On Sunday, November 1, the feast of the Righteous John of Kronstadt, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Luke of Syracuse paid an archpastoral visit to St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Church in Utica, NY, where he celebrated Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the parish’s patronal feast day.

During the Hours, Bishop Luke ordained parish Reader Michael Sementsov a subdeacon.

Concelebrating with His Grace at Liturgy were parish rector Archpriest Michael Taratuchin, Hieromonk Anatoly (Zilin) and Priest Ephraim Willmarth (clerics of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY), parish Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk, Protodeacon Alexander Jarostchuk (cleric of Holy Epiphany Church in Boston, MA), and Deacon Stefan Stoyanov (cleric of the Synodal Cathedral of the Sign in New York City).

The choir sang prayerfully and sweetly under the direction of Matushka Natalia Don.

After the Eucharistic Canon, Bishop Luke ordained Subdeacon Michael Sementsov to the diaconate. The newly ordained Deacon Michael will fulfill his service at St. John Memorial Church.

Upon completion of Liturgy, His Grace congratulated the clergy and parishioners with their patronal feast, and Fr. Michael, Matushka Elena, and their children with his ordination.

After the service, a bountiful luncheon was served for all in attendance.