Metr. Saba Continues Southern California Archpastoral Visit

Metr. Saba visits St. George Orthodox Church of Upland, CA. Photo: antiochian.org

UPLAND, CA — Continuing an archpastoral visit to Southern California that began April 18, 2026, His Eminence Metr. Saba and His Grace Bp. Anthony have been celebrating parish feast days, leading services, and meeting with the faithful across multiple Orthodox communities.

On Saturday, April 25, the hierarchs marked the patronal feast of St. Mark Church in Irvine. Welcoming clergy and faithful included Fr. George Katrib and Fr. Michael Laffoon. In his homily, Metr. Saba reflected on St. Mark’s early life, noting that even a “troublemaker” can be transformed through repentance and growth in Christ, emphasizing that no one is excluded from grace.

He further urged Orthodox Christians to become “preachers according to our gifts,” describing evangelism as both spoken witness and lived example. He encouraged the faithful to “live the gospel” and “be a living gospel,” and to share Christ in language accessible to others. Following services, he offered blessings to children and attended a parish Easter egg hunt.

Earlier in the week, on April 22, the visit included St. George Church in Upland, where Great Vespers, Orthros, and Divine Liturgy were celebrated, followed by an agape meal and discussion with parishioners.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Saba honored the life of Elder Joseph in a moving tribute.

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