BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS]

On behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Mark, the Clergy, Matushki and Faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, the Diocesan Media Office extends its warmest congratulations to Priest Paul Witek, Rector of All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, and Academic Dean at St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary, on the occasion of his 4th anniversary of ordination to the Holy Priesthood.

Father Paul was ordained to the Holy Priesthood on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, through the laying on of hands of His Eminence Archbishop Mark. A lifelong member of  Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus, NJ, where he was raised, formed, and faithfully served until 2011, Father Paul was deeply shaped through the mentorship and guidance of Archpriest John Nehrebecki during his years in the parish community. A graduate of St. Tikhon’s Theological Seminary, Father Paul first received his Diploma of Priestly Formation in 2000 before returning to complete the requirements for the Master of Divinity degree in 2002. In 2001, he received a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Seton Hall University, later completing his Doctor of Philosophy degree at Seton Hall University in 2009. Through many years of dedicated service to the Church, Father Paul has made significant contributions to theological scholarship and theological education. Following his ordination to the Holy Priesthood, he was assigned as Rector of All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, answering both the call to priestly ministry and the pastoral needs of his parish community.

Whether from the amvon, in the classroom, or through his careful stewardship of theological education, Father Paul has dedicated his life and vocation to the service of the Lord in His vineyard. Although his years of priestly ministry are comparatively few, his ongoing work and dedication in service to the Church reflect the depth of his wisdom, the strength of his pastoral care, and the remarkable skill with which he proclaims and teaches the Faith. As Academic Dean of St. Tikhon’s Theological Seminary, Father Paul faithfully preaches the Gospel with clarity and conviction, offering pastoral guidance and forming future clergy and faithful alike through his profound love for liturgics and unwavering commitment to the careful preservation of Holy Tradition within the Holy Orthodox Church in America. Widely regarded as a masterful preacher and gifted teacher, he continues to lead and inspire those entrusted to his care with diligence, wisdom, humility, and love, carrying himself with both pastoral grace and a distinct sense of style that reflects the dignity and care with which he approaches his vocation and ministry.

We, as a Diocese, pray that God will grant Priest Paul, Matushka Donna, and their family many years. Axios!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office