A Letter of Welcome from His Eminence, Archbishop DANIEL
to the Newly-Illumined Members of the Orthodox Church in the Diocese of the Midwest
Holy Pascha
April 12, 2026
Beloved Sons and Daughters in the Lord,
Christ is Risen! Indeed He is risen!
With great joy and thanksgiving to Almighty God, I greet each of you who have recently been received into the Holy Orthodox Church in the Diocese of the Midwest. You have fully embraced the ancient faith that has been preserved in the Orthodox Church throughout the centuries, the faith transmitted to us by the Apostles themselves. Your entry into Christ’s Body is cause for celebration throughout our entire Diocese. You have taken a courageous and grace-filled step along the narrow path that leads to life, and we, your brothers and sisters in the Lord, rejoice that you now share fully in the life of the Holy Mysteries, the prayers, and the communion of the Church.
You now belong to a living tradition—the faith once delivered to the saints, kept alive through love, repentance, and the joy of the Resurrection. May your hearts remain open to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, who strengthens us in every good word and work, and Who will guide you ever more deeply into the mystery of life in Christ.
I also wish to express heartfelt gratitude to those who have accompanied you on this journey—your sponsors and catechists as well as all the clergy and faithful who have taught, prayed for, and encouraged and guided you. Their care and witness have been a true offering of love to the Lord and to His Church.
As your bishop, I assure you of my sincere welcome, prayers, and blessing. May you always find in our parishes places of refuge, peace, and growth. Continue steadfast in prayer, in participation in the Holy Mysteries, and in acts of mercy, that your light may shine before all, glorifying our Father in heaven.
With paternal love in Christ,
+DANIEL
Archbishop of Chicago and the Midwest
