"And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?"
‒ Luke 1:43

In the city of North Port, FL, an important and spiritual significant event took place in the Church of the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God – an event that will long be remembered by the faithful. Wednesday, October 18, was the day when the myrrh-streaming Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God visited the community. This event united parishioners and granted them an opportunity greet the holy image with piety and prayer.

The moleben served in honor of the visit of the Hawaiian icon was a majestic and touching moment. Officiating the service was His Grace James, Bishop of Sonora, second vicar of the Western American Diocese, who paid a visit to the church, co-served by rector Archimandrite Stefan (Khilchuk), Priest Saša Đurđević (rector of St. Sava Serbian Church in North Port), and brotherhood Deacon Alexander Kharitoniuk.

The service filled the church with spiritual power and gratitude. Bishop James led the procession accompanying the Hawaiian Icon to the church. This was a special moment of anticipation and hope. The faithful present anxiously awaited the arrival of the holy icon, and prepared themselves to greet it. The moleben was a time of repentance, prayer, and gratitude. The faithful prayed before the Most Holy Theotokos, asking her intercession and aid. The spiritual atmosphere that filled the church enveloped everyone in grace and hope.

After the moleben, parishioners had an opportunity to approach the icon and venerate it, offering their prayers and entreaties. The rector, Fr. Stefan, anointed all with holy myrrh, filling them with grace and spiritual strength. This moment drew the faithful near to God and reminded them of the importance of faith and unity in the Christian community. This day was a gift for all who came and shared in this sacred moment. May the blessing of the Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God accompany us all on our spiritual path and fill our lived with light and hope.