JORDANVILLE: December 1, 2006
His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus Sends Greetings to Protopresbyter Elias Wen and Mitred Protopriest Boris Kizenko

On November 26, the 75 th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of Protopresbyter Elias Wen was celebrated at the Cathedral in San Francisco. On this occasion, the First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia sent Fr Elias and the Cathedral's parishioners a greeting, at the end of which His Eminence writes:

"Today, I send my heartfelt congratulations to Fr Elias and the worshipers of the Cathedral of the Mother of God 'Joy of All Who Sorrow' in San Francisco, which was established through the efforts of Archbishop Tikhon and Archbishop John and their fellow laborers! On Saturday, November 5/18, we marked the 50 th anniversary of the episcopal consecration of Archbishop Anthony (Medvedev, +2000) of San Francisco and Western America, under whom Fr Elias served for 32 years. May the Lord grant eternal peace to the bright souls of these archpastors, through whose prayers may He strengthen us on our life's path! And may the Lord reward all of you with His great and abundant mercies!

"And Fr Elias, may the Chief Pastor, our Lord Jesus Christ, help you continue to sow this abundant field, which is so grateful to you! Sow it kindly, pray, beseech the Lord for your spiritual children and for us, who share their joy; do not forget us in your prayers. Amen."

On the same day, St. Vladimir Memorial Church in Jackson, NJ, celebrated the 50 th anniversary of the clerical service of Mitred Protopriest Boris Kizenko, to whom His Eminence Vladyka also sent a congratulatory letter.