OLYPHANT, PA [DOEPA]

On Monday, February 2, 2026, the faithful of All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple.

The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Priest Paul Witek, Priest Paul Witek, Rector of All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, and Academic Dean at St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary,. The divine services were enhanced by the beautiful hymns of the feast, sung by the parish choir under the direction of Reader David Brzuchalski. The sacred melodies filled the church with reverence and devotion.

Prior to the Divine Liturgy, in keeping with the ancient traditions of the feast, the customary blessing of candles took place. This beautiful practice symbolizes Christ as the True Light who has come into the world, dispelling the darkness of sin and death. The blessed candles serve as a tangible reminder of that divine illumination, to be taken into the homes of the faithful as a sign of Christ's presence and protection. The congregation came forward with their candles to receive the blessing, and the church was filled with a warm glow that reflected the joy and hope of the feast.

Father Paul offered the homily. During the Divine Liturgy, the faithful approached the Holy Chalice to partake of the Holy Mysteries, receiving the precious Body and Blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting.

The celebration of this holy day at All Saints Church served as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises and of the light of Christ that continues to shine in the lives of all who receive Him.

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office