On April 30, the Sunday of the Holy Myrrh-bearing Women, His Grace, Bishop Jerome, paid his traditional visit to Holy Virgin Protection Church in Nyack, NY for the patronal feast of the parish sisterhood.

Celebrating Divine Liturgy, His Grace was co-served by parish clergy: Archpriests George Larin (pastor emeritus) and Ilya Gorsky (rector), Priest Ignatius Green, Protodeacon Dimitri Temidis, and Deacon Andrew Podymow. The parish choir sang the service beautifully, including some pieces sung only by the male choir.

As is his custom, Bishop Jerome delivered two sermons: the first in Russian, on the Gospel words regarding the Holy Myrrhbearers, "Neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid," a lesson on when we should keep silence and when we must speak out; and the second in English, on the words, "When the number of disciples was multiplied, there was a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews," a lesson on ethnic and partisan tensions in the Church, and how they are inspired by Satan.

Following the dismissal, Fr. Dimitri intoned the Polychronion for the hierarchy, clergy, and sisterhood.

After the service, a "double" luncheon was offered in the parish hall, the first course being prepared by the sisterhood, and the second course prepared by Fr. Ignatius and Matushka Aimilia Green in honor of their new child, whose arrival is expected soon. At the clergy table, there were friendly discussions of various practical questions in church life, and the Typicon.