Blessing of Frescoes at St Stephen's

On Sunday, October 12, 2014, His Grace Bishop Mitrophan blessed the completed frescoes of the St. Stephen the First Martyr Serbian Orthodox Church of Lackawanna, NY. The frescoes were painted from 2007 to 2013 by Fr. Theodore Jurewicz, who is well known for painting the beautiful Monastery New Gracanica Church and other churches. Since the frescoes were finished, the renovation of the temple was completed with the refinishing of the pews, and the installation of a new floor and carpet. 

Serving along with Bishop Mitrophan at the Divine Liturgy and Consecration of Frescoes were Fr. Rodney Torbic of Charmichaels, PA, who also gave the sermon, the local priest, Fr. Rastko Trbuhovich, Deacon Ljubisa Mitrovic of Cleveland, and Deacon (Dr.) Mark Hoeplinger of Buffalo. 

Bishop Mitrophan gave a message on the meaning of the frescoes for the parish at the program following the well-attended banquet. Guests at the banquet were local Orthodox clergy Fr. Herman Schick (OCA) and Fr. Yuriy Kasyanov (Ukranian). Guests from Monastery Marcha included Sister Anastasia and Nikola and Ann Boroto. The Program included the presentation by Milica Petrovic of her essay that won the National St. Nikolai of Zica Oratorical Festival this year, as well as a performance by the St. Stephen Jr. Dancers. Parish Council President Sofia Wuslich and Fr. Rastko offered remarks.

Source: Easter American Diocese