HARRISBURG, PA [DOEPA]

From April 26–27, 2025, Antipascha (St. Thomas Sunday), His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania celebrated the patronal feast of Christ the Saviour Church in Harrisburg, PA. In addition to presiding over the festal services and offering archpastoral guidance to the faithful, Archbishop Mark also consecrated a newly cast set of bells, dedicated in memory of the parish’s beloved former pastor, the Mitred Archpriest Daniel Ressetar.

On Saturday, April 26, upon arriving at the temple, His Eminence was greeted by Archpriest Stephen Vernak, Rector, and several members of the parish. A memorial was served for Manny (Lazarus) Lopez on the first anniversary of his repose (April 18, 2024). Paschal Hours were then prayed, and the Artos was broken and distributed to the faithful. Great Vespers followed, served by Father Stephen with Deacon John Shingara, with Archbishop Mark presiding from the bishop’s throne.

Following the service, His Eminence expressed his gratitude for the warm and heartfelt welcome extended by the faithful of the parish. Father Stephen offered words of thanks in return, acknowledging His Eminence as the true "rector of the parish."

On Sunday, April 27, the faithful of Christ the Saviour Church once again welcomed Archbishop Mark for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. At the doors of the church, he was greeted with the traditional presentation of bread and salt by Parish Council President, Dr. David Pawlush.

Serving with His Eminence were Archpriest Stephen, the Mitred Archpriest Daniel Kovalak, and Archpriest John Onofrey, with Deacon John Shingara and servers of the parish. The choir was prayerfully led under the direction of Reader James Kushlan.

At the Divine Liturgy, many of the faithful received Christ’s Holy Mysteries.

Following the Ambo prayer, a festal procession was made around the church, with the faithful stopping at the bell tower. There, Archbishop Mark consecrated the newly installed bells through the anointing with the All-Holy Chrism.

This included one refurbished bell and two newly cast bells dedicated in memory of the ever-memorable Mitred Archpriest Daniel Ressetar.

The bells are named in honor of the Three Holy Hierarchs: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom, whose lives and teachings continue to guide the Orthodox Church. The bells were rung by Gregory Ressetar (Father Daniel's Son) and Dmitri Ressetar (Father Daniel's Grandson).

After the Dismissal, His Eminence gave an archpastoral word. Father Stephen thanked Archbishop Mark once again for being present for this joyful day. Young girls of the parish presented His Eminence with flowers to which he gave to Mrs. Samantha Lopez.

Following the veneration of the Cross, a luncheon was prepared in the church hall for the faithful and community present.

The clergy and faithful of Christ the Saviour give thanks to God for this grace-filled celebration and the ongoing archpastoral care of Archbishop Mark.

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office