Tuesday, June 29, 2010

His Grace, Bishop Michael, was surrounded by the faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church to celebrate the patronal feast-day of the parish. Special guests included: the Sisterhood of Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery, parishioners of Saint Innocent Mission, the priest of Saint John of Kronstadt Church in Utica NY, and parishioners residing at Valley Health Nursing Home. There were many others also making the day a wonderful celebration of the heavenly intercessors. In all, some 80 faithful gathered on a Tuesday morning to show their devotion to the Lord while welcoming Bishop Michael.

During the services, Demetrios Richards was ordained a subdeacon assigned to the parish where he will be serve the Church liturgically out of his piety, devotion and love. Mother Raphaela presented an icon of Saints Peter and Paul (written by Sister Susannah) to the parish in recognition of the long relationship the parish has had with the monastery. Special thanks goes to all of those who helped to make the day beautiful: those who beautified the grounds, those who prepared the meal afterwards, and all those who prayed together.