Abp. Alexei Honors Aleut Couple for Decades of Orthodox Service

UNALASKA, AK — Abp. Alexei of the Orthodox Church in America’s (OCA) Diocese of Sitka and Alaska awarded the Diocesan Gramota to Arnold and Julia Dushkin in recognition of their decades of faithful service to Holy Ascension Cathedral and the Orthodox community of Unalaska.

In his remarks, Abp. Alexei praised the couple’s sacrifices, charitable giving, and commitment to preserving the Orthodox faith among the Aleut people. “Together, they remind us that the Church is not simply a building, but a living community of faith, sustained by those who call Holy Ascension Cathedral their spiritual home,” he said.

Arnold Dushkin, known in the Church as Arcene, was born in Kashega and spent part of his early adulthood working in the fur seal industry on the Pribilof Islands. He later served in leadership roles with the Aleut League and the Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association, helping advocate for and support Alaska’s Indigenous communities.

His wife, Julia, known in the Church as Oleta, has devoted her life to serving Unalaska’s Orthodox faithful, teaching children, singing in the Church, and supporting families through baptisms, funerals, and other important moments. Abp. Alexei also recalled her determination to ensure that a pastoral visit to Nikolski, Arnold’s home village, could proceed despite repeated weather-related travel difficulties.

The Archbishop described the couple’s lives as a continuation of the missionary work of St. Innocent of Moscow, whose legacy remains central to Orthodox Christianity in Alaska. He also warmly recalled Julia’s hospitality, including her famously generous corned beef soup, affectionately known among some Aleuts as “million-dollar soup.”

“Arnold and Julia, the Aleut community thanks you. The Church gives thanks for you. And today, your Archbishop recognizes the extraordinary witness of your lives,” Abp. Alexei said.

The Diocesan Gramota is the highest distinction bestowed by a ruling hierarch within his diocese. In presenting it, Abp. Alexei expressed hope that the couple’s example would inspire future generations to preserve and live the Orthodox faith through prayer, sacrifice, and service.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Alexei visited Chenega for a candlelit patronal feast.