BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS]

On Friday, February 28, 2025, with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Mark, the St. Nikolai of Zhicha Fund, a General Fund for the Diocese, was launched. This fund is dedicated to supporting the Diocese’s mission and future growth.

The establishment of this fund comes at a pivotal time, as Great Lent calls the faithful to deepen their commitment to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Through this fund, individuals can support the Diocese online, embracing the spirit of generosity and stewardship during this sacred season.

Named after the Patron Saint of our Diocese, Saint Nikolai of Zhicha, and the Patron of the Chapel in the Chancery in Bath, PA, the St. Nikolai of Zhicha Fund plays a vital role in supporting the charitable, educational, and administrative activities of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania. Saint Nikolai, also known as the "Serbian Chrysostom," was a renowned theologian, spiritual guide, and missionary who dedicated his life to serving the Orthodox Church. After extensive academic studies in Europe, including at Oxford and the University of Berne, he was ordained a priest and later consecrated as a bishop, leading the Church through turbulent times, including World War I and World War II. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to monastic renewal and education left a lasting impact on the Orthodox Church.

Saint Nikolai’s time in the United States further solidified his legacy. He spent years as a missionary bishop, lecturing across the country and raising funds for orphanages and spiritual revival efforts. In 1951, he settled at Saint Tikhon’s Monastery in South Canaan, PA, where he served as Rector and Dean of the seminary. His pastoral care and theological writings continue to inspire Orthodox Christians worldwide. Saint Nikolai’s humility, love for his flock, and profound wisdom shaped many lives, and his influence is still felt at Saint Tikhon’s Seminary in South Canaan, PA. Through his efforts, the Seminary at Saint Tikhon’s grew into an important place of theological education and spiritual renewal.

Your contribution to the St. Nikolai of Zhicha Fund ensures the continuation of the mission in the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania. The fund supports the growth and development of Orthodox faith, education, and community outreach, helping to carry forward the teachings and spiritual guidance that Saint Nikolai imparted. Through this fund, we honor his memory, ensuring that the faithful are nurtured in the same spirit of compassion, wisdom, and service that characterized his life and work. Your support helps perpetuate his legacy of spiritual growth and outreach to future generations of the diocese.

O Holy Father Nikolai, pray unto God for us!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office