On Sunday, 23 January, Bishop +Michael made his first archpastoral visit to Saint Martin's Chapel at West Point Military Academy. His Grace spoke on the Gospel reading for the day (Luke 18:35-43). He pointed out that as the Savior was traveling along a road, a blind man cried out, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!" His Grace said, "The blind man, unable to see Christ with his physical eyes, was able to discern Him with his spiritual eyes."

Addressing himself primarily to the cadets, Bishop +Michael said that they might find themselves in situations where the reality of ugliness, hatred, and even the prospect of death, would confront them. Then they might ask themselves: "Where is the God of beauty, love, and life?" They would not readily see Him with their physical eyes, but they would have to discern Him with their spiritual eyes. He assured them that the Lord will hear them in those times of confusion, and He will be with them in all of those difficult situations ... if they will just call out: "Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me."

Following the Divine Liturgy, His Grace joined Father Joseph Frawley, Matushka Irene, the cadets, officers, and visitors for a brunch in the historic Thayer Hotel. Bishop +Michael enjoyed meeting the cadets, and they enjoyed spending time with him. Hopefully, there shall be many more opportunities to greet Bishop +Michael at West Point Military Academy.