Canadian Parish Honors Royal Martyrs with Annual 'Royal Days' Commemoration
Photo: synod.com
JACKSON’S POINT, ON — The parish of the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God Church, known within Canada’s Russian Orthodox community as “Berezki,” solemnly marked the “Royal Days” with liturgical celebrations and communal events in honor of the Holy and Righteous Royal Martyrs Tsar Nicholas II, Tsarina Alexandra, and their children.
Held annually since 2017 - when Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America and New York of blessed memory laid the foundation of a chapel to mark the centennial of the family’s martyrdom - the commemorations have become a spiritual centerpiece of the parish.
Photo: synod.com
On July 16–17, 2025, Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the chapel, followed by a cross procession and moleben for the Royal Martyrs, led by parish rector Fr. Maxim Abroskin. Evening services continued on July 17, with an additional Divine Liturgy on July 18 commemorating the Holy Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna.
The commemorations concluded Sunday, July 20, with a festive parish lunch hosted by the sisterhood named in honor of St. Elizabeth. The annual celebration draws faithful from across the region to honor the legacy of the Royal Martyrs with prayer, fellowship, and remembrance.
Previously, UOJ reported that Met. Jonah of ROCOR had performed several baptisms and ordinations at St. Mary of Egypt Orthodox Church in Atlanta.
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.