On December 19, the Orthodox Church prayerfully commemorates the Holy Hierarch and Wonderworker Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia. Although St. Nicholas lived long ago in the 4th century, left no theological treatises or works, and did not occupy any major sees, he remains one of the greatest saints and beloved God-pleasers of all times and peoples, honored among the ancient Christian churches.

On the threshold of the feast in Our Lady of Pochaev Church in North Port, FL, Hieromonk Arkadii (Polishchuk) decorated the church with unique and marvelous floral arrangements. On Wednesday evening, Fr. Arkadii and Deacon Alexander Kharitoniuk served the All-Night Vigil with the blessing of bread, wine, oil, and wheat. At the divine service, the canons and stichera glorified God and the ascetic labors of His saint, the Holy Hierarch Nicholas.

On the very day of the feast, parish rector Archimandrite Stefan (Khilchuk) celebrated Divine Liturgy, co-served by Hierodeacon Paisius (Alexeevets) and Fr. Alexander. Despite its being a workday, many parishioners and guests gathered for the service. The service was adorned by the singing of Fr. Arkadii, choir directory Natalia Klyusov, and other singers.

At the end of Liturgy, Fr. Stefan greeted all with the feast of the Holy Hierarch Nicholas. The brethren lovingly distributed sweet festal gifts to all, reminding them of the virtuous and benevolent service of the holy hierarch and wonderworker Nicholas. The feast concluded with a shared luncheon and warm interaction between clerics and parishioners.

Another important event for the monastery and all of the parishioners also took place on this festal day: a lease was signed, obtaining a permanent location for Our Lady of Pochaev Monastery. The community sincerely thanks all those who responded to their call and has already taken part in raising funds for a new home for monastery. Every donation you make moves them close to their goal and is a priceless contribution to building "a place of habitation for God."

Donations can be made several ways:

• via Zelle at pochaevorthodox@gmail.com
• by check to "Russian Orthodox Church of the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God"
• in church
• by mail to:

12761 Tamiami Trail S
North Port, FL 34287

May the Lord reward you all for your good works, prayers, and participation in this holy endeavor. The brethren continue to pray for all benefactors and those who still plan to donate to this God-pleasing effort.