispel every darkness to this troubled and tumultuous world.

With Love in the Newborn Christ,

Archpriest George Konyev

Chancellor of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA

Nativity of Christ 2020/2021

CHRIST IS BORN! ~ Христос рождается!

As we begin the Nativity week of services, the clergy of St. Michael the Archangel parish would like to take this opportunity to joyously greet you with the Great and Holy Feast of Christ's Nativity. Wishing you a prayerful, healthy and peaceful Nativity season. May Christ be born anew in each and every one of us!

With Love, Yours In Christ,

Father Luka

If You Shop Online, You Can Support Our Parish

At this time of year, as we begin buying gifts for our friends and family, this is a reminder that if you purchase items from Amazon, St. Michael's could benefit from your purchases, this holiday season. When you shop online, remember to choose our church [St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church, Philadelphia], as your charitable organization recipient, in order for our church to benefit from the charitable donation program at Amazon. Every purchase made through smile.amazon.com helps the church, by receiving a percentage of your purchase in donation made by Amazon. To sign up or participate go to smile.amazon.com . Everyone is welcome! Ask your family and friends if they shop Amazon. If they do, they too, can help support the church. Share the information, please, and in this way St. Michael's will benefit, this holiday season as well as throughout the whole year.

Memory Eternal

It is with deepest sympathy that we share this recent news. We are saddened to learn of Father Luka's father, Dragan Novakovic, passing away, today. Our heartfelt condolences and loving prayers are extended to Father Luka and his family. Fr. Luka will be traveling until mid December. In the event of an emergency, please contact Council President Nadine Sokoluk or call the office.

May the merciful Lord give repose to the soul of His deceased servant of God, Dragan, in the mansions of the righteous and make his memory eternal.

Vechnaya Pamyat!

Epistle of Bishop Matthew on the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Patriarchal Parishes

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On Sunday, September 6, 2020, Bishop Matthew blessed a special Litany for the Departed which was read for the "departed hierarchs, clergy and faithful of the Patriarchal Parishes in the United States" during the Divine Liturgy. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, the epistle below was read aloud.

His Grace Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA delivered an epistle to the clergy and faithful on the 50th Anniversary of the Establishement of the Patriarchal Parishes.

Beloved in Christ, dear fathers, brothers & sisters!

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on this significant date - the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the United States of America and Canada.

Exactly 50 years ago, in 1970, special canonical subdivisions of the Russian Orthodox Church were formed, uniting the Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the United States of America, Canada and Mexico, which are under canonical jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate under the omophorion of the Most Holy Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus'.

Commemorating this anniversary and reflecting on the past, we must thank the Lord for all of His many and ineffable blessings bestowed on the clergy and faithful children of the Russian Orthodox Church on the North American continent.

Today, we prayerfully remember the 42nd anniversary of the blessed repose of Metropolitan Nikodim (Rotov), the first Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada. The life of the Patriarchal Parishes is inspired by the archpastoral instruction and personal example of this outstanding hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church, who stood at the origins of new ecclesiastical life in North America. The apostolic word of Metropolitan Nikodim was addressed to everyone who sought the truth, regardless of nationality, social status or religious views. Through the efforts of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Nikodim, Orthodox brotherhoods and sisterhoods were opened in North America, parish schools were established, and new clergy were ordained. Many of the clergy, ordained by Vladyka Nikodim were Americans who converted to Orthodoxy, and later led generations of English-speaking parishioners to Christ.

For many years, the ecclesiastical and administrative center of the Russian Orthodox Church in the United States has been and remains Saint Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral in New York City, which was given the status of the Representation of the Moscow Patriarchate to the Autocephalous Orthodox Church in America. Saint Nicholas Cathedral, a symbol of the presence of Russian Orthodoxy in America, was built under the leadership of the future Hieromartyr Protopresbyter Alexander Hotovitsky and was consecrated in 1902 by Bishop Tikhon (Belavin) of North America who would later become the Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia. An example of the legacy of Saint Tikhon and his archpastoral labors is the Cathedral of Holy Great Martyr Barbara in the city of Edmonton, the province of Alberta, which remains the center of the spiritual and educational mission in Canada.

The Patriarchal Parishes in North America serve not only as a place of worship, but also carry out a large missionary and social ministry, uniting a large multicultural flock. Closely related to the activities of the Patriarchal Parishes is the work of the Representation of the World Russian People's Council to the United Nations, which has been successfully carried out for many years.

We give thanks to the Lord and giver of all blessings for His mercies shown to us. With love and gratitude, we prayerfully honor the memory of all who have labored for Holy Orthodoxy in the countries of North America: hierarchs, clergy of all ranks, members of parish committees and councils, choir directors and chanters, Sunday school teachers, members of brotherhoods and sisterhoods.

Today, celebrating the 50th anniversary in the difficult conditions of modern life and the trials facing all of mankind, following the example of our devout and pious predecessors, let us be courageous and strong so that in accordance with the words of the apostles, we may have common joy to praise God and be in favor among all the people, so that the Lord may add daily those to the Church who are being saved. (Acts 2:47).

May God's blessings be with all of you through the intercession of Saint Tikhon and all the saints who have shown forth in the lands of America & Canada.

+MATTHEW

Bishop of Sourozh

Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada

September 4, 2020

Paschal Epistle of His Holiness, Patriarch Kyrill, to the Archpastors, Pastors, Deacons, Monastics & All the Faithful Children of the Russian Orthodox Church

Eminent archpastors, reverend fathers, all-honorable monks and nuns, dear brothers and sisters:

CHRIST IS RISEN!

By the grace of the All-Merciful God, we have been vouchsafed to arrive at the radiant Paschal night, and once again rejoice in the glorious Resurrection of Christ. I sincerely greet all of you, my dear ones, with this great feast and "festival of festivals."

Almost two thousand years separate us from the event we recall today. And yet, every year with unfailing spiritual awe, the Church celebrates the Resurrection of the Lord, tirelessly bearing witness to the exceptional nature of what occurred in the burial cave by the walls of ancient Jerusalem.

The whole earthly path of the Son of God – from His miraculous Incarnation to His Passion and terrible death on the Cross – is the fulfillment of the Maker’s promise, once given to our forefathers. God promised to send into the world the One Who "hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows" (Isaiah 53:4) and Who "shall save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). The Lord affirmed this promise through His prophets many times, He remained true to this vow even when the chosen people rejected the covenant and violated the will of the Creator.

It is, then, in the Resurrection of Christ that God’s love is revealed in its fullness, for death has finally been vanquished – the last boundary separating man from the true Fount of life. And although death continues to exist in the physical sense and takes away our human bodies, it no longer has the power to destroy our souls, that is to say, to deny us life everlasting in communion with the Maker. Death has been defeated and its sting has been removed (cf. I Cor. 15:55). The Lord has "led captivity captive" (Eph. 4:8) and cast down Hades. "With God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37), for truly "He is risen, as He said" (Matthew 28:6)!

This year, the peoples of the world face extraordinary ordeals. A baneful epidemic has spread throughout the whole world and has come to our lands, as well. The authorities have introduced restrictions in order to avert a rapid spread of the epidemic. In some countries of the Moscow Patriarchate’s pastoral responsibility, public worship, including the celebration of Divine Liturgy, has been suspended. However, we Orthodox Christians are not to be despondent or to despair in these difficult circumstances; even more so, we should not surrender to panic. We are called upon to preserve our inner peace and recall the words of the Savior spoken on the eve of His redemptive Passion: "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

Pascha has become for all of humanity the transition from enslavement to sin to the freedom of the Kingdom of Heaven, "the glorious liberty of the children of God" (Rm. 8:21). It is only thanks to the Savior’s Resurrection that we obtain the true freedom of which the all-praised Apostle Paul speaks, calling upon us to "stand fast… in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free" (Gal. 5:1). How many times have we read or heard these words? Now let us consider: do we live today as though Christ’s Resurrection never happened? Are we not in danger of exchanging the riches of eternity for never-ending worldly concerns, once more being held captive to the vanity of this world, surrendering to transient fears and forgetting the incorrupt spiritual treasures and true calling of the Christian to "serve [the Lord] in holiness and righteousness before Him" (Luke 1:75)?

And yet, "pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this" (James 1:27): to treat each other with love and patience, to help and support one another in tribulations, following the example of the Good Shepherd shown to us in the Gospel. No outward restrictions should ever tear apart our unity and take away from us the true spiritual freedom which we have obtained through knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Who has conquered death and granted to us the opportunity to "be called [and to be] the sons of God" (I John 3:1).

All of the faithful children of the Church are of "one heart and one soul" (Acts 4:32), for apart we are but members, while together we are the Body of Christ and nothing in all creation "shall be able to separate us from the love of God" (Rm. 8:39). Therefore, let those who today are unable for reasons of circumstance to come to church and pray, know that they are being remembered and prayed for. Faith grants to us the strength to live and overcome with God’s help all sorts of infirmities and tribulations, including that which has become a part of our lives through the spread of this dangerous virus.

I fervently call upon all of you, my dear ones, to augment your common prayer to the Lord, so that we may, in spite of all hardships, remain partakers of the grace-filled liturgical life of the Church, so that the Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist may be celebrated and the faithful may with boldness draw near to the Fount of Life which are the Holy Mysteries of Christ, and so that the sick may receive healing and the healthy be protected from this dangerous infection.

We believe that the Risen Savior will never forsake us, and that He will send down upon us the resolve and courage to stand steadfastly in faith and to walk our salvific earthly path to life everlasting.

I sincerely congratulate all of you, my beloved brothers and sisters, on the radiant feast of Holy Pascha, and call upon you to always be the image of the Savior’s true disciples in setting a good example to the people around you, and in proclaiming the mighty acts of the One "Who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light" (I Peter 2:9), so that all the days of our life we may through our deeds testify to the unsurpassed power and truth of the Paschal greeting:

TRULY CHRIST IS RISEN!

+KYRILL
Patriarch of Moscow & All Russia

Pascha 2020 A.D.
Moscow

Palm Sunday Message

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Spraznikom! I greet you with great joy upon this Feast! For today, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, enters Jerusalem greeted by the faithful, of which the children are first. Let us begin Holy Week with a pure heart, without fear, as they did when they greeted our Lord and Savior waving palm branches and singing, "Hosanna! Hosanna! Hosanna, in the Highest!"

Sorrow will be forthcoming, as Jesus' final steps on earth are our path to follow this week, in anticipation of the glorious Resurrection. It is through tears and suffering, Our Lord gives us hope and the promise of His love and life eternal.

The course is set ahead of us, let us each find the strength to take these steps, finding peace and love in a world that is uncertain in its time. For we know, God has given His only Son, for us, so that we shall live forever. Let us rejoice today, for Jesus has entered the city of Jerusalem, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord."

Glory to God for all! As we see these days, the whole world is one and only Temple of Jesus Christ, and we are not separated. Although sometimes we feel it is so, but it is truly the opposite. We have gained much more than ever imagined. Thanks to God, we received a great gift which shows us that being apart from each other, we have a better understanding of how close we are to God, and how close we are with our dear ones and to all mankind.

In these days of lethal danger, we are learning about patience with each other in our private life and in our Community. As the days of Great Lent are going on in this very specific situation, we are being pointed to our Great Teacher and Pathfinder, what are our priorities for every relationship and how everything needs to be set up until our next gathering.

Glory to God for the warmness of prayers to our Great Father and Lover of mankind, such that we are feeling connected to the whole Orthodox world, to our Holy Places and Holy Fathers.

Merry Feast of the Entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem and into our homes and our hearts. These circumstances finally helped us, that through prayer we have faced our own lives, deeds and relations. The Holy Orthodox Church is not stopping, it continues to pray for its flock and for the good being of the whole world. Glory to God for all!

God bless,

Fr Luka

Entry of our Lord into Jerusalem, or Palm Sunday, Troparion, Tone I —
Thou didst give a pledge of the general resurrection before Thy Passion, O Christ our God, by raising Lazarus from the dead. Therefore, we too, like the children, carry the symbols of victory and cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the Heights! Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord.

Kontaklon, Tone VI —
On the throne in heaven and riding a colt on earth, O Christ our God, Thou didst receive the praise of Angels and the chorus of the children who cried to Thee: Blessed art Thou Who comest to recall Adam.

Coronavirus COVID-19 Update

Services Continue as Scheduled - PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS INFORMATION IS NO LONGER CURRENT. FOR UPDATES, PLEASE GO TO OUR CORONAVIRUS-COVID PAGE .

We want to inform you of the following precautionary measures we are taking for our parish community in relation to Coronavirus COVID-19. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in these matters.

Your help is also needed, by maintaining personal hygiene practices to lessen the impact. We can help the germs from spreading by following the preventive measures shared by health officials, while maintaining our life as the faithful in Christ.

Please remember, services will be streamed via Facebook.

Key Points

Our church is gathering as per normal at this time.
If you or your family member are feeling unwell please stay home and rest, seek medical attention and do not attend any church services or gatherings.
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, you should have already received medical attention and been instructed to be in home isolation. Regardless of whether you have, please do not attend.
We are monitoring the situation regularly and are following the advice given by relevant health authorities.
There will be hand sanitizer and hard surfaces will be wiped down regularly.
In addition, we ask that you please practice good hygiene by frequently washing your hands with either soap or hand sanitizer and by using good cough/sneeze etiquette. We also request that you maintain social distancing (6 feet) from fellow parishioners.

Any questions regarding spiritual life please contact Fr Luka. We will be keeping you updated with any changes. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this developing situation.

Here are links for some additional information:

Bishop Matthew of Sourozh has posted a statement about the Coronavirus, https://mospatusa.com/news_200312_3
Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe statement, https://orthodox-europe.org/2020/03/05/coronavirus-message/

Youth Focus on Confession - March 22

Prior to start and following Divine Liturgy on Sunday, March 22nd, this will be an opportunity to partake in the Sacrament of Confession together as a group. Each child individually will experience Confession. Father Luka will guide through the steps for each child, however, we will all be doing it together. Great lent is a time for reflection and repentance. For some children this may be a first time, for others, not. Our recent class discussions have been inclusive of stories about confession and ways to make things right when we sin. Fr Luka will discuss the Sacrament of Confession with all of our youth (3/8 & 3/15). Any questions you may have in advance for Father Luka, please send to Miss Nadine or Mr. Ken. All questions will be compiled into one list and shared with Father Luka. This discussion will be no longer than 15 minutes downstairs in the hall. Following discussion, additional Lenten activities will be available for those who would like to participate.

Illuminate Pascha

We will once again be selling luminaries, which we will light around the church on Holy Saturday night. The candles are to burn for 4-5 hours.

You can buy a luminary "For the health of" or "For the memory of" your loved ones. Remember all of your family and friends on this joyous occasion.

Luminaries are $5 each or 6 for $25.

To purchase your luminaries please contact or see Tatiana Veres before Sunday, April 12th.

If an indoor procession is required due to weather, we will make arrangements to light these luminaries on another occasion in the coming weeks.

2020 Great Lenten Schedule

Great Lent is fast approaching:

Begins Clean Monday, March 2nd

Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesdays 6:30PM followed by Lenten Potluck, beginning March 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, April 1st, 8th

Sunday of Orthodoxy March 8th Divine Liturgy 10AM with Procession of Icons followed by Coffee Hour

Sunday of St. Gregory of Palamas March 15th Divine Liturgy 10AM followed by Coffee Hour

Sunday of Adoration of Holy Cross March 22nd Divine Liturgy 10AM followed by Coffee Hour

Sunday of St. John Climacus (the Ladder)March 29th Divine Liturgy 10AM followed by Coffee Hour

Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt April 5th Divine Liturgy 10AM followed by by Coffee Hour

Great Feast of Entry into Jerusalem, Palm Sunday Sunday, April 12th Blessing of Pussywillows 9:30 AM, Divine Liturgy 10AM with Procession, followed by Bring a Fish Dish/Annual Seafood Feast Coffee Hour by Women's Fellowship.

2020 Church Council Installation

Fr. Luka installed the 2020 Parish Council after Divine Liturgy on February 2. The members of Council were elected at the Annual Meeting on January 26.

Celebrate the Meeting of the Lord in the Temple on February 15

Saturday, February 15th: Great Feast of Meeting of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple Feast Divine Liturgy 10 AM

Spaghetti Dinner 2020

The traditional Spaghetti Dinner will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2020 in the Church hall following services. Enjoy "An Italian Tour" Menu which includes: Spaghetti, Fettuccine Alfredo, Baked Ziti, Chicken Marsala, Meatballs, Sausage, Italian Rolls & Butter and more! Cost: Adults: $15.00; Children ages 3-10: $10.00; Under 3: Free. Take out will be available if you cannot stay for the festivities. Donations to offset the cost and/or donations of beverages and desserts are greatly appreciated. Please contact: Diane Patrick.

Respondents, please leave message with number of adults & number of children & a return contact number for confirmation.

Theophany 2020

Great Feast of Theophany Eve is Saturday, January 18th Divine Liturgy 10AM with Blessing of Water.

Feast is Sunday, January 19th Divine Liturgy 10AM with Blessing of Water followed by Women's Fellowship Coffee Hour Fundraiser. No Reservations Required.

Christmas 2020 Message and Service Information

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, has shone to the world the light of wisdom!

These stirring words of the hymn teach us that the Nativity of Our Savior is a time to rejoice, for, with His miraculous birth from a Virgin’s womb, a brilliant light finally has illuminated the darkness of a world tainted for centuries by the fall of man in the Garden. The Sun of Righteous and the Orient from on High!

And for us, the Orthodox Christians living in this God-protected land of America, that light shines brightly at this time of the year as we are twice blessed: Sharing the joy that that light brings to our friends and extended families on that day of Peace on Earth in December and then focusing our prayers, without the distractions of that world, on the Eve and Feast of Christ’s Nativity.

Father Luka

Christ is born! Glorify Him! Христос Рождается! Славите Егo!

January 6, Nativity Eve Vigil: Compline followed by Matins will begin at 7:15 pm preceded by Holy Supper/Shared Meal at 6:00 pm

January 7, Nativity, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am

Parking Accommodations for Christmas Day 2020

Arrangements for parking accommodations have been made with the Philadelphia Parking Authority for Christmas Day Tuesday, January 7th, 2020. Please note the hours covered are to allow for attending services and festivities on Christmas Day,

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 th 9:00 am to 1:30 pm

PLEASE NOTE: ALL parking regulations and restrictions need to be obeyed; will take precedence over any accommodations granted and will be strictly enforced by both the Authority and by the Police Department.

Handicap Parking in front of the church is NOT part of this accommodation. It is only available on Sunday.

PLEASE NOTE: If you choose to park on surrounding streets, it is necessary to clearly display a parking placard from the church prominently on the dashboard window of the car.

Following are the specific areas that have been granted courtesy for Christmas Day parking accommodations:

300-400 Brown St. Both Sides

(400 Brown Loading Zone will be enforced accordingly).

400 Fairmount Ave Both Sides

(300 Fairmount is RPP=Resident Parking Permit and will be enforced accordingly).

300-400 Callowhill St. North Side

(South Side is running lane and will be enforced accordingly).

300-400 Spring Garden St. North Side, 400-500, & 700 N. 4th St. Callowhill St. to Green St. and Fairmount St. to Brown St.

(Green to Fairmount has RPP=Resident Parking Permit and will be enforced accordingly).

400-500 N. 3rd St. Callowhill St. to Green St.

(Green St. to Brown St. has RPP and will be enforced accordingly).

If you choose to park in one of the church parking lots, we ask you to move as close to other cars as possible to allow more room for others to park, DO NOT BLOCK OPEN PARKING SPACES PLEASE and you must display a church placard on the dashboard with your name or church ID #. See office or candle desk for placard.

Enjoy the Great Feast of the Nativity of Christ!

Coverage while Fr. Luka is away

Father Luka is traveling out of the country from Monday December 16th until Thursday January 2nd. In Father Luka's absence, Father Gregory (Winsky) will be serving Divine Liturgy on Sundays, December 22nd and December 29th.

Also, in the case of emergency, please contact Father Gregory (Winsky) by phone (609) 405-1920 or by email winsky42@gmail.com.

Celebration of Patron Saint

St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church Celebration of Patron Saint

Kermesh Luncheon - Sunday, November 17, 2019

Divine Liturgy at 10:00 AM

Catered luncheon to follow after Divine Liturgy in Church Hall

Adults $25, Children $5

Reservation & payment requested by Sunday, November 10 – via church office or email office@saintmichaelsroc.org

St. Michael Feast Day – Thursday, November 21, 2019

Join us to pray on the day devoted to our church’s patron saint. Divine Liturgy at 10:00 AM with luncheon provided by Women’s Fellowship

September 22 Celebration and Appreciation

On Sunday September 22nd the Archpriest Luka Novakovic was the Chief Celebrant of his first Divine Liturgy as Rector of St. Michael the Archangel Church in Philadelphia. His co-celebrant was the recently retired Father Gregory Winsky, and Father Deacon Michael Ardan. After Divine Liturgy a wonderful celebratory Luncheon was prepared by the Women's Fellowship of the Parish to welcome Father Luka, and to celebrate Father Winsky's 35 years of service to the St. Michaels parish.

Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos

On Saturday September 21nd the Divine Liturgy was celebrated to commemorate the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos. This Liturgy was also the introduction of the new Rector of St. Michael the Archangel Church in Philadelphia, the Archpriest Father Luka Novakovic. We were blessed to have the Archpriest Father John Vass as the Chief Celebrant conducting this Liturgy along with the Archpriest Father Luka, and the recently retired Father Gregory Winsky. Father Proto Deacon Leonid Roschko and Father Deacon Michael Ardan were also serving that Liturgy.

Retirement of Fr. Gregory Winsky

Dear Parishioners and Parish Family and Friends,

On behalf of the church council, I am sharing an announcement made on Sunday, September 8th, at the conclusion of Divine Liturgy, by Fr. Gregory Winsky. Father Gregory announced to the parish that he has been blessed by our Bishop to retire as rector of St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church. Fr. Gregory said that he reached the age of 70 this year and thanked the parish, on behalf of Matushka Dianne, for the support of the parish over their 35 years of service in many capacities: as choir members, as church school teachers, in the Women's Fellowship, as readers, and for the past 18 years in Fr. Gregory's clerical service, first as Fr. Vincent's deacon and then as Fr. Vincent's assistant priest.

Father Gregory explained that Father Luka Novakovic is being assigned as the new rector of Saint Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church at 4th and Fairmount. Father Luka has an extensive background in Orthodoxy and dedication to God's Holy church. He is traveling from the state of Florida to join us.

We are welcoming Father Luka to our parish with the following timeline of the transition:

Sunday, September 15th - Fr. Gregory will serve Divine Liturgy as usual.
Saturday, September 21st - Divine Liturgy to formally introduce Fr. Luka. This is the feast day of the Nativity of the Theotokos.
Sunday, September 22nd - Fr. Luka will lead Divine Liturgy with Fr. Gregory co-celebrating.
- Acknowledgement of Father Gregory's service to our parish and a fond farewell will be marked as well as a warm welcome extended to Father Luka Novakovic during coffee hour.
- From this day, Fr. Luka will assume the responsibilities of rector.

In the upcoming, period of transition, we will share more information about opportunities for you to get to know Father Luka.

Any questions please feel free to contact me,

Thank you,

With Love,

Nadine Sokoluk

President

SixRussian@aol.com

Looking for a Church Sexton/Handyperson

St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church

Title: Sexton

Qualifications and Skills: Must be able to work independently; with limited day-to-day guidance or monitoring. Must be able to communicate in both oral and written form; read, understand and follow instructions, schedules and safety label directions. Must be able to lift, push, pull and move equipment, supplies, etc. up to 50 pounds. Must be able to make minor repairs.

Must successfully pass a criminal background check

Preference to candidates who live in close proximity and/or have ability to get to church promptly if needed.

Responsibilities:

The sexton’s immediate supervisor is the Council President. Sexton may also receive direction from the Pastor.

Open and close the church on Sundays and Feast Days as needed. Perform assigned tasks during the period.
Open and close church for special services, including funerals, weddings and baptisms as needed. Assigned tasks include: coordinate funeral director arrivals with pastor, schedule to receive flowers for funerals and weddings. Tidy up church after funerals and weddings.
Assist the priest in Baptism preparation.
Snow removal. Clear and salt sidewalks when light snow falls for which there is no third party contractor. After third party snow removal, salt sidewalks, if needed, prior to scheduled church services.
Perform light maintenance/repairs of church and Sunday School with approval of Property Committee.
Report maintenance issues to Parish Council President or Property Committee.
Open and close the church for vendors contracted to perform maintenance services.
If appropriate, assist the Priest in maintaining the Altar area of the church.

Time commitment not defined.

Compensation: $15 per hour paid monthly.

Candidates should send letter of interest with references to office@saintmichaelsroc.org.

Summer Hours _ June 9

Divine Liturgy will begin at 9:30AM on Sunday, June 9.

(summer hours end the Sunday after Labor Day)

Help Needed: We will be moving select items for celebrating Divine Liturgy downstairs into the church hall following services on Sunday, June 9th.

Please consider lending a helping hand, and strong muscles.

Please see Joe Rutherford, Ken Koscinski or Nadine Sokoluk for details and directions.

Divine Liturgy will be in the church until further notice. Set-up is in preparation only. Services will remain upstairs in church until weather no longer allows for the summer months.

110th Anniversary Events

St. Michael the Archangel parish is celebrating our 110th anniversary this year and we want you to be part of it. Please be sure to visit our website and/or see the Sunday Bulletin for updates. For more information and/or to be involved, contact Fr. Gregory, Nadine Sokoluk or Barbara Saverino.

110th Anniversary Events

May 5, 2019 - St. Thomas Sunday at Oakland Cemetery blessing of graves will begin with a service at the grave of the departed Archpriest Vincent after Divine Liturgy
June 9, 2019 - Philadelphia Phillies versus Cincinnati Reds game at 1:05 PM at Citizens Bank Park. Join our group and contact Barbara Saverino regarding payment and reservation
July 21, 2019 - Family picnic after Divine Liturgy on church grounds
September 29, 2019 Presentation and Discussion on Repentance and the Sacrament of Confession
October 4-6, 2019 - Festival. Contact Melaney Candelori-Bedard for more information and to get involved
November 17, 2019 - Patronal Feastday Celebration Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the Other Bodiless Powers
December 22, 2019 - Moleben of Thanksgiving and Panykida for St. Michael the Archangel Parish Founders

Pascha 2019 Listing of Services and Events

2019 Service Schedule: Lazarus Saturday, Palm Sunday, Holy Week, Pascha, and Bright Week

April 20 – Lazarus Saturday 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy

April 21 – Palm Sunday 9:30 AM Blessing of Pussy Willows, 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy followed by Palm Sunday Luncheon

April 24 – Holy Wednesday 6:30 PM Holy Unction Service

April 25 – Holy Thursday 10:00 AM Vesperal Liturgy, 6:30 PM Matins of Holy Friday (Twelve Gospels)

April 26 – Holy Friday 2:00 PM Vespers, 7:00 PM Matins of Holy Saturday

April 27 – Holy Saturday

8:30 AM - 10:00 AM Grave Vigil (Readings from the Acts of the Apostles)
10:00 AM Vesperal Liturgy followed by blessing of Paschal foods
11:15 PM Nocturn
11:45 PM Paschal Procession

April 28 – Pascha Midnight Paschal Matins and Divine Liturgy followed by blessing of Paschal foods

April 29 – Bright Monday 10:00 AM Paschal Divine Liturgy, Procession, and “Egg-cellent kids’ activity”

May 4 – Bright Saturday 9:30 AM Hierarchal Paschal Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Baltimore, Maryland

May 5 – St. Thomas Sunday 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy followed by blessing of graves at Oakland Cemetery starting with a service at the grave of the departed Archpriest Vincent of blessed memory

March - May 2019 Calendar of Services and Events

March 2019

17 Sunday First Sunday of Lent, Orthodoxy Sunday Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Procession of Icons, Panykhida, Pan-Orthodox Mission Vespers at St. Michael Church in Wilmington, DE at 4 PM

20 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy at 6:30 PM and potluck Lenten meal to follow

24 Sunday Second Sunday of Lent, St. Gregory Palamas, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Pan-Orthodox Mission Vespers at Church of the Descent of the Holy Spirit in Elkins Park, PA at 4 PM

27 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy at 6:30 PM and potluck Lenten meal to follow

31 Sunday Third Sunday of Lent, Adoration of Cross, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Panykhida for Fr. Vincent, Pan-Orthodox Mission Vespers at St George Church in Upper Darby at 4 PM

April 2019

3 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy at 6:30 PM and potluck Lenten meal to follow

7 Sunday Feast of Annunciation, Fourth Sunday of Lent, St. John Climacus (the Ladder) Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Holy Unction, Pan-Orthodox Mission Vespers at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church in Philadelphia at 4 PM

10 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy at 6:30 PM and potluck Lenten meal to follow

11 Thursday Canon of St. Andrew of Crete at 6:30 PM

14 Sunday Fifth Sunday, St. Mary of Egypt, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Pan-Orthodox Mission Vesper at Mother of God Church in Feasterville, PA at 4 PM

17 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy at 6:30 PM and potluck Lenten meal to follow

20 Saturday Lazarus Saturday, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM – Remembering Departed

21 Sunday Sixth Sunday, Palm Sunday, Blessing of Palms/Pussywillows at 9:30 AM, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Panykhida, Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon

24 Wednesday Holy Unction at 6:30 PM (bring olive oil to be blessed for use at home)

25 Thursday Holy Thursday, Vesperal Liturgy 10 AM, Reading of the Twelve Gospels 6:30 PM

26 Friday Holy Friday Vespers at 2 PM and Great Friday Matins at 7 PM

27 Saturday Holy Saturday, Vesperal Liturgy at 10 AM, Paschal Nocturn at 11:15 PM, Procession 11:45 PM, Midnight Paschal Matins and Divine Liturgy followed by blessing Paschal Foods

29 Monday Bright Monday, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Paschal Foods Coffee Hour, Kids egg hunt

May 2019

4 Saturday Bright Saturday, Hierarchal Paschal Liturgy at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Baltimore Maryland

5 Sunday St. Thomas Sunday, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Holy Unction, Oakland Cemetery blessing of graves will begin with a service at the grave of the departed Archpriest Vincent

12 Sunday Divine Liturgy at 10 AM, Mother’s Day Coffee Hour sponsored by Sunday School

19 Sunday Divine Liturgy at 10 AM

26 Sunday Divine Liturgy at 10 AM

Upcoming Holy Days and Church Events 2019

June 6 Ascension of Our Lord, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM
June 16 Sunday Pentecost, Divine Liturgy at 9:30 AM, Ethnic/Multi-Cultural Covered Dish Coffee
Hour & Father’s Day Luncheon by Parish Youth
June 17 Monday Holy Spirit Day, Divine Liturgy 10 AM
October 4-6 Annual Russian Festival
November 17 Kermesh Luncheon Celebrating 110th Year of Our Parish after Divine Liturgy

2019 Pan-Orthodox Mission Vespers

Here is the listing for 2019:

March 17 Orthodoxy Sunday, St. Michael Church, 2300 East Huntingdon Drive, Wilmington, DE 19808 at 4 PM

March 24 Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas, Church of the Descent of the Holy Spirit, 1324 Ashbourne Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027 at 4 PM

March 31 Sunday of the Precious Cross, St. George Church, 8210 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082 at 4 PM

April 7 Sunday of St. John Climacus, Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church, 2101 South 28th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19145 at 4PM

April 14 Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt, Mother of God Church, 412 Philmont Avenue, Feasterville, PA 19053 at 4 PM

2019 Easter Luminaries

We will once again be selling luminaries, which we will light around the church on Holy Saturday night. The candles burn for 4-5 hours.

You can buy a luminary "For the health of" or "For the memory of" loved ones. Luminaries are $5 each or 6 for $25.

If an indoor procession is required due to weather, we will make arrangements to light these luminaries on another occasion in the coming weeks.

To purchase your luminaries please see Emily Stine or Julianna Aguilar on the following Sundays: March 31th, April 7th, April 14th or April 21st.

March 2, 2019

This Saturday, March 2, is a Soul Saturday; a panykhida will be served at 4:30 pm. Prior to that service, the St. Innocent Orthodox Reading Society will meet at 3 pm to finish our discussion of the book "Repentance and Confession." All are welcome to attend the discussion.

Christmas 2019 Message and Service Information

January 6, Nativity Eve Vigil: Compline followed by Matins will begin at 6:30pm on January 6 preceded by Holy Supper at 5:00pm.

January 7, Nativity, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 AM

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, has shone to the world the light of wisdom!

These stirring words of the hymn teach us that the Nativity of Our Savior is a time to rejoice, for, with His miraculous birth from a Virgin’s womb, a brilliant light finally has illuminated the darkness of a world tainted for centuries by the fall of man in the Garden. The Sun of Righteous and the Orient from on High! And for us, the Orthodox Christians living in this God-protected land of America, that light shines brightly at this time of the year as we are twice blessed: Sharing the joy that that light brings to our friends and extended families on that day of Peace on Earth in December and then focusing our prayers, without the distractions of that world, on the Eve and Feast of Christ’s Nativity.

Christ is born! Glorify Him! Христос Рождается! Славите Егo!

Fr. Gregory

Church Courtyard

The renovation of our courtyard has begun this week (November 12). As a reminder, the courtyard upgrade will remove the bricks that have become chipped, weathered and wobbly over time. The courtyard will also have some improvements to make it more handicap accessible. The project will impact the front parking lot (Fairmount Avenue), front courtyard and front entrance to the church on Fairmount Avenue.

During the renovation project, please:
- do not park there in the front parking lot (Fairmount Avenue)
- do not use the walkways in the Courtyard - which means do not use the front gate entrance or front doors to enter or exit the church.All services, meetings and events are taking place as scheduled. You are asked to access the church by using the side entrance (4th Street) only.

Depending on the weather, we anticipate that the project will be completed in 3 weeks. If you have questions, please contact Council President Nadine Sokoluk.

St. Michael's Day Kermesh

St. Michael's Day Kermesh on Sunday, November 18, 2018

Join us as we celebrate our Patron Feast Day of St. Michael and give thanks for our Orthodox Christian family here in Philadelphia.

Sponsored by St. Michael's Women's Fellowship

Divine Liturgy - 10:00 a.m. followed by meal.

Menu: Baked Hams, Kielbasa + Sauerkraut, Potatoes Deluxe, Macaroni + Cheese, Vegetable, Salad, Various Sides, Wine, Dessert, Coffee and Tea

No advanced tickets required. We hope you can join us.
Adults - $15 Children 6-13 - $7 Children under 6 - free

Funeral Arrangements for Fr. Vincent

Memory Eternal!

Funeral Arrangements for Fr. Vincent are as follows:

Tuesday, September 25

at

St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church

335 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19123

8:30am--10am Viewing at the Church

10am Divine Liturgy

Approximately 11:30am Funeral Service

Approximately 1pm Burial Service

Oakland Cemetery, Adams Ave. & Ramona Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19124

Approximately 2pm Remembrance Luncheon

at St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church

An Obituary will be on the Fletcher Nasevich funeral home site in a day or two. https://www.fletchernasevich.com/

Memory Eternal Archpriest Vincent Saverino who fell asleep in the Lord on September 20. To view a recap of the ceremony please visit https://mospatusa.com/news_180925_3.html .

September 9 Update

Divine Liturgy begins at 10 AM on Sunday, September 9th and will be served in the church proper. At t the end of the Divine Liturgy, there will be a blessing for our students for the new school year. Please make every effort to have all students attend the Divine Liturgy that day.

Supplication Services for the Dormition of the Mother of God

Schedule of 2018 Supplication Services for Dormition of the Mother of God
Sponsored by Orthodox Clergy Brotherhood
All services will begin at 4:00 p.m.

8/12 Descent of the Holy Spirit Romanian Orthodox Church, 1323 Ashbourne Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027
8/19 St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 6740 N. 5th Street, Phila., PA 19126
8/26 St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church, 506 Stahr Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027

Support Philabundance at Our Upcoming Festival

Each year, there are more than 900,000 food insecure people in the Greater Philadelphia region. For more than 10 years, St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church has partnered with Philabundance to help combat this epidemic in our community. We are proud to continue that support today and invite you to join us in our efforts. Not only will you be helping a neighbor in need, you will also be entered into a raffle for a basket full of goodies from local and regional businesses. For each non-perishable food item that you bring during the Russian Festival, or for each dollar you donate online, you will receive one ticket to enter. There is no limit to the number of times you can enter. If you donate online, don't forget to bring your receipt. Through the support of people like you, thousands of seniors, children, working families and others will have access to the basic need of affordable and nutritious food. Thank you for your support of this outstanding local organization and of our annual Russian Festival

Click here to donate online http://phlb.convio.net/goto/Saintmichael

East, West, East: A Personal Spiritual Journey with Khouria Frederica Mathewes-Green on June 16

Join us as the Women’s Fellowship of St. Michael welcomes all for a discussion by the renowned Orthodox Christian Author Khouria Frederica Mathewes-Green on her personal road to Orthodoxy.

East, West, East: A Personal Spiritual Journey
Or How I became a Christian when I was a Hindu hippie: A story much like St. Paul on the road to Emmaus
Saturday June 16, 2018
At 12:00 Noon

A Free light lunch will follow a question and answer session. Several of Khouria Frederica’s books will be available for purchase or bring your own copy of one of her books to be autographed following lunch. Call or email Matushka Anna (Dianne) Winsky by June 14th with the number of attendees or with questions.

Celebrate the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday, May 27

The Feast of Holy Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles in the Upper Chamber in Jerusalem. Each year on the fiftieth day after Pascha all Orthodox Christians celebrate the establishment of the Church through the preaching of the Apostles and the baptism of the thousands who on that day believed in the message of salvation through the Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. On the day of Pentecost, Orthodox Christians can once again get down on their knees to pray for the first time since Pascha during the Kneeling Vespers of Pentecost.

Join us for the celebration:

Ethnic Foods: We invite you to bring in an ethnic food to share during our multi-cultural coffee hour. We hope to see foods from all different ethnicities that reflect the fact that our parish represents people from all different ancestral backgrounds. The food can be as simple or as elaborate as you would like. If not from your direct ancestral background, it can be one that is of interest to you or a friend's culture. If you will be bringing in a food/dish, please let Julianna Sokoluk know.

Wearing Green: Many times you will hear Pentecost being called "Green Sunday." So we hope you will wear green to help enhance the special celebration.

Bring Green Cuttings: If you can, please cut some greens from your property and bring then in with you on Sunday to help decorate the church; pieces approximately 24 inches would be good.

Divine Liturgy: Divine Liturgy begins 10AM with the Reading of the Hours at 9:30AM. Multi-linguistical responses will be sung by the choir and used by clergy as we celebrate the birthday of The Church. A procession to proclaim the great joy of Pentecost, where people are welcome to carry greens, will commence toward the closing of Liturgy.

Monday, May 28th is the Feast Day of the Holy Spirit. Divine Liturgy begins at 10 AM.

To learn more about Holy Pentecost and Holy Spirit Day please visit

http://orthochristian.com/ 62250.html

Sunday, April 29 Video Presentation - "Faces Among Icons"

This Sunday April 29 after the Divine Liturgy Archangel Kino will present the video "Faces Among Icons." For some more information about the video, click on the link below. The video will be shown in our church after Divine Liturgy.

https://www.svots.edu/sites/ default/files/pdf/faces_among_ icons_flyer.pdf

Bright Saturday Paschal Divine Liturgy

Bishop John will lead a Paschal Divine Liturgy that will be concelebrated by all of the clergy of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA.
A complimentary festive luncheon in our Church hall will be served by the Women's Fellowship, sponsored by the churches in our Atlantic Deanery.

For photos from the event, please visit https://www.saintmichaelsroc.org/photos.html .

Parking for Pascha/Easter 2018

Joining us for servcies this Holy Week? Parking accommodations have been granted by Philadelphia Parking Authority for Easter 2018.
The hours, days and areas that are covered are as follows:

Friday, April 6th 6 PM - 10PM
Saturday Night, April 7 into Sunday Morning, April 8th 10 PM - 5 AM
Monday, April 9th 9 AM - 2 PM

Following is the list of streets that have been approved for Easter parking accommodations:
- 300-400 Brown St. Both Sides (400 Brown Loading zone will be enforced accordingly)
- 400 Fairmount Ave. Both Sides (300 Fairmount is RPP = Resident Parking Permit and will be enforced accordingly)
- 300-400 Callowhill St. North Side, (South Side is running lane and will be enforced accordingly)
- 300-400 Spring Garden St. North Side
- 400-500 & 700 N. 4th St.- Callowhill St. to Green St. and Fairmount Ave. to Brown St (Green to Fairmount has RPP and will be enforced accordingly)
- 400-500 N. 3rd St. Callowhill St. to Green St. (Green St. to Brown St. has RPP and will be enforced accordingly)

Street Parking: It will be necessary to display conspicuously a church placard prominently on the dashboard of the vehicle to show that you are attending services at St. Michael church. Further warning, that all other parking restrictions (parking too close to the corner; parking in front of a hydrant; etc.) will take precedence over any accommodations granted and will be strictly enforced by both the Authority and by the Police Department. RPP = Residential Permit Parking

Handicap Parking: There are no accommodations for handicap parking on Friday, Saturday/Sunday, and Monday. If you park in those spots you will likely be ticketed.

Church Parking Lots: :We ask you to move as close to other cars as possible to leave room for others and you must display a church placard on the dashboard with your name on it or church ID #.

Parishioners and visitors alike, need a church placard? Please see office or candle desk for assistance.

2018 Lenten Services Schedule Through St. Thomas Sunday

2018 Service Schedule: Great Lent, Holy Week through Bright Week

April 1 - Palm Sunday

• 9:30 AM Blessing of Pussy Willows

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy, Procession by children, followed by Fish Luncheon

April 2 – Holy Monday

• 6:30 PM Presanctified Liturgy followed by Lenten pot-luck dinner

April 3 – Holy Tuesday

• 10:00 AM Bridegroom Matins

April 4 – Holy Wednesday Holy Unction

• 6:30 PM - Please Bring olive oil to be blessed

April 5 – Holy Thursday

• 10:00 AM Vesperal Liturgy

• 6:30 PM Reading of the Twelve Gospels

April 6 - Holy Friday

• 2:00 PM Vespers

• 7:00 PM Matins, Winding sheet, Funeral of Christ

April 7 – Holy Saturday, Feast of the Annunciation

• 8:30AM through 2PM Grave Vigil – Reading of the Acts of the Apostles

• 10:00 AM Vespers and Divine Liturgy

April 7 – Holy Saturday into April 8 – PASCHA/EASTER Sunday

• 11:15 PM Nocturn

• 11:45 PM Procession, Matins & Divine Liturgy, followed by blessing baskets

• Sharing of blessed foods for those who want to stay and share breakfast. Coffee provided. You are welcome to place-set your own table or sit and eat at the already set-up basket-tables following the blessing.

April 8 – CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED, HE IS RISEN!

April 9 – Bright Monday

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy, Procession followed by coffee hour & Egg-cellent kids’ activity

April 14 – Bright Saturday

• 10:00 AM Paschal Divine Liturgy with Bishop John and clergy of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA. Luncheon in our Church hall will follow.

April 15 – St. Thomas Sunday

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy followed by blessing of graves at Oakland Cemetery

Palm Sunday (April 1) Seafood Luncheon Coffee Hour

Please join us for the Women's Fellowship Annual fundraiser.

Appetizers, Salads, Potatoes, Spring Vegetables, Bread, Shrimp Pasta Salad, Seafood Salad, Fish, and Lenten Cakes, Coffee, Tea, BYOB!

Reservations are NOT required.A suggested donation of $8 per luncheon plate and $3 for just cake and coffee would be appreciated.

If you would like to also bring something to the lunch, please e-mail or call Suzanne Veres.

If you can't stay for dinner consider taking platters to go! We hope you will be able to enjoy our seafood luncheon with us, but if you are unable to attend, a donation to the Women's Fellowship to support this annual fundraiser would be appreciated.

"How many tears will I swallow?": The Election of St. Tikhon as Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia and the Council of 1917-18

A free, open to all, multimedia presentation by Alexander Pavuk, Ph.D. on March 25, 2018 at 12:30 pm in our church hall.
Professor Pavuk will discuss the significance of the All-Russian Church Council that was convened one hundred years ago and the historic action of the Council to restore the Patriarchate and to elect then Metropolitan Tikhon as the first Patriarch of Moscow and All-Russia since that office had been abolished by Peter I. The work accomplished by Patriarch Tikhon against all odds during the early years of the Bolshevik Revolution and ensuing violent repression of the Church will be discussed, as well as his 1989 glorification and the 1992 finding of the relics of St. Tikhon that remained hidden in the Donskoy Monastery after his 1925 martyrdom.

Professor Pavuk is Assistant Professor of History at Morgan State University.

All are welcome to attend this Lenten event immediately following the Divine Liturgy on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, March 25.

UPDATE: Visit our Facebook page the week of March 25 to view a video with most of the presentation. We have also posted some photos on our website - https://www.saintmichaelsroc.org/photos.html

Saturday, March 24 - Vespers and Presentation of St. Matthew Passion

Vespers at 4:30PM followed by a presentation of St. Matthhew Passion.

We will present a multimedia presentation of the St. Matthew Passion composed by our Metropolitan Hilarion Alfeyev. A complete reading (in English) of the Passion Gospel according to St. Matthew will be musically accompanied by symphony orchestra, chorus, and soloists in an Orthodox reading of the well-known J.S. Bach Passion.

This is a wonderful precursor to Holy Week, during which we will hear the full reading of the Twelve Gospels of the Passion on Holy Thursday. You are encouraged to take advantage of this spiritual experience and to bring family and friends.

Update on Services - Week of March 18

Due to the forecasted snow, the Presanctified Gifts Liturgy scheduled for Wednesday March 21 is postponed and will be served on Friday, March 23 at 6:30pm.
The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete scheduled to be chanted on Thursday March 22 is cancelled. The Canon will be chanted prior to the Presanctified Liturgy on Friday.
Confessions will be heard before and after the services on Friday. Please contact Fr. Greg if you would like to schedule your confession.

2018 Lenten Appeal

2018 Lenten/Spring Appeal

Haitian Relief Fund

Eight years ago, on January 12, 2010, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake devastated Haiti, resulting in over 220,000 fatalities and displacing hundreds of thousands more. The 2018 report of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that 1.9 million Haitians are still in need of aid.

St. Michael the Archangel Church believes that being involved in the community and charitable works are central to the life of a Christian community. Each year we identify and work on several activities including a Lenten (Spring) charity collection to advance our mission. This year we are supporting the Orthodox community in Haiti.

Our church is working directly with St. Vladimir Russian Orthodox Church in Miami, Florida to provide assistance and financial support. Direct financial support is recognized as one of the most effective forms of assistance and is widely recommended by international donors and NGO relief agencies. 100% of the money raised goes directly and securely to recipients.

First priority is given to families without shelter, and to those with infants and small children. Your donation is greatly needed and appreciated. All contributions are welcome and no donation is too small.

The campaign runs from February 19 through April 8. Donations can be made in person via check or cash in our church office. Please list Haitian Appeal in subject line or with donation. At the end of the campaign, we will compile all donations and send to St. Vladimir Church. Online donations can be made directly at http://www.saintvladimirmiami.com/donations . Please note that this website is in Russian and English and a translate button may pop up when you click the link.

UPDATE: Thank you to all those who made a donation. With your generous support, we sent $1,330 to support the church.

Sunday School Charity Collection

The Sunday School Youth are sponsoring in loving memory of +Miss Tina Monteiro, Sunday School Teacher the 2nd Annual Charity Collection to benefit the the Saved Me Adoption Center at 860 N. 3rd Street in our neighborhood.
Participation by the entire parish is greatly appreciated!
Donations are joyfully accepted now until March 18th Drop off in the church hall.
Items needed for tender, loving care are as follows:
· Laundry Detergent   Peanut Butter
· Bleach Towels
· Blankets (no pillowcases)   Cat Litter
· Food & Water Bowls   Printer Paper
· Collars   Leashes
· Dog & Cat Toys   Dog & Cat Treats
· Litter Trays Crates & Carriers

Monetary donations are gladly accepted & will go towards helping to sponsor healthy, safe and comfortable living spaces, medical costs, etc. Thank you for your support.
Please contact Mr. Ken or Ms. Nadine with any questions.

2018 Lenten Mission Service Schedule

Services begin at 4 PM. All are welcome.

February 25 St. Stephen Cathedral, 8598 Verree Road, Philadelphia, PA 19115, www.ststephenscathedral.org
March 4 St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 8210 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082, www.saintgeorgeupperdarby.org
March 11 St. Vladimir Orthodox Church, 812 Grand Street, Trenton, NJ 08610, http://saintvladimir.org
March 18 St. Mary Church, 2412 West Third Street, Chester, PA 19013
March 25 Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church, 2101 South 28th Street (28th & Snyder) Philadelphia, PA 19145, www.holyassumptionphilly.org

Becoming Truly Human Screening and Discussion February 11

Join us during coffee hour (12 noon) for a screening of Becoming Truly Human, a documentary that looks at the rise of the “Nones” (those who check “none of the above” on religion surveys). Multiple research groups report that this group has risen from roughly 6% of the U.S. population in the 1990s to 25% as of 2015. To date, little research exists on this growing demographic.

The movie visits the lives of several non religiously affiliated young people in a laid back manner, lets them talk among themselves and explore the reasons why they have become disillusioned with religion. The movie then leads into the conversion of one of these “nones” to Orthodoxy through an intense journey of searching and questioning.

(Website for the movie)
https://www.becomingtrulyhuman.com

49ers Club February Get Together

Tuesday, February 27th @ 11:30AM, the 49ers Social Senior Club will enjoy food & fellowship. Share the love by "wearing your heart on your sleeve" along with red/pink/white! Julianna Sokoluk is available for details.

2017 St. Tatiana Scholarship

St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church St. Tatiana Scholarship 2017 Awarded

On behalf of St. Michael’s Church and Church Council, we are pleased to announce the awardees for the St. Tatiana Scholarship:

Alexandra Monteiro
Sophia Monteiro

We will be recognizing them both at an upcoming church event that is good for them and their family. The St. Tatiana Scholarship is awarded to an Orthodox graduating high school senior in good standing, who is an active, consistent participant of our St. Michael Sunday School faith education program and the parish. Applicants must be accredited college or trade-school bound. Applications are available at the Sunday School and the application can be directed to Mr. Ken Koscinski.

2018 Holy Days on Weekdays

Divine Liturgy at 10AM
January 19 Friday Theophany
February 15 Thursday Meeting of Our Lord
April 5 Thursday Great Thursday (Vesper Liturgy)
April 9 Monday Bright Monday
May 17 Thursday Ascension
May 28 Monday Holy Spirit Day
July 12 Thursday St. Peter and St. Paul Day
August 28 Tuesday Dormition
September 11 Tuesday Beheading
September 21 Friday Nativity of the Theotokos
September 27 Thursday Elevation of the Holy Cross
November 21 Wednesday Patronal Feastday Synaxis of St. Michael
December 4 Tuesday Entry into the Temple
December 19 Wednesday St. Nicholas Day

Orthodox Calendar App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/orthodox-calendar/id381641703?mt=8

Orthodox Calendar for Laptop http://www.holytrinityorthodox.com/calendar/index.htm

2018 Christmas Celebration

Join us in celebrating Orthodox Christmas. We encourage you to invite family and friends to join us for services as well as the singing of traditional Russian Christmas carols along with well known favorite carols this year. All are welcome.

Our schedule:
Christmas Eve Holy Supper, January 6 at 5:30 PM followed by Christmas Eve Service at 7:00 PM
Christmas Day Divine Liturgy, January 7 at 10:00 AM
Children’s Christmas Play & Community Caroling at 11:30 AM

Mt. Athos Pilgrimage Presentation on December 31

Presentation on Pilgrimage to Mt. Athos will be held during coffee hour. Subdeacon Peter Winsky will narrate a slide show illustrating the pilgrimage he was blessed to take this fall to the Holy Mountain and answer questions about the monasteries there. Please plan to attend

Update:

The presentation made by Subdeacon Peter this past Sunday, December 31, was well attended and engendered a lively discussion and elicited a number of good questions about the Holy Mountain.

If you were not in attendance, or if you were and would like more information about the monasteries, churches, icons, relics, or monks of Mt. Athos, here is a link to the page on the website of Our Lady Rescuer of the Perishing relating the first day of the pilgrimage. A diary entry for each of the six following days can be found from this page, and a host of photographs are linked as well.

http://www.hvmla.org/en/53-special-news.html#mainmenuor click here (the page lists the days with the final day of the pilgrimage first - scroll down to find day 1 of the pilgrimage)

Christmas Eve Dinner and Service on January 6

Christmas Eve Meal and Service on January 6 : Nativity Parish Holy Supper Meal is a fasting (lenten) meal at 5:30 PM in the church hall. Please rsvp with number of attendees & if you are bringing a lenten dish to share (not required) to office@saintmichaelsroc.org by January 1. All are welcome. Matins and Compline will be at 7:00 PM. Thank you.

Nativity of Christ Collection to Support Philabundance

Once again we are collecting food for Philabundance. Philabundance relies on food drives to bring in much needed non-perishable items that they rarely receive from other donation sources. The items you donate will be sent to over 350 agencies and direct service within our region. These agencies include shelters, food pantries and after-school feeding programs. The people who rely on these programs are often struggling to feed a family with children.

Donated food should be in boxes, cans, or plastic bottles and do not require refrigeration. Bread and baked goods are not ideal because of their short shelf life. High priority items requested include: canned fish or meats, canned stew/chili, 100% juice, breakfast cereals, oatmeal and peanut butter.

All items should be recently purchased and in good condition.

The deadline is Sunday, January 28th, 2018.

St. Nicholas Events

Join us this Sunday and Tuesday to celebrate St. Nicholas.

Sunday, December 17 - Special Activity for Children: All children are encouraged to leave their shoes outside the sanctuary doors. We hope that they will find a special surprise in them after Divine Liturgy. Festive socks can be worn. To learn more about St. Nicholas, go to https://oca.org/saints/lives/2016/12/06/103484-st-nicholas-the-wonderworker-and-archbishop-of-myra-in-lycia .

Tuesday, December 19 - Feast Day of St. Nicholas: Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10 AM.

Be Part of the 2018 Christmas Card

Spread the Christmas spirit and sign on to St. Michael's Annual Christmas card. The card is printed and handed out on January 7th. We also mail to our extended family and friends. The cost is $15 per listing. Deadline to be included is Sunday. December 31st. To sign up, please contact Debbie Barth or Barbara Saverino.

Feast of Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple on December 4

Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10 AM.

St. Innocent Orthodox Reading Society

St. Innocent Orthodox Reading Society will meet for an ongoing discussion of the Divine Liturgy using the book: Orthodox Christianity Volume IV (pp.117-146) on Saturday December 2 at 4pm (just prior to Vespers at 5:30 pm). All are invited.

Archangel Kino

Archangel Kino: A presentation of the very new documentary: Becoming Truly Human will be made on Friday evening December 1 at 7pm. This movie presents the issue of the "Nones" the young people who answer poll questions about their religious affiliation as "none." Here is the trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEmBnju-518&feature=youtu.be

Everyone who cares about the future of Orthodoxy in America is urged to attend. A group discussion will follow the film

Vespers

Vespers will be celebrated at 5:30 PM on Saturdays during Advent starting December 2nd.

Thanksgiving Moleben

A moleben will be celebrated on Thanksgiving, Thursday November 23 at 9 AM. Join us and give thanks to the Lord for all of our blessings.

St. Michael Feast Day - Tuesday, November 21

Our church's patronal feast day will be celebrated with a Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, November 21 at 10 AM. All are welcome to join us and pray on the day devoted to our Church's patron saint.

Celebration of Father Vincent's 41 Years of Dedication to Our Church

Join us for a celebration of Father Vincent's 41 years of dedication to our church and the community as well as his transition to Pastor Emeritus.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12th, 2017

Greeting of Bishop John 9:30 AM

Hierarchal Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM

Luncheon Celebration 1:30 PM

All are welcome to attend the Hierarchal Divine Liturgy. Luncheon celebration is at capacity. Please see Barbara Saverino.

Thank you

St. Innocent Orthodox Reading Society this Friday, November 10

Everyone is invited to attend the discussion meeting, even if you have not done the readings. You will be amazed to find out a lot more about the Divine Liturgy that you have attended for years.

We are currently reading Met. Hilarion's newest book, Orthodox Christianity Volume IV. We will concentrate on the Divine Liturgy spanning pages 101-211. For the second meeting (Friday, November 10), try to read from pages 101 through 129 if possible.

Pokrov (Protection of the Virgin) Feastday

Divine Liturgy will be held this Saturday, October 14 at 9 AM.

October Meeting Information for 49ers Senior Social Club

49ers Senior Social Club October meeting will be on Tuesday, October 17th at 11:30 AM in our church hall to enjoy food, fellowship and fun. Halloween Happiness: Dress in costume or at least wear a hat or festive t-shirt. Can't wait to share the fun and creativity. All are warmly welcomed. Bring your friends - treat to lunch & enjoy the tricks! Please contact Julianna Sokoluk for more information.

Annual Russian Festival Next Weekend: October 6-8

Join us next weekend for our annual festival. This is our 41st year and we look forward to seeing friends new and old. This year we are celebrating national pierogi day by adding three new flavors (capusta, cherry and chocolate) to our traditional potato offering. In addition to traditional ethnic food, we have home-made baked goods, collectibles, religious articles and imported goods, hand-made crafts, folk music and dancing as well as fun activities for all ages. Visit our Facebook page for updates.

Friday, October 6 11 am - 4 pm

Saturday, October 7 11 am - 7 pm

Sunday, October 8 Noon - 4 pm

Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Join us and celebrate the Elevation of the Holy Cross with Divine Liturgy on Wednesday, September 27th at 10 AM.

Amazon Smile, a New Way to Support Our Church

Want to put your online shopping to a good cause? If you shop online with Amazon, please visit the AmazonSmile section of the website and select St. Michaels's Russian Orthodox Christian Church in Philadelphia, PA as your charitable organization to receive donations. After you select our church, Amazon donates 0.5% of eligible purchases. Thank you.

Blessing of Students and Divine Liturgy Fall/Winer Schedule Begins with Service at 10 AM

This Sunday, September 10th at the end of Divine Liturgy there will be a special blessing for all students for the new school year. Please make every effort to have all students attend Divine Liturgy.

Note: Divine Liturgy will be at 10 AM.

Feast Day of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist, September 11

This Monday, September 11th is the feast day of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist and is a day of strict fast. This day is also Patriot Day and we will offer prayers for the victims of 9/11 during Divine Liturgy. Services will be held at 10 AM upstairs in the church.

Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord on Saturday August 19

Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ will be served at 10am on Saturday August 19, 2017.

Following the veneration of the Cross, fruit baskets will be blessed in the courtyard of our Church.

Please make every effort to come and bring your basket for this glorious holy day and the traditional blessing of the fruits of the earth that God has so richly given us.

Services in August to Honor the Virgin Mary

Orthodox Philadelphia will honor the Virgin Mary with special services on the Sundays in August. August 20th at Saint Nicholas Serbian church in Elkins Park (concelebrated by their bishop). August 27th.at Saints Peter and Paul church, Wilmington. All of the services will begin at 4 p. M.

Summer Picnic

Thanks to the Kunasz and Williams families for donating and making most of the food for our recent church picnic as well as the Soklouk and Koscinski family for decorating and proving all of the kid-friendly activities. We appreciate everyone who helped with cooking, serving and cleaning up…and of course everyone who attended. Because of all of you, the day was enjoyable. Thank you

Celebrate the End of Saints Peter and Paul Fast on July 12

Divine Liturgy will be served at 10 AM on July 12 to celebrate the end of the fast.

Summer Picnic on July 23

Attend our summer picnic on Sunday, July 23rd after Divine Liturgy. Enjoy games and food off the grill as well as salads and sides in our courtyard and/or in our air-conditioned hall. Food generously donated by the Kunasz and Williams families. Desserts and beverages provided by Parish Council members. Reservations appreciated via email at office@saintmichaelsroc.org . Thank you.

Summer Hours

Summer hours begin this Sunday, June 11. This means that Divine Liturgy will start at 9:30 AM. Once the weather gets warmer, we will move our summer services downstairs to the air-conditioned Church Hall. Summer hours will end the Sunday after Labor Day on September 10. Thank you.

Join Us for Pentecost on Sunday, June 4

The Feast of Holy Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. It also celebrates the establishment of the Church through the preaching of the Apostles and the baptism of the thousands who on that day believed in the Gospel message of salvation through Jesus Christ. The Feast is also seen as the culmination of the revelation of the Holy Trinity.

ETHNIC FOODS

We invite you to bring in an ethnic food to share during coffee hour. We hope to see foods from all different ethnicities that reflect the fact that our parish represents people from all different ancestral backgrounds. If you will be bringing in a food/dish, please let Barbara Saverino know.

WEARING GREEN

Many times you will hear Pentecost being called "Green Sunday." So we hope you will wear green to help enhance the special celebration.

Blessing of Graves on St. Thomas Sunday, April 23

Following Diving Liturgy, Father Vincent and Father Gregory will be at Oakland Cemetery to bless graves. Please note that other times and cemeteries may be arranged by contacting the priests. If there in inclement weather, an update will be shared.

We are Live Streaming Easter Service on Facebook

Unable to attend service? We have started to live video stream our Holy Week services on Facebook. Go to our Facebook page to join us remotely.

49ers Senior Social Club

The 49ers Senior Social Club will be meeting on Tuesday, April 18th at 11:30 AM in our church hall to enjoy food and fellowship. Special guest speaker will be appearing for presentation and one-on-one consultation will be available. For fun: "April showers, brings May Flowers"...wear your favorite rain gear or floral attire. All are welcome. Please contact Julianna Sokoluk for details.

Palm Sunday Fish Dinner

Thank you to all who attended, supported and volunteered at last Sunday's dinner. This event is the Women's Fellowship Annual fundraiser.

Lenten Mission Update

Thank you to all who have supported and donated to our 2017 Lenten Mission. The Bethesda Project is a local nonprofit that serves the homeless in Philadelphia. Under the leadership of our champion, Gail Shast, we have eight boxes of supplies that will be delivered after Easter.

Illuminate Pascha

We will once again be selling luminaries, which we will light around the church on Holy Saturday night. The candles are to burn for 4-5 hours.

You can buy a luminary "For the health of" or "For the memory of" your loved ones.

Luminaries are $5 each or 6 for $25. If an indoor procession is required due to weather, we will make arrangements to light these luminaries on another occasion in the coming weeks. To purchase your luminaries please see Emily Stine on a Sunday on or before April 9^th.

2017 Lenten Mission Services

As we journey through Great Lent, the Greater Philadelphia Orthodox Clergy Brotherhood is presenting the following mission services throughout the region. All servcies start at 4 PM.

Sunday of Orthodox, March 5 at Saints Peter and Paul, 1406 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE
Sunday of Saint Gregory of Palamas, March 12 at St. Michael's in Philadelphia (Our church)
Sunday of the Adoration of the Cross, March 19 at Saints Peter and Paul, 9230 Old Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Sunday of John the Ladder, March 26 at St. Mark, 452 Durham Road, Wrightstown, PA
Sunday of Saint Mary of Egypt, April 2 at St. Herman of Alaska - Gradyville, 1855 Middletown Road, Glen Mills, PA

2018 Lenten Services Schedule Through St. Thomas Sunday

2018 Service Schedule: Great Lent, Holy Week through Bright Week

April 1 - Palm Sunday

• 9:30 AM Blessing of Pussy Willows

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy, Procession by children, followed by Fish Luncheon

April 2 – Holy Monday

• 6:30 PM Presanctified Liturgy followed by Lenten pot-luck dinner

April 3 – Holy Tuesday

• 10:00 AM Bridegroom Matins

April 4 – Holy Wednesday Holy Unction

• 6:30 PM - Please Bring olive oil to be blessed

April 5 – Holy Thursday

• 10:00 AM Vesperal Liturgy

• 6:30 PM Reading of the Twelve Gospels

April 6 - Holy Friday

• 2:00 PM Vespers

• 7:00 PM Matins, Winding sheet, Funeral of Christ

April 7 – Holy Saturday, Feast of the Annunciation

• 8:30AM through 2PM Grave Vigil – Reading of the Acts of the Apostles

• 10:00 AM Vespers and Divine Liturgy

April 7 – Holy Saturday into April 8 – PASCHA/EASTER Sunday

• 11:15 PM Nocturn

• 11:45 PM Procession, Matins & Divine Liturgy, followed by blessing baskets

• Sharing of blessed foods for those who want to stay and share breakfast. Coffee provided. You are welcome to place-set your own table or sit and eat at the already set-up basket-tables following the blessing.

April 8 – CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED, HE IS RISEN!

April 9 – Bright Monday

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy, Procession followed by coffee hour & Egg-cellent kids’ activity

April 14 – Bright Saturday

• 10:00 AM Paschal Divine Liturgy with Bishop John and clergy of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA. Luncheon in our Church hall will follow.

April 15 – St. Thomas Sunday

• 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy followed by blessing of graves at Oakland Cemetery

East, West, East: A Personal Spiritual Journey with Khouria Frederica Mathewes-Green on June 16

Join us as the Women’s Fellowship of St. Michael welcomes all for a discussion by the renowned Orthodox Christian Author Khouria Frederica Mathewes-Greeno on her personal road to Orthodoxy.

East, West, East: A Personal Spiritual Journey
Or How I became a Christian when I was a Hindu hippie: A story much like St. Paul on the road to Emmaus
Saturday June 16, 2018
12 Noon

A Free light lunch will follow a question and answer session. Several of Khouria Frederica’s books will be available for purchase or bring your own copy of one of her books to be autographed following lunch.
Call or email Matushka Anna (Dianne) Winsky by June 14th with the number in your group or with questions.

2021 Christmas Service Schedule

Nativity

Join us and celebrate the birth of Christ. You can participate online (Facebook streaming) as well as in-person while following the COVID-19 safety precautions and contacting the office to make a reservation.

Wednesday, January 6^th Eve of Nativity of Christ , Vigil (Great Compline followed by Matins) 7PM
Thursday, January 7^th Great Feast of Nativity of Christ, 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours, prior
Saturday, January 9^th Vespers 6PM
Sunday, January 10^th 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours, prior
Wednesday, January 13^th Vespers 6PM,
Thursday, January 14^th Feast of Circumcision of Christ, St. Basil, 10AM Divine Liturgy, Reading of Hours, prior

Greetings For the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to the Clergy, Monastics and Laity of the Diocese of Sourozh and the Patriarchal Parishes of the USA & Canada

Dear Fathers, brothers and sisters!

The time for spiritual celebration has approached - the Church invites us to enter the Holy Days, beginning with the feast of the Nativity of Christ and concluding with the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord. The sacred events of the Gospel narrative remembered by the Church unite us with a common joy of the coming into the world of Christ the Savior and a common hope for deliverance of mankind from sin and eternal death.

This past year has become for all of us a year of unexpected trials, including stressful concerns regarding the health of our relatives, friends and acquaintances, restrictions in the celebration of divine services, and the inability to share the joy of common prayer, and much, much more.

I sincerely thank the clergy and parishioners of the Diocese of Sourozh, the Patriarchal parishes in the USA, Canada and Mexico for their selfless fulfillment of their assigned obedience’s, for their responsible and careful approach to the observance of all the instructions prescribed by His Holiness, the Patriarch, and the demonstration of civic consciousness with the implementation of the decisions of the local authorities. This was an example of Christian love for one's neighbor. By deed and word, support was provided to those who required special attention and care.

I pray with you that the coming New Year will be marked by the long-awaited deliverance from the destructive epidemic and filled with peace and prosperity. I believe that the All-Merciful Lord, who has manifested His goodness to the human race many times and in many ways, will visit all those who have faith in Him and renew our spiritual and physical strength.

I wholeheartedly congratulate all of you, dear Fathers, brothers and sisters, with the birth of our Lord and Savior and prayerfully wish all of you good health and spiritual joy and call your attention to the words of the Apostle Paul: “Work hard and do not be lazy. Serve the Lord with a heart full of devotion. Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times” (Rom. 12: 11-12).

I invoke the blessing of God on all of you.

With love in our newborn Christ,

+Matthew

Bishop of Sourozh

Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes

in the USA & Canada