On Wednesday, March 11, the Great Lenten Retreat for clergy of the southern deaneries of the Eastern American Diocese concluded with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in St. Mary of Egypt Church in Roswell (Atlanta), GA.

After the Hours and Typica, more than 50 priests and deacons assembled to greet His Eminence Nicholas, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York. Praying in the altar was Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen).

At the Little Entrance, Priest Demetrio Romeo (cleric of St. Vladimir Church in Miami, FL) was awarded the right to wear the gold pectoral cross, and Priest Daniel Gregoire (cleric of Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church in Summerville, SC) was awarded the right to wear the kamilavka.

To the joy of the clergy and parishioners, the Protectress of the Russian Diaspora – the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God was present for the duration of the retreat and divine services.

The parish choir prayerfully adorned the service. At the Augmented Litany, special petitions were read for peace in Ukraine, followed by a special prayer for peace in the Holy Land.

Despite its being a workday, many faithful came and received Christ’s Holy Mysteries.

Upon conclusion of Liturgy, Metropolitan Nicholas delivered a sermon, during which he reminded the clergy and faithful returning home to their parishes to remain steadfast in faith, especially for the duration of Great Lent. He expressed his sincere gratitude to parish rector Archimandrite John (Townsend) and the parish for their generous hospitality.

A group photograph was taken, after which all gathered for a farewell lenten luncheon on the church portico.