On Saturday, January 18, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop MICHAEL attended a Spanish liturgy at Christ the Saviour in Paramus, NJ. The liturgy was served by the rector Fr. John Morris and Fr John Parker of St. Tikhon’s Seminary concelebrated. Fr. John Parker preached a dynamic sermon in Spanish for the feast day of St. Athanasius and St. Cyril. If you would like to attend the next liturgy in Spanish, please check the parish calendar at www.christthesaviour.org or contact the diocesan Hispanic ministry at frjohnmorris3@gmail.com.

[Lansing, NY] - On the Saturday after Theophany, January 11, the faithful of Holy Apostles Mission in Lansing, NY, gathered with guests from nearby parishes to honor a cherished annual tradition: the Great Blessing of Water. Led by Father Joel Brady, the congregation braved the chilly shores of Cayuga Lake for this solemn and joyful occasion.

[Sea Cliff, NY] – On Sunday, January 12, 2025, the parishioners of Our Lady of Kazan Church processed from their church to Tappen Beach at Hempstead Harbor in Long Island Sound to celebrate the Great Blessing of Waters. This cherished ritual, which had been on hiatus for several years, was joyfully revived in the presence of the community.

The Acting Rector of the parish, Presbyter Paul Hunchak, emphasized the profound significance of water in his pre-service remarks. He reflected on the many ways water brings blessings, including its vital role in supporting life and aiding in the fight against the devastating wildfires currently impacting communities in the Los Angeles area.

The Diocese of New York and New Jersey is excited to announce the Level 1 Catechist Formation Course: Part A for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS), scheduled for June 9th-13th, 2025, at St. Tikhon’s Seminary. This transformative program offers a unique opportunity for adults to deepen their spiritual lives and enrich their ability to guide children in forming a profound relationship with God.

On the Sunday after the Theophany, the faithful of Mother of God Church in Princeton NJ blessed the brook's waters on their property. The area has been dedicated as a meditation/prayer space and a picnic area for people to enjoy and reflect on the words of the Psalmist: "O Lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all: The earth is full of Your riches." (Ps 104:24) The newly dedicated area was an Eagle Scout project of Nicholas Stivala, a member of Mother of God. After, the parish church school children enjoyed a pizza party.

Eugenia June Nehrebecki (née Yankovsky) ended her earthly sojourn on January 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and the prayers of the Church. Born on April 30, 1930, to the late Archpriest Elias and Euphrosinia Trembach Yankovsky in Portage, Pennsylvania, Eugenia was predeceased by her four older siblings, Vladimir, Olga, Luba, and Leo.

[Watervliet, NY] - St. Basil Orthodox Church, Watervliet, NY, celebrated its Parish Feast Day of St. Basil the Great  with His Eminence, Archbishop MICHAEL on January 1, 2025.  Serving with the parish rector, Archpriest Peter Olsen, was Priest Paul Fedoroff and parish deacon Jason Gagnon.  Subdeacons were Benjamin Goes and Andrew Karlgut.  A festive meal and fellowship was enjoyed by all in the parish hall.

The Orthodox mission of Saint Olga of Alaska in Plattsburgh, NY, continues to flourish, with an inspiring turnout at the Divine Liturgy on November 23, 2024. The community gathered in joy and fellowship, as seen in the vibrant group photo, which features faithful attendees of all ages — from babies in arms to seasoned parishioners. The spirit of unity and gratitude is palpable!  This growing mission demonstrates the vitality of Orthodoxy in the region and the dedication of its members to fostering a strong and welcoming community of faith.