On “Saint Thomas Sunday,” 12 May, Bishop Michael visited Saint Nicholas Church in Whitestone NY. His Grace illustrated his sermon and punctuated important points on the true meaning of Pascha ~ the Risen Christ ~ by walking among those present and distributing eggs to the delighted children. He then joined the community after liturgy for a joyous and bountiful Saint Thomas Sunday Feast.

Serving with Bishop Michael were Father Joseph Woodill (parish rector), Father Seraphim Joa, Sub-deacon Nilus Klingel and Sub-deacon Michael Frank Guydan. Assisting them were altar servers Alan Nanu, John Sochran and Matthew Tymus.

His Grace joined the community after liturgy for a joyous and bountiful Saint Thomas Sunday Feast; he visited with the parishioners and guests, and joined in singing “Happy Birthday” and “Many Years” on the occasion of the 90th Birthday of Eugenia Skibitsky. Every parishioner was given all of the time they wished to speak to, and get to know, their Bishop. Despite having a plane to catch to Jerusalem, Bishop Michael was among the last to leave the celebration and offered blessings with words of encouragement for all.