Romanian Orthodox Mission Begins Regular Services in Grove City

GROVE CITY, PA — A new Orthodox mission community is developing in Grove City, Pennsylvania, under the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate of America, with regular Divine Liturgy services beginning under the pastoral care of Fr. Spyridon Ickes.

The mission was established with the blessing of Abp. Nathaniel of Detroit and the support and guidance of Bp. Andrei of Cleveland. Services are currently scheduled for the first and third Saturdays of each month.

Twenty-seven people attended a recent Divine Liturgy, despite road closures near the gathering place caused by a local parade. The community currently meets in a Methodist church under an agreement allowing use of the facility for an initial three-month period. Organizers plan to explore longer-term worship arrangements as the mission grows.

Fr. Spyridon is also involved in Orthodox college ministry in Grove City, providing opportunities for Orthodox students to participate in the developing community. Many students were unable to attend the recent service because of a college event.

The mission is working to establish a stable presence for Orthodox worship in the area. The Romanian Orthodox Episcopate has asked the faithful to pray for Fr. Spyridon and the community as they continue organizing services and seeking a permanent place to gather.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a Philadelphia Orthodox mission launched a campaign for a permanent parish home.