On May 26, the Sunday of the Paralytic, Archpriest James Dougherty reposed in the Lord. He was 67 years old.

Fr. James was born on July  9, 1956 in Philadelphia, PA to James and Anita Dougherty. In addition to his secular education and several degrees, he attended St. Tikhon Orthodox Theological Seminary and received a Master’s Degree in Applied Orthodox Theology from the University of Balamand.

The future cleric married Dr. Katherine (Roberta) Shahin in 1986. Their daughter Katherine was born in 1992. His wife reposed suddenly in 1997.

In 1999, Fr. James was ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Antoun (Khouri; +2017) of Selefkia for service in the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America. In 2001, Bishop Antoun ordained him to the priesthood. In 2014, Fr. James transferred to ROCOR, and in 2017 was elevated to the rank of archpriest by Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral; 2022).

Fr. James served for a time as second priest at Christ the Savior Church in Wayne, WV. At other times, he served as a supply priest, and was always active in diocesan life, attending clergy retreats and conferences.

More detailed information regarding services for the departed will be published in the near future.

Memory Eternal to the newly reposed Archpriest James!

Schedule of Services for the Departed
St. John the Baptist Cathedral – 4001 17th Street NW · Washington, DC 20011

Wednesday, June 5 at 6:00 PM – Arrival of the body. Panihida.

Thursday, June 6 at 10:00 AM – Funeral. Burial to follow:

Columbia Gardens Cemetery
3411 Arlington Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201

Clergy are asked to bring WHITE vestments for all the services.