Archbishop Mark Presides Over Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers, Holy Trinity Church, Wilkes-Barre, PA

WILKES-BARRE, PA [DOEPA]

On Sunday, March 9, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Mark presided over the Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers of the Wilkes-Barre Deanery, hosted by Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Following his Archpastoral visit to All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, His Eminence traveled to Wilkes-Barre, PA, where he was greeted by Archpriest Innocent Neal, Dean of the Wilkes-Barre Deanery and Rector of Holy Trinity Church, along with members of the parish. Before the service, Archbishop Mark had a discussion with Father Innocent about various topics concerning the diocese and abroad at the rector's residence.

Vespers was served by Father Innocent. Serving with him was Archpriest George Alberts (Antiochian Archdiocese), Archpriest Michael Demko, Archpriest Jason Franchak, Priest Michael Shepherd, Priest Paul Witek, Priest Nathan Clausson, Priest Kirill Zawatski, Priest William Rusk, and Protodeacon Sergei Kapral. His Eminence presided from the throne. The choir was led under the direction of Mr. Daniel Brisk.

Priest Michael Shepherd offered the homily.

Following the Aposticha, a procession was made by the serving clergy, bearing Holy Icons. The Relics of Saint Alexis Toth of Wilkes-Barre, Confessor and Defender of Orthodoxy in America, were also carried. The clergy and faithful recited the Nicene Creed in unison, affirming their faith. The Synodikon of Orthodoxy was proclaimed, honoring the holy tradition and declaring the triumph of the Orthodox Church over heresies. Father Paul Witek intoned the Great Prokeimenon.

After the Dismissal, His Eminence offered words of gratitude to Father Innocent and the faithful present. He explained that the true meaning of the "Triumph of Orthodoxy" is not a prideful victory but victory over heresy and that the ultimate victory is found in Christ's Resurrection.

Following the Veneration of the Cross, a Lenten Meal was served in the church hall, offering fellowship for those in the Wilkes-Barre Deanery and beyond.

Glory to God for all things!