On Saturday, September 5, Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America & New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, traveled to the Church of St. John the Russian in Ipswich, MA in order officiate the divine services there. Accompanying His Eminence was the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God, which remained in the church throughout the weekend for all to pray before and venerate.

His Eminence led the All-Night Vigil on Saturday evening, joined by Archpriests Spyridon Schneider (parish rector) and Victor Boldewskul (rector of Holy Epiphany Church in Roslindale (Boston), MA), Protodeacon Serge Arlievsky (cleric of the Synodal Cathedral of our Lady of the Sign in New York City), and Deacons Matthew LaVita and James Joyce (parish clerics).

The sisterhood prepared a meal for those in attendance which all enjoyed following Vigil.

The following morning, Sunday, September 6, the Metropolitan celebrated Divine Liturgy, where the above-mentioned clergy were joined by Protodeacon Alexander and Deacon Dimitri Doohovskoy (clerics of St. Xenia Church in Methuen, MA).

After the Great Entrance, Fr. James Joyce was ordained to the priesthood. He will continue his service at St. John the Russian Church under the guidance of Fr. Spyridon.

The church was filled with parishioners and friends who gathered to pray together for such a joyous event. All were blessed by the presence of the Kursk Root Icon and the beautiful Divine Liturgy.

Upon conclusion of Liturgy, all stayed for a bountiful feast prepared by members of the church community. Guests enjoyed celebrating on the church grounds while a perfect New England September day provided an incredible backdrop. Members of the community offered words of deep thanks to the Metropolitan for his love and care for the parish, and presented a gift and beautiful words of love and encouragement to Fr. James and Matushka Juliana.

The Metropolitan remained in Ipswich through Monday, in order to be present for Fr. James to serve his first Divine Liturgy. Liturgy was prayerful and quiet, while the Metropolitan prayed in the church. All was in the presence and grace of Our Lady Theotokos, the Kursk Root Icon.

Glory to God for all things!