Wonderworking Iveron Icon to Revisit Saipan and Guam

Photo: Orthodox Kauai

SAIPAN, MP — With anticipation and reverence, the Orthodox faithful of Saipan and Guam are preparing to receive the return of the Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God later this month, marking its second visit to the region.

The holy icon will be accompanied by Priest Nectarios Yangson of Honolulu, who serves as rector of the Holy Theotokos of Iveron Russian Orthodox Church and as priest-in-charge of the Orthodox Christian community on Saipan. During the icon’s previous visit, a small gathering of believers on Saipan developed into a growing parish community.

In a related development, Abp. Kyrill of San Francisco and Western America recently named the Saipan mission parish in honor of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God. Construction is currently underway to transform a former post office into a permanent Orthodox church, with regular liturgical services expected soon.

A series of services is scheduled on Saipan from March 21–25, followed by a visit to Guam beginning March 26.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon made a historic first visit to Japan.

Ecumenical Patriarch to Preside Over Patr. Ilia II’s Funeral in Tbilisi

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will preside over the funeral of Patr. Ilia II, as Georgia and the Orthodox world gather to mourn the loss of a revered spiritual leader.

U.S. Secretary of State Offers Condolences on Passing of Patr. Ilia II

Marco Rubio honors legacy of long-serving primate of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Filaret Denysenko Passes at 97

His death closes a defining chapter in the long and contentious history of the Ukrainian church schism.