Archbishop Mark Celebrates Holy Pentecost at Holy Trinity Church, Stroudsburg, PA

STROUDSBURG, PA [DOEPA]

From June 7–8, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania celebrated the Feast of the Holy Trinity (Pentecost) at Holy Trinity Church in Stroudsburg, PA.

On Saturday, June 7, upon arrival at the temple, His Eminence was warmly greeted by Priest Vjekoslav Jovičić, Rector, along with several members of the parish community.

Great Vespers with Litiya was served by Father Vjekoslav, with Archbishop Mark presiding from the throne.

Following the service, His Eminence expressed his gratitude for the warm and heartfelt welcome extended by the faithful of the parish. Father Vjekoslav offered words of gratitude in return.

On Sunday, June 8, Archbishop Mark celebrated the Divine Liturgy, with Father Vjekoslav also serving. The choir was led under the direction of Matushka Masha Solak.

His Eminence offered the homily on the great feast of Pentecost, reflecting on the profound transformation brought about by the coming of the Holy Spirit. He emphasized that the law is no longer external, written on tablets of stone, but is now inscribed internally on our hearts. The Spirit descended upon the Apostles, sent by God the Father and fulfilling the promise of the Son, thereby revealing and manifesting the fullness of the Holy Trinity. The gift of the Holy Spirit was given to each of the Apostles, empowering them to begin their ministry to the world.

At the Divine Liturgy, many of the faithful present partook of the Holy Mysteries.

Following the Ambo Prayer, Father Vjekoslav intoned the Great Prokeimenon, and the Kneeling Prayers of Pentecost were read.

A procession around the church followed. The Gospel was read, and the faithful were blessed with Holy Water.

After the Dismissal, Archbishop Mark congratulated the parish on the occasion of their patronal feast day and offered an archpastoral word. Father Vjekoslav once again thanked His Eminence for his presence and kind words.

Following the Veneration of the Cross, a festive meal was prepared and served in the church hall, where the faithful gathered for a time of fellowship. This provided an opportunity for parishioners to speak with His Eminence and spend time with their fellow Orthodox Christians.

Glory to God for all things!