MECHANICSBURG, PA [DOEPA]

From August 1-2, 2026, the 9th Sunday after Pentecost, the commemoration of the Translation of the relics of the Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen from Jerusalem to Constantinople, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an archpastoral visit to Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA. During his visit, His Eminence presided over the divine services, offering prayers with the clergy and faithful while bringing words of spiritual encouragement as the Church began its journey through the Dormition Fast.

Founded on Sunday, June 20, 2004, Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, was established as a mission of Christ the Saviour Church in Harrisburg, PA, to serve the growing Orthodox faithful on the western shore of the Susquehanna River. During its early years, the parish worshiped in a local mission outreach center, with the faithful transforming the space into a chapel each weekend before dismantling it following the Divine Liturgy. In June 2005, the parish welcomed Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki as its first full-time rector, marking a significant milestone in the growth and development of the young mission within the Orthodox Church in America. Today, Holy Apostles is recognized as one of the strongest and most vibrant parish communities in the God-protected Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania. Through its steadfast commitment to the liturgical life of the Church, faithful stewardship, strong parish fellowship, and continued growth, the parish has become a model of Orthodox ministry and continues to bear witness to the Orthodox Faith throughout the greater Mechanicsburg area.

On Saturday, August 1, His Eminence arrived at the temple and was warmly welcomed by the clergy and faithful before receiving a special greeting from the Living Orthodox Lives (LOL) Youth Group. Organized by the Growing Parish Stewardship (GPS) Committee, the community-wide car wash brought together parishioners of all ages in support of Holy Apostles' Phase II Building Fund. The Youth Group eagerly washed the Archbishop's vehicle alongside those of many parishioners and visitors, while volunteers also offered baked goods, snacks, and refreshments. The fundraiser helped advance Holy Apostles' ongoing effort to retire its mortgage, with more than $90,000 remaining, and reflected the vibrant spirit of stewardship, fellowship, and active youth involvement that continues to characterize one of the Diocese's healthiest and fastest-growing parish communities.

Prior to Great Vespers, a Memorial Litiya was served for departed members of the parish, including His Eminence's newly-departed brothers-in-law, Robert and Robert. Great Vespers was celebrated by Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, Diocesan Vice-Chancellor, Dean of the Frackville Deanery, and Rector of Holy Apostles Church, with His Eminence presiding from the throne.

Following the Dismissal, Father Timothy warmly welcomed Archbishop Mark. His Eminence offered a homily on the importance of the Dormition Fast, emphasizing that the Church, in her wisdom, provides this sacred season as an opportunity to refocus our hearts and minds on Christ through prayer, fasting, repentance, and renewed spiritual discipline. He reflected on how the fast calls us to set aside worldly distractions, deepen our relationship with the Lord, and prepare to celebrate the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos with purified hearts, renewed faith, and a steadfast commitment to the spiritual life.

On Sunday, August 2, His Eminence Archbishop Mark celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Concelebrating were Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki and the Mitred Archpriest Nicholas Molodyko-Harris. Praying in the altar was Presbyter Theodore Pulcini. The choir was beautifully led under the direction of Mrs. Barbara Linnehan.

The homily was offered by Father Timothy Hojnicki.

During the Divine Liturgy, with more than 200 faithful in attendance, many received the Holy Eucharist.

Prior to the veneration of the Cross, His Eminence offered an archpastoral word to the faithful of Holy Apostles Church, expressing his joy and gratitude for the warm welcome extended to him throughout the weekend. He remarked on the vibrant and flourishing life of the parish, noting with great joy the full church and the evident commitment of the faithful to the liturgical life of the Church. His Eminence commended the clergy and parishioners for their spirit of unity, stewardship, and hospitality, observing that Holy Apostles continues to stand as one of the Diocese's healthiest and most active parish communities. He encouraged the faithful to remain steadfast in their love for Christ and His Church, continuing to build upon the strong foundation that has been established through prayer, faithfulness, and dedicated service to one another.

After the Prayers of Thanksgiving, His Eminence spent time with the faithful during the fellowship hour, greeting parishioners, visitors, and guests while sharing in conversation with members of the community. He spoke personally with many of the faithful, offering words of encouragement and expressing his appreciation for the parish's continued dedication and hospitality. The fellowship hour provided an opportunity for parishioners to spend time with their archpastor and reflect on the weekend's services.

Photo credit: Kelly Potteiger, Shannon Jacka, Nadia Constantine and Elijah Hojnicki

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office