Abp. Alexei Leads Lenten Retreat in Alaska
Abp. Alexei calls the faithful in Alaska to repentance, hope, and perseverance through the Cross.
KENAI, AK — Abp. Alexei made an archpastoral visit to Holy Assumption of the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church from March 13–15, 2026, leading the faithful in worship and a Lenten retreat for the Sunday of the Cross. He was welcomed by parish rector Vasily Fisher with the traditional bread and salt greeting.
During the Soul Saturday Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, Abp. Alexei preached on remembrance of the departed, urging repentance and vigilance. “Today we commemorate them; tomorrow others will commemorate us. . . . Prepare. Repent. Awaken,” he said, reminding the faithful of both mortality and hope. A parish meal followed, and the retreat explored the theme of divine judgment through the image of the Last Judgment, emphasizing that it reveals “the true order of reality.”
On Sunday, the archbishop celebrated the Divine Liturgy for the Sunday of the Cross, highlighting Christ’s shared suffering with humanity. “The One Who calls you to bear the cross is Himself the One Who first bore it,” he said, encouraging perseverance through trials.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Alexei led Clean Week at St. Herman Seminary.
