Bp. Theodosius Celebrates Feast of Unexpected Joy Icon
Bp. Theodosius used the feast of the Unexpected Joy icon to call Orthodox faithful on Staten Island to repentance, prayer, and spiritual renewal.
STATEN ISLAND, NY — Bp. Theodosius of Manhattan celebrated Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Unexpected Joy Icon of the Mother of God on Staten Island on May 14, leading the parish’s patronal feast day observances and calling the faithful to sincere repentance through the example of the wonderworking icon.
Concelebrating with Bp. Theodosius were clergy from New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, including Archpriest Vasily Zelenyuk, rector of the parish, along with visiting priests and deacons from Russian Orthodox, Serbian Orthodox, and Orthodox Church in America (OCA) communities. Numerous faithful gathered for the feast, with many receiving Holy Communion before a moleben was served before the icon.
In his sermon, Bp. Theodosius recounted the story associated with the Unexpected Joy icon, which depicts a sinner praying before the Mother of God and receiving forgiveness through repentance. “We, too, when we sin, crucify the Savior with our iniquities,” he said. “And if we do not repent, we do know what will become of us after our passage into eternity.” He also emphasized the power of prayer and repentance, noting, “Any icon can become wonderworking if we turn to it with repentance and fervent prayer.”
Reflecting on spiritual struggle, the Bishop cited St. John of Kronstadt’s writings about losing divine grace and regaining it through repentance and acts of mercy. He urged the faithful to continually seek the intercessions of the Theotokos with prayers including, “O Most Holy Theotokos, save us!”
Following the services, parishioners hosted a festal meal while Fr. Vasily appealed for support as the community continues renovating and working to purchase the church building.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Theodosius said Ukraine’s authorities classified icons as works of art and relics as mummies.
