Metr. Saba Continues Archpastoral Tour of Texas Parishes
Photo: Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America/Facebook
HOUSTON, TX — From January 16–February 2, His Eminence Metr. Saba is visiting parishes in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio to ordain clergy, elevate an archpriest, and engage with local communities. His tour began at St. Anthony the Great Church in Spring, Texas, where he celebrated the patronal feast, emphasized ascetical life, and elevated Fr. John Ballard to archpriest.
Subsequent visits include Holy Transfiguration Mission of Kingwood, Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebaste in Sugar Land, St. Silouan the Athonite in College Station, and St. Joseph the Betrothed in Houston. At each parish thus far, Metr. Saba presided at Divine Liturgies and Vespers, tonsured readers, shared theological guidance, and encouraged faithful engagement with sacramental life.
Metr. Saba also met with young adults, discussed theosis and spiritual growth, and offered pastoral advice on daily Christian living. Across all visits, he stressed the importance of remaining connected to the Orthodox Church, fostering community, and nurturing faith in children and youth.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Widowed Clergy Wives Endowment Fund had raised more than $1.3 million.
Read also
Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations
Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.
New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania
"The School has been in the prayers of St. John Chrysostom Orthodox Church since the community's founding in 1992," a press release states. "Through God, all things are possible!"
Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt
A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.
Ukrainian Protodeacon Alleges False Prosecutions of Priests
Protodeacon Vadim Novinsky said that the vast majority of criminal cases opened against Ukrainian Orthodox Church clergy are fabricated, with the government threatening them to accept plea deals.
Abp. Mark Visits Holy Apostles Parish for Lenten Weekend
Abp. Mark’s visit blended worship, teaching, and encouragement during the Lenten journey.
Abp. Alexei Delivers Lenten Homily in Anchorage
A Lenten homily in Alaska called the faithful back to patient, step-by-step transformation in Christ.