Our Lady of Pochaev Parish Celebrates First Liturgy at New Church
March 22, 2025—The faithful of Our Lady of Pochaev Parish (ROCOR) in North Port, FL, gathered to celebrate the first Divine Liturgy at their new church location. The service, led by Archimandrite Stefan (Khilchuk) alongside Deacon Alexander Khartoniuk, marked a triumphant moment after years of effort, prayers, and sacrifice.
The preceding day saw parishioners and monastic brethren laboring to prepare the space, ensuring a fitting place for worship. Honoring their spiritual heritage, prayers were offered for the late Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral) of Eastern America & New York and Metropolitan Nephon (Solodukh) of Volhynia & Lutsk, figures instrumental in sustaining the monastery’s mission. It was Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral) who initiated and inspired the new life of the monastery after the expulsion of the brotherhood from St. Nicholas Monastery in North Fort Myers
Fr. Stefan congratulated everyone on the feast and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the church and monastery.
The celebration concluded with communal fellowship, embodying the unity and resilience of the Orthodox faithful. This milestone stands as a testament to perseverance, faith, and the unwavering protection and intercession of the Theotokos, heralding a new chapter in the life of the parish.
Read also
UOC Hierarch: The Church Does Not Endorse 'Holy War' Concept
"The assertion that the so-called 'special military operation' is a 'Holy War' contradicts the basic principles of Christian morality," Metr. Yevlohiy said.
Georgian Bishops Finalize Procedures for Patriarchal Election
Head of public relations for the Georgian Church says bishops finalized election procedures while emphasizing unity ahead of the patriarchal council.
SVS Press Releases New Volume by St. Maximus the Confessor
The publisher's new St. Maximus volume explores the theological foundations of Orthodox Christology and the defense of Chalcedon.
Abp. Daniel Announces Synodal Clergy Awards in Chicago Diocese
The Orthodox Church in America's Synodal awards recognized clergy across multiple ranks for dedicated service in the Midwestern diocese.
Registration Opens for First OCA-Wide Clergy Wives Retreat
The Orthodox Church in America’s first churchwide clergy wives retreat aims to strengthen ministry families through prayer, fellowship, and renewal.
Kimberly Guilfoyle Meets Ecumenical Patriarch in Athens
Kimberly Guilfoyle’s meeting with Patr. Bartholomew highlighted support for religious freedom and the global mission of the Orthodox Church.