On Sunday, Sept 18th, Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Whitestone NY celebrated 95 years as a parish. His Grace, Bishop Michael, was greeted by the children of the parish; the procession of icons, flowers, rose petals, tolling bells and songs evoked an expectation not unlike Pascha. At the doors of the church, George Nitis (parish council president) greeted “Vladika” warmly and welcomed him to the parish.
 
In addition to the parish rector (Father Joseph Woodill), the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated by close friends of the parish: Archimandrite Christopher (Calin), Igumen Joseph (Hoffman), and Archdeacon Michael W. Suvak. The clergy and faithful raised their strong voices in tune with a trio (Jeff Morrison, Deacon Philip Halliwell and Benedict Sheehan, Director) from Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, South Canaan PA. The church was full for the Divine Liturgy and multiple chalices were necessary for the many communicants.

The Grand Banquet -- so carefully managed by Dorothy Tymus and others -- was a time for short speeches, happy dancing, and fine food.  Miron Timoshuk served as toastmaster. As parish historian, he reminded everyone of those who gave of their resources to build the church. He also contributed a written history which was published in the Anniversary Commemorative Book distributed to all present.

The future hope of the labor of all who had gone before was offered by Bishop Michael as he addressed the faithful: “Each one of you can bring one other person to Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church between now and the 100th Anniversary.” With these words, he encouraged all to be missionaries of the Gospel in the neighborhood of Whitestone NY.
 
Father Joseph Woodill, trying to add his one year as parish priest at Whitestone to the 95 years being celebrated, said: “This has been a year for me and Matushka Charlotte filled ONLY with kindness, generosity and love. This is a parish filled with the Lord’s grace. We are blessed to be here!”  The joy and fellowship of all who had gathered could be read on every face. Thanks be to God for such a glorious day!