POTTSTOWN, PA [DOEPA]
From January 17–18, 2026, the 32nd Sunday after Pentecost and the Feast of the Holy Hierarchs Athanasius the Great and Cyril of Alexandria, Archbishops of Alexandria, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an archpastoral visit to Holy Trinity Church in Pottstown, PA, leading the faithful present in prayer and spending time with the parish community.
On Saturday, January 17, upon arrival at the temple, His Eminence was greeted by Archpriest John Edward, Rector of Holy Trinity Church. Great Vespers was served by Father John with Protodeacon Peter Skoog, and Archbishop Mark presided from the throne. Following the service, His Eminence expressed gratitude for the warm and heartfelt welcome extended to him by the faithful of the parish and for the joy of seeing so many new faces present for the service.
On Sunday, January 18, His Eminence Archbishop Mark presided at the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Concelebrating with His Eminence were Archpriest John and Protodeacon Peter, together with the parish altar servers and visiting servers. The choir offered prayerful singing under the direction of Mrs. Kristina Carter.
Archbishop Mark offered the homily on the Gospel reading recounting the healing of the blind man near Jericho, who cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me,” and, through his faith, received his sight and followed Christ, “glorifying God.” His Eminence noted that in restoring the man’s sight by His own authority, Christ revealed not only His compassion, but also His divine identity, showing Himself to be true God as well as true Man.
Concluding his homily, His Eminence reminded the faithful that physical sight is only the beginning of true vision, and warned that the greatest blindness in the world is blindness that is chosen, when one willingly turns away from the light and chooses to walk in darkness.
Despite the inclement weather, many of the faithful present received Christ’s Holy Mysteries.
Following the service, His Eminence offered an archpastoral word and again expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to him by the faithful of the parish. Father John thanked Archbishop Mark for his presence and leadership, referring to him as the true “rector of the parish.”
Following the veneration of the Cross and the reading of the post-Communion prayers, a meal was held in the parish hall. This provided an opportunity for parishioners to be with His Eminence and have time with their fellow Orthodox Christians.
Photo credit: Emily Kolsevich and Elijah Hojnicki
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
