Hawaiian Iveron Icon Draws Multitudes as Chapel Dedicated to St. Nicholas is Blessed

CREDIT: https://liturgija.mk/

Detroit, MI—The wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God was solemnly received at the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos Cathedral in Sterling Heights, a suburb of Detroit, the weekend of May 17–18, 2025.

The event marked a spiritual highlight for the Macedonian Orthodox Church-Ohrid Archbishopric’s Diocese of America and Canada.

Fr. Nektarios Yangson, the guardian of the Icon, accompanied by Deacon Seraphim Stojance Andov from Hawaii, brought the myrrh-streaming icon, drawing hundreds of faithful from diverse backgrounds. On Saturday, Vespers and a moleben were served by clergy from local and sister Orthodox parishes. Sunday’s Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Fr. Nektarios and Macedonian clerics, included the presence of Metropolitan Metodij, who later blessed a newly constructed courtyard chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.

The faithful venerated the Icon, received anointing, and experienced a deep sense of grace. Celebrations concluded with a festive meal and folk performances, uniting the community in prayer and cultural joy.

Fr. Nektarios Yangson was awarded the Order of St. Clement of Ohrid, Third Degree, by the Holy Synod of the Macedonian Orthodox Church in September 2024. The Holy Synod bestowed the award in recognition for his many trips to the Archdiocese in his capacity as the guardian of the Holy icon.

For more information, see liturgia.mk

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