Relics of Recently Canonized Saint Gifted to Macedonian Orthodox Parish in Chicago

Photo: Sveta Paraskeva Petka Macedonian Orthodox Church - Facebook

CHICAGO — The faithful of St. Paraskeva Petka Macedonian Orthodox Church in Chicago are now blessed with the opportunity to venerate the relics of a recently canonized saint from their homeland. 

On May 23, during a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrating the feast of St. Joakim Krčovski, a relic of the saint was formally presented to the parish by His Eminence Metropolitan Metodij of America and Canada, with clergy from both the Macedonian and Orthodox Church in America (OCA) in attendance.

The relics were a gift from the Diocese of Kumanovo and Osogovo of the Macedonian Orthodox Church - Ohrid Archbishopric. Their arrival in Chicago marks a spiritual milestone for the local Macedonian Orthodox community, connecting them to their ecclesiastical heritage and inspiring renewed commitment to preserving their faith, language, and identity.

St. Joakim Krčovski (1750–1820), canonized in 2022, was an 18th – 19th century priest, monk, and educator renowned as the father of modern Macedonian literature and a tireless spiritual teacher. Educated in Constantinople and widely traveled, he taught and preached across Macedonia, adapting his message to the vernacular for the spiritual upliftment of common people during the hardships of Ottoman rule. His writings – including interpretations of Scripture, theological teachings, and pastoral advice – reflect a profound Orthodox spirituality consistent with the Church Fathers.

Even after being widowed, he continued his ministry as a monk, gathering disciples and advocating for education, including for girls – a rarity at the time. His relics were safeguarded and venerated by generations, and now continue to bless the faithful in America. His feast day is celebrated annually on May 23/10.

After St. Joakim’s canonization in 2022, His Eminence Metropolitan Agatangel of Povadarie stated, “St. Joakim Krčovski is our undiscovered Chrysostom. Following the example of the great and eloquent Apostles, St. Joakim preached the good news of the Gospel of Christ among the people with great love and spiritual fervor. Countless are the souls that Fr. Joakim saved and transformed, and which he offered to the Lord as pure wheat.”

Previously, UOJ reported on Orthodox clergy and faithful from around the world now having the opportunity to venerate the full-body relics of St. Raphael of Brooklyn, newly enshrined at Ss. Peter and Paul Chapel at the Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center.

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