On the weekend of August 29-30, His Beatitude Metropolitan Jonah made his first archpastoral visit to Christ the Savior Orthodox Church. His Beatitude arrived on Saturday afternoon and spent over 1 1/2 hours speaking with members of the community on various subjects relating to Church life at the global, national, and local levels. Following Great Vespers, discussion ensued as Metropolitan Jonah, Fr. John, Fr. Christian, and members of the Parish Council shared a lenten meal at the home of George and Lois Hamaty.

On Sunday morning, His Beatitude led the community in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. Serving with Met. Jonah and Fr. John were Fr. Daniel Hubiak, the founding priest of the Mission, and Hierodeacon Philip (Majkrzak). During his homily Metropolitan Jonah spoke about the spiritual discipline of detachment, which allows us to focus our minds, hearts, and lives on the only thing that matters - our relationship to Jesus Christ. By the grace of God, this refocusing would bring about an authentic healing for ourselves, our families, and our entire community. At the conclusion of the service, Metropolitan Jonah offered a prayer and blessing for the teachers and students who are embarking on a new academic year. After some quick photos, everyone made their way to the Clarion Hotel for a festal brunch in celebration of the special weekend.

Sincere appreciation is expressed to His Beatitude Metropolitan Jonah, and his assistants, Hierodeacon Philip and Brother Gregory (Stevens) for undertaking the lengthy trip to be with us this weekend. We would also like to thank all those who joined us for the weekend's special events!