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# Fourteen Newly Illumined Received into Orthodox Church in Pennsylvania
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/86558-fourteen-newly-illumined-received-into-orthodox-church-in-hermitage/
- Published: 2026-02-26T07:45:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-25T16:11:30.000Z
- Description: On the eve of Lent, fourteen faithful were received into the Orthodox Church in Hermitage.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, Baptism, Parish growth

**HERMITAGE, PA —** On Forgiveness Sunday, Holy Cross Orthodox Church [announced](https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story%5Ffbid=1292047762952381&id=100064415093262&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=MG6Y1zQGWMW4yUFK) that fourteen people were received into the Orthodox Faith, marking a joyful spiritual milestone on the eve of the fasting season.

In a message shared after the service, the parish gave thanks to God for the newly illumined faithful and asked for continued prayers as they begin their new lives in Christ. The timing — immediately prior to Lent — underscores the Church’s call to renewal, repentance, and deeper commitment as the faithful prepare for Pascha.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/02/87159-ex-world-cup-footballer-joins-orthodox-faith-image-de0fca762ec5.jpg)On this topicBozeman Parish Celebrates 10 Baptisms, 15 New Catechumens](https://uoj.news/news/86536-bozeman-parish-celebrates-10-baptisms-15-new-catechumens/)

Quoting the words, “As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ,” the parish highlighted the transformative nature of Holy Baptism. Parishioners gathered in prayerful celebration, welcoming the new members into full communion as the community prepares to enter the Lenten journey together.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/86029-wave-of-conversions-continues-with-mass-baptism-in-houston/) on a mass baptism in Houston.