On Wednesday, July 31, and Thursday, August 1, the feast of the Finding of the Relics of Venerable Seraphim, Wonderworker of Sarov, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal & Canada visited Holy Dormition Convent "Novo-Diveevo" in Nanuet, NY, in connection with the patronal feast of the convent’s main church.

His Eminence officiated All-Night Vigil and the reading of the Akathist to the venerable saint, co-served by: Archpriest Alexander Fedorowski (cathedral dean), Archimandrite Siluan (Lembei; cleric of Three Hierarchs Church in Hollywood, FL), Archpriests Elias Gorsky (rector of Holy Virgin Protection Church in Nyack, NY), George Zelenin (rector of St. Michael the Archangel Church in Wayne, NJ), and Vasily Zelenyuk (rector of the Church of the Mother of God "Unexpected Joy" in Staten Island, NY), and Priest Artem Siss and Deacon Alexey Pnev (convent clerics).

On Wednesday morning, a second akathist and Lesser Blessing of Water was served. With the exception of Fr. Vasily, all of the above-mentioned clergy concelebrated with Archbishop Gabriel at Divine Liturgy.

The choir sang the divine services under the direction of Alla Generalova. Praying at Liturgy were the sisters of the convent led by Abbess Makaria, as well as a multitude of pilgrims. That day, many communed of Christ’s Holy Mysteries.

In his sermon, Archbishop Gabriel spoke about the importance of St. Seraphim and significant events in his life.

A moleben was served, followed by a procession around the cathedral dedicated to the venerable saint. The Protodeacon intoned the polychronion to the abbess and sisters – especially to those celebrating their namesday.

All were blessed with holy water, and festal meal was served to all in the main convent dining hall, and pilgrims and visitors had the chance to socialize with the clergy and visit the cemetery throughout the afternoon.

His Eminence made a point to visit the convent’s "Book Nook," where the sisters showed him some of the many books and icons that are available for purchase. The archbishop marveled at the little corner with children’s books and small toys. Following the luncheon he agreed to hold a short talk with the faithful and answer their questions about Orthodoxy, the spiritual life, and navigating the secular world in which we live.