ROCHESTER HILLS, MI [DOM] – The Archbishop of Chicago and the Diocese of the Midwest made his first pastoral visit to St Mark Church, Rochester Hills, MI this past weekend, February 18 & 19.
Meeting with Archpriest John Baker, His Eminence Archbishop Daniel was given a tour of the church, was informed of the history of the community and learned of the vision for building upon the good work laid before Fr John’s arrival in 2021. His Eminence visited “The Atrium” for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, which is part of the vision implemented this past year for the education of the youngest of the parish children.
Before holding a talk on Saturday before Vespers, His Eminence was able to meet with several catechumens of the parish, learning of their particular journeys to the Orthodox Christian Church while they in turn were able to ask questions of His Eminence.
Before Vespers His Eminence spoke on the Role of the Bishop within the Church and also shared his own story which led to him becoming the Archbishop of Chicago and the Midwest. Following Vespers, His Eminence attended an informal gathering for food and fellowship where he was able to spend time with the youth of the parish.
The culmination of the visit to the parish was on Sunday for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy where the faithful were able to gather around their Archpastor for the first time. A banquet in honor of His Eminence took place in the parish hall following the conclusion of the Liturgy.
