On Friday, October 26th, opening ceremonies for the Orthodox Icon Exhibit "Icon: the Way to the Kingdom" were held at the Connelly Center, Villanova University, Pennsylvania.

In collaboration with Fr. Richard G. Cannuli, OSA, Director and Curator of the Villanova University Art Gallery, the exhibit was conceived, the icons and other liturgical items gathered, and their display organized by the Very Reverend Archpriest John Perich, Pastor, St. Herman of Alaska Church, Gradyville, PA.

The exhibit includes Cretan, Romanian, Syrian, Coptic, Carpathian-Rusyn, Greek, Russian, Serbian and Ukrainian icons along with vestments, Gospel books, chalices and miters. The artifacts were drawn from the Metropolitan Museum of the Orthodox Church of America located at the Monastery of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk in South Canaan, PA and private collections. Some of the artifacts have never before been seen publicly.

His Eminence, Archbishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, presided at the Prayer Service of Thanksgiving (Moleben) and blessing for the opening of the exhibit with the Miraculous Icon of "She Who Is Quick to Hear" brought by Abbot Sergius from the Monastery of St. Tikhon of Zadonsk. His Grace, Bishop Michael of New York and New Jersey shared the joy of this great event by concelebrating the Moleben that day along with many local clergy.

The Orthodox Icon Exhibit will be open from Friday, October 26 until Sunday, December 16, 2012.

A flyer for the events listing dates and times can be found HERE.