OLYPHANT, PA [DOEPA]
From July 11-12, 2026, the 6th Sunday after Pentecost, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an archpastoral visit to All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, where he led the parish in prayer throughout the weekend's divine services and offered words of encouragement, strengthening the faithful in their continued life in Christ.
On Saturday, July 11, His Eminence arrived at the temple and was warmly received by the clergy and faithful. Prior to his arrival, a panikhida was served for Ann Naughton, longtime member of the parish, asking the Lord to grant rest to His departed handmaiden and eternal memory. Great Vespers was served by Priest Paul Witek, Rector of All Saints Church, and Academic Dean of St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary, with His Eminence presiding from the throne.
Following the Dismissal, Father Paul warmly welcomed Archbishop Mark to the parish, referring to him as the parish's "true pastor." Reflecting on the recent success of St. Tikhon's Summer Camp, Father Paul emphasized the profound importance of the Diocese's youth being able to say that they had "spent a week with my bishop." He expressed his gratitude to His Eminence for his fatherly care and unwavering dedication to the young people of this God-protected Diocese. Archbishop Mark spoke on the importance of the youth within the life of the Church, reminding the faithful that they are not merely the future of the Church, but the Church of today. He encouraged the parish to continue nurturing young people in the Orthodox Faith through prayer, worship, and active participation in the life of the Church. Following His Eminence's archpastoral word, Father Paul offered a brief homily.
On Sunday, July 12, the faithful of St. Nicholas Church in Olyphant, PA, joined the parish family of All Saints Church for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. His Eminence presided over the Divine Liturgy, with Priest Paul Witek and Priest Nathan Clausson, Rector of St. Nicholas Church, concelebrating. Praying in the holy altar were Mitred Archpriest Daniel Geeza and Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Fetcho. Also in attendance was Archpriest John Nightingale. The responses were beautifully and prayerfully sung by a combined choir of both parishes under the direction of Reader David Brzuchalski.
In his homily, His Eminence reflected on the Gospel account of the healing of the paralytic, emphasizing that Christ first forgave the man's sins, revealing that the healing of the soul is the foundation of every true healing. He encouraged the faithful to approach the Holy Mysteries with repentance, faith, and humility, trusting in the Lord's mercy and allowing Him to restore both soul and body through His saving grace.
During the Divine Liturgy, many of the faithful received the Holy Eucharist, partaking of Christ's Holy Mysteries.
Following the dismissal, His Eminence offered an archpastoral word to Father Paul, the faithful of All Saints Church, and the parish family of St. Nicholas Church, commending them for their many good works and encouraging them to continue strengthening the bond between the two sister parishes. Father Paul then once again welcomed Archbishop Mark and thanked him for his archpastoral visit. He also expressed his appreciation to the faithful of St. Nicholas Church and to all who had gathered for the Divine Liturgy, noting the joy of celebrating together as one Orthodox community.
Following the Prayers of Thanksgiving after Holy Communion, a festive meal was prepared and served in the parish hall, where the clergy and faithful of both All Saints Church and St. Nicholas Church gathered in fellowship. During the meal, His Eminence spent time visiting with the faithful, sharing in warm fellowship and engaging in meaningful conversations, especially with many of the youth who had recently returned from St. Tikhon's Summer Camp.
On behalf of the faithful of both parishes, Father Paul and Father Nathan presented His Eminence Archbishop Mark with a contribution towards the Diocese's Youth Ministries. Offered in gratitude for the many blessings of this year's St. Tikhon's Summer Camp, the gift reflected the shared commitment of both parish communities to investing in the spiritual formation of the Diocese's young people and supporting this vital ministry for generations to come.
Photo credit: Anna Witek and Elijah Hojnicki
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
