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# St. Alexis Toth Brotherhood Relaunches With Gathering in Pennsylvania
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/st-alexis-toth-brotherhood-relaunches-with-gathering-in-pennsylvania/
- Published: 2026-10-29T17:07:27.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-29T17:07:27.000Z
- Description: The revived brotherhood plans to establish three regional chapters, with monthly meetings and twice-yearly gatherings aimed at strengthening fellowship among Orthodox men.
- Author: Victor Boldewskul Jr.
- Tags: #Category: News, St. Alexis Toth, OCA, Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Orthodoxy in America

**WILKES-BARRE, PA —** The Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) is renewing the [St. Alexis Toth Brotherhood](https://doepa.org/news%5F261026%5F1), with plans to establish three regional chapters and organize regular gatherings for Orthodox Christian men.

The initiative was launched at a kickoff event Oct. 24 at Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes-Barre. Abp. Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania attended, along with clergy and other participants.

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Fr. Kirill Zawatski, director of the brotherhood and rector of Holy Ascension Church in Frackville, welcomed attendees. Fr. Paul Witek, rector of All Saints Church in Olyphant and academic dean of St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, delivered a presentation on Christian leadership, emphasizing humility, sacrificial love, and service to others.

Fr. Paul also addressed the role of fellowship in helping men overcome isolation and strengthen their relationships within the Church. His presentation was followed by a discussion among participants. The gathering included Great Vespers, served by Fr. Kirill with Abp. Mark presiding.

The brotherhood plans to establish chapters in the Frackville, Wilkes-Barre, and Philadelphia areas. Fr. Kirill will lead the Frackville chapter, Fr. Vjekoslav Jovičić will serve as clergy lead for the Wilkes-Barre area, and Protodeacon Peter Skoog will oversee the Philadelphia chapter.

The organization previously held two gatherings in 2024\. Organizers hope to hold chapter meetings every four weeks and diocesan-wide gatherings twice a year. Retreats and other activities may be introduced as the organization grows. Its revived efforts will focus on connecting men from different parishes through regular meetings and shared activities. 

Membership is open to men in good standing with the Orthodox Church, including those who attend parishes outside the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania.

The brotherhood is named for St. Alexis Toth, an influential figure in the development of Orthodox Christianity in the United States whose ministry was closely associated with Wilkes-Barre. The organization aims to strengthen connections among Orthodox men and encourage greater involvement in parish life.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/st-alexis-toth-brotherhood-to-relaunch-with-october-24-gathering-in-pennsylvania/) that the St. Alexis Toth Brotherhood will relaunch with a gathering in Pennsylvania.