EAST AMERICAN DIOCESE: 13 March, 2026
A meeting of the clergy of the Southern Deanery of the East American Diocese concludes with a Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, a meeting of the clergy of the Southern Deanery of the East American Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia concluded with the celebration of the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at the Church of Venerable Mary of Egypt in Atlanta, GA.

After vespers and matins, more than 50 priests and deacons gathered to meet His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York. Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen) prayed in the altar.

During the minor entrance, Priest Dimitry Romeo was awarded the right to wear a gold pectoral cross, and Priest Daniel Gregoire – the right to wear a kamilavka.

To the joy of the clergy and parishioners, during the meeting and services, the Protectress of the Russian diaspora – the miraculous Kursk-Root Icon of the Mother of God “of the Sign” – was present.

Despite it being a working day, many believers came and partook of the Holy Mysteries of Christ.

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

A group photo was then taken, after which everyone gathered for a farewell Lenten meal.

Eastern American Diocese