Spiritual Joy in Lorain

In following the example of Saint Basil the Great, wherein monks come from the deserts to cities, likewise our bishop has also blessed the parish in Lorain to be led by Hieromonk Nektarije (Tesanovic). This proved to be blessed and fruitful as several non-Orthodox residents of Lorain have been baptized into the Orthodox Church.

The most recent, which is truly a joy for our parish, is the baptism of the eminent Dr. Helen Kim, a native of South Korea, who arrived in America two years ago with her husband, who has previously been baptized as well. On August 15, 2021, during the Divine Liturgy in the church of St. George in Lorain, Father Nektarije, together with Deacon Theodore Sokolovic from Chicago, performed the baptism of Dr. Helen, during which she received her name after the Holy Empress Helen. The entire parish community took part in this magnificent service as they rejoiced in the new member of their spiritual family.

In his sermon, Hieromonk Nektarije, addressed the newly baptized Dr. Helen as he spoke about the significance of the Holy Mystery of Baptism as well as about the joy of the whole of Orthodoxy when it receives a new member of the Church. Upon the conclusion of Divine Liturgy, all those present gathered in the church hall to continue rejoicing on this wonderful occasion. Indeed, everything was pleasing to God. Glory be to the Lord God for this day and this gift!

Source: Eastern American Diocese