WILLIAMSPORT, PA [DOEPA]

On Sunday, July 19, 2026, following the Divine Liturgy at Elevation of the Holy Cross Church in Williamsport, PA, the faithful gathered for the annual blessing of vehicles in commemoration of the Feast of the Holy and Glorious Prophet Elijah, celebrated by the Orthodox Church on July 20.

Following the dismissal, a procession was made from the church to the parking lot, led by the parish servers and Archpriest Seraphim Reynolds, Rector. As the procession was made, the faithful sang "O Lord, Save Thy People," while Father Seraphim went among the vehicles, blessing each with holy water. The annual custom is observed in many Orthodox parishes near the Feast of the Holy Prophet Elijah, who is traditionally regarded as a heavenly protector of travelers and is closely associated with chariots through his fiery ascent into heaven.

July 19 is also the commemoration of the Uncovering of the Relics of Venerable Seraphim of Sarov, whose glorification took place in 1903, seventy years after his repose. During the celebrations at Sarov, the Saint's relics were solemnly opened for public veneration, drawing thousands of faithful and becoming associated with numerous accounts of miraculous healings. Saint Seraphim remains one of the most beloved and widely venerated saints of the Orthodox Church. In honor of the commemoration, the faithful of Elevation of the Holy Cross Church were given the opportunity to venerate relics of Saint Seraphim following the Divine Liturgy.

The observance offered the parish community an opportunity to commemorate the Holy Prophet Elijah while asking the Lord's continued blessing and protection upon the faithful and their travels.

Photo credit: Matushka Mary Reynolds

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office