On December 29, the Sunday of the Holy Forefathers, Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America & New York celebrated Divine Liturgy in the Synodal Cathedral of the Sign in New York City, co-served by Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan. Concelebrating with the hierarchs were: cathedral dean Archpriest Andrei Sommer, Archpriest Edward Chervinsky, and Protodeacon Nicolas Mokhoff (cathedral clerics), Protodeacon Serge Arlievsky (cleric of Holy Dormition Convent "Novo-Diveevo" in Nanuet, NY), and Hierodeacon Arcadius (Polischuk). The Synodal choir sang under the direction of Protodeacon Vadim Gan.

The Sunday service was held under the aegis of the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God. The church was filled with worshippers, virtually all of whom communed of Christ’s Holy Mysteries.

After the Great Entrance, Metropolitan Hilarion ordained Hierodeacon Arcadius to the priesthood; he will fulfill his obedience in Florida.

Upon completion of the service, Metropolitan Hilarion spoke about the Forefathers, the Prophets, to whom were revealed the life and sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ. His Eminence called on the faithful to have firm faith in the Savior and to live according to His Commandments; to prepare for the upcoming radiant feast, having cleansed their souls in the Sacrament of Holy Confession; and to greet with a pure heart the feast of Christ’s Nativity.

The cathedral sisterhood prepared a lenten Sunday luncheon for the clergy and parishioners, during which they continued their interaction.