Bishop Mitrophan visits Carmichaels parish on the Eve of Theophany

His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan, Serbian Orthodox Bishop of Eastern America came to St.George Serbian Orthodox Church in Carmichaels, Pennsylvania on the Eve of Theophany, Sunday, January 5/18, 2009 to celebrate the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, serve the Great Blessing of the Water and to Bless the nearby Monongahela River located within view of the St.George Church.

His Grace was assisted by Father Deacon Dragoslav Kosic, Diocesan Secretary. The St.George Choir under the direction of Sonia Janson sang the responses. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, His Grace spoke of the history and importance of the Feast of Theophany and of the enduring value of Holy Water as described by St.John Chrysostom.

Following the river blessing, a posno dinner was held at Dolfi's in Masontown. The restaurant is owned by St.George Executive Board President Stan Brozik and his wife Karen. The Brozik's celebrate St.John the Baptist as their Krsna Slava.

The St.George Church was honored to have His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN present for this important occasion. At the conclusion of the Blessing of the Monongahela River, His Grace placed an ice cross into the river.

The ice cross was crafted by Sonia Janson. The blessing of the Monongahela River near the St.George Church has occurred each of the past ten years in connection with the Great Feast of Theophany.

This year's celebration increased in joy because it was celebrated by the Diocesan Bishop, His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN assisted by Father Deacon Dragoslav Kosic.

Source: www.easterndiocese.org