Archbishop Mark Makes Archpastoral Visit to Holy Ascension Church, Frackville, PA, on the Sunday of the Cross

FRACKVILLE, PA [DOEPA]

From March 22-23, 2025, the third Sunday of Great Lent, the Sunday of the Cross, His Eminence Archbishop Mark made an archpastoral visit to Holy Ascension Church in Frackville, PA, presiding over the services and interacting with the community present.

On Saturday, March 22, upon arrival to the temple, His Eminence was greeted by Priest Kirill Zawatski, Acting Rector, and several members of the parish. Great Vespers was served by Father Kirill, and Archbishop Mark presided from the throne.

During Great Vespers, the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord was brought out in procession.

Following the Dismissal, Archbishop Mark expressed gratitude and appreciation towards Father Kirill and the faithful present. Father Kirill welcomed His Eminence and thanked him for being present. The faithful venerated the Holy Cross and were annointed with Oil.

On Sunday, March 23, the faithful of St. Mary's Church in St. Clair, PA, joined the faithful of Holy Ascension Church to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. His Eminence Archbishop Mark presided over the Divine Liturgy. Serving with His Eminence were Father Kirill Zawatski and Deacon Gregory Polk, attached to Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA. The combined choir was led under the direction of Mrs. Erica Maher.

Prior to the Divine Liturgy, Nicholas Maher was tonsured a reader. May God grant him many years!

At the Little Entrance, His Eminence Archbishop Mark awarded Father Kirill the right to wear the Nabedrennik in recognition of his dedicated service. Axios!

His Eminence offered the homily and focused on the dangers of following our own desires rather than God’s will, urging the faithful to resist the temptation to do things "my way." He encouraged everyone to reflect on their personal struggles and to surrender their will to God’s greater plan, especially during this season of repentance and spiritual renewal. He reminded the faithful that, just as Christ bore the cross for the salvation of all, we too must take up our own crosses in humility and obedience to God's will.

During the Divine Liturgy, many of the faithful received the Holy Mysteries.

"Before Thy Cross..." was sung by the clergy and faithful and the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord was venerated.

Following the dismissal, Archbishop Mark offered words of encouragement to Father Kirill, Pani Olivia, the faithful of Holy Ascension Church, and the entire community present. He mentioned how pleased he is to see a full church and growth within the Coal Region.

After the veneration of the Cross, a Lenten meal was prepared and served downstairs in the church hall, where the faithful gathered for a time of fellowship. This provided an opportunity for parishioners to be with His Eminence and have time with their fellow Orthodox Christians.

Glory to God for all things!