On Monday the 6th and Tuesday the 7th of July, the feast of the Nativity of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptizer of the Lord John, His Grace Michael, Bishop of Boston, paid an archpastoral visit to St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Mayfield, PA, where he officiated the divine services for the parish’s patronal feast day.

Serving alongside His Grace at the All-Night Vigil on Monday evening were: Archpriest David Hritcko (rector of St. Basil Church in Simpson, PA), Priests George Sharonoff (rector of St. Stephen Church in Old Forge, PA) and Nathaniel Sorochka (parish rector), Protodeacons Stephen Howanetz (cathedral cleric), Gregory Petrochko (cleric of St. Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church in Richmond, ME), and Dimitri Krenitsky (cathedral cleric), and Deacon Christopher Kimball (cleric of St. Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church).

The above-mentioned clergy concelebrated at Divine Liturgy the following morning, joined by Archpriest Jason Franchak (rector of St. Basil OCA Church in Simpson, PA) and Priests Matthew Smith (rector of St. Nicholas Church in Endicott, NY) and Paul Siewers (rector of St. John the Wonderworker Mission in Winfield, PA).

Bishop Michael was greeted by the parish’s rector emeritus, Archpriest John Sorochka, with the traditional bread and salt. Fr. Nathaniel greeted His Grace with the cross and words of appreciation.

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

Upon completion of Liturgy, Bishop Michael addressed the gathered faithful with a sermon on St. John the Baptist – the greatest of the prophets and the connection between the Old and New Testaments.

Following Liturgy, parishioners and guests gathered in the parish center for a lenten meal, lovingly prepared and joyfully shared. The parish presented a panagia set to Bishop Michael in honor of his first visit to the cathedral.