MECHANICSBURG, PA [DOEPA]
From October 25-26, 2025, the Feast of Saint Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessaloniki and the 20th Sunday after Pentecost, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an Archpastoral Visit to Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, presiding over the services, spending time with the faithful and attending their annual Dinner Dance and Silent Auction.
On Saturday, October 25, His Eminence arrived at the temple with Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, Vice-Chancellor of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Dean of the Frackville Deanery, and Rector of Holy Apostles Church. Upon arrival, he was greeted by several members of the community. The Resurrectional Vigil was served for Saint Demetrius, with Archbishop Mark presiding from the throne.
On Sunday, October 26, His Eminence presided at the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Upon arrival, young girls from the parish presented Archbishop Mark with a bouquet of flowers. He was then greeted by Angela Thimis, Parish Council President, with the traditional bread and salt.
Concelebrating with His Eminence were Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, Archpriest John Parker, Dean of St. Tikhon’s Theological Seminary, the Mitred Archpriest Nicholas Molodyko-Harris, and Deacon Peter Staller, together with the parish’s altar servers and visiting servers. The choir sang beautifully under the direction of Mrs. Barbara Linnehan.
Following the vesting in the center of the church, Reader Jacob Kurtz, a son of the parish and seminarian at St. Tikhon’s Seminary, was ordained to the subdiaconate. May God grant him many years! Axios!
The homily was offered by Father John Parker.
During the Divine Liturgy, many of the faithful partook of the Holy Mysteries.
Following the Dismissal, His Eminence offered an archpastoral word. Archbishop Mark presented the flowers he had received to Mariana Kurtz, acknowledging her and offering congratulations on the occasion of Subdeacon Jacob’s ordination. Father Timothy Hojnicki welcomed Archbishop Mark, the clergy, faithful, and members of the local community who were present. He presented a gift on behalf of the parish, in light of Clergy Appreciation Month, to His Eminence, stating that Archbishop Mark is their archpastor and father in Christ. "Memory Eternal" was intoned for the departed members of Holy Apostles Church.
Following the veneration of the Cross, His Eminence was able to have a Question and Answer session with the inquirers and catechumens of the parish.
Afterwards, a banquet was held at the Penn Harris Hotel for the annual Dinner Dance and Silent Auction, with this year’s theme being the “Kentucky Derby.” During the banquet, it was announced that $32,176 had been raised prior to the Dinner Dance. This number does not include the proceeds from the event itself. Father Timothy presented the annual “Rector’s Award” to Mrs. Kelly Potteiger for her efforts with the GPS (Growing Parish Stewardship) Team. May God grant her many years!
Following dinner, music was played for all in attendance to enjoy and dance, providing a time of fellowship and celebration.
Photo credit: Elisabeth Parsells, Elijah Hojnicki, Mariana Kurtz, Emmelia Potteiger and others
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
