The parish of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Mayfield, PA, rejoiced in the grace-filled celebration of its patronal feast – the Nativity of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord John. This year’s observance was especially blessed by the archpastoral visit of Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America & New York, who celebrated hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Monday, July 7.

Metropolitan Nicholas was greeted by council President Tatiana Sorochka with the traditional bread and salt, and council member Malina Bazink greeted him with a bouquet of flowers.

Cathedral rector Priest Nathaniel Sorochka greeted His Eminence with the cross and words of appreciation. Concelebrating with the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad were: Archpriest David Hritcko (rector of St. Basil Church in Simpson, PA), Archpriest Jason Franchak (rector of St. Basil OCA Church in Simpson, PA), Priest George Sharonoff (rector of St. Stephen Church in Old Forge, PA), Fr. Nathaniel, Protodeacons Stephen Howanetz (cathedral cleric) Gregory Petrochko (cleric of St. Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church in Richmond, ME), Michael Pavuk (cleric of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY,) Dimitri Krenitsky (cathedral cleric), and Deacon Christopher Kimball (cleric of St. Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church).

During the Hours, Metropolitan Nicholas awarded altar-server John Tolerico the right to wear the orarion, a visible sign of his growing service to the Church.

Guided by the leadership of Matushka Larissa Sorochka, the cathedral choir rendered sacred musical offerings, uplifting the worship throughout the divine services.

Following Liturgy, parishioners and guests gathered in the parish center for a lenten meal, lovingly prepared and joyfully shared. The communal table reflected the unity and warmth of the parish family, a fitting conclusion to a day of spiritual renewal and festal joy.

This year’s patronal feast was not only a celebration of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, but also a testament to the enduring faith, service, and unity of the Mayfield parish. With the blessing and presence of Metropolitan Nicholas and the participation of clergy from near and far, the community was reminded of its sacred heritage and its vibrant future in Christ.

In a moving tribute, the parish received from Metropolitan Nicholas a new memorial item honoring the ever-memorable Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral). This piece is a panagia presented to Metropolitan Hilarion by Archpriest John D. Sorochka (pastor emeritus of St. John Cathedral) on behalf of the clergy and faithful in 2008, which marked his first visit to Mayfield as the newly elected First Hierarch of ROCOR. This panagia will be included in a commemorative case which includes his hierarchal mantle, vestments, and sacred items used during his visits to Mayfield. This joins existing memorials to Metropolitan Laurus (Škurla) and Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich), forming a spiritual lineage that continues to inspire the faithful.