CLEVELAND, OH [DOM] – The historic cathedral in Cleveland, St. Theodosius Cathedral, celebrated the feast of their heavenly patron, St. Theodosius, Wonderworker of Chernigov this past weekend, Friday, September 9, through Sunday, September 11. This important feast for the cathedral community was marked by the archpastoral visit of His Grace Bishop Daniel of Chicago and the Midwest.
Divine Liturgy was held on Friday, September 9, the translation of the relics of St. Theodosius, and was led by the Cathedral Dean, Priest Ján Čižmár, and concelebrating with him was Priest Alexander Koranda, Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral. Fr. Ján offered a reflection on the life of St. Theodosius after the liturgy highlighting the saint’s attention to the good order of the divine services. He reminded those gathered of the importance of this being at the center of community life above all else.
Great Vespers were held Saturday evening where His Grace was welcomed, commemorating his first visit as Diocesan Hierarch to the cathedral, and Cleveland.
On Sunday morning Bishop Daniel entered the cathedral and was greeted by the clergy and the faithful. Serving with the Bishop of Chicago were Priest Ján Čižmár, Archpriest Basil Stoyka, Archpriest John Adamcio, Archpriest Alexander Garklavs, Archpriest John Zdinak, Priest Alexander Koranda, and Protodeacon Samuel Slimak. The homily was offered by Bishop Daniel.
At the Little Entrance, Fr. Ján received the nabedrennik, and kamilavka as Diocesan Awards, and awarded the Gold Cross on behalf of the Synod of the Orthodox Church in America. Upon bestowing these priestly awards, the Bishop expressed his gratitude for Fr. Ján’s work, but also mentioned that these awards are in anticipation for the continued good work and labors that will be accomplished.
During the divine services, Bishop Daniel remembered those who lost their life in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, His Grace greeted the cathedral community congratulating them on their parish feast and recalled visiting the parish as a priest, and his excitement to now serve the community as their hierarch. Fr. Ján welcomed His Grace, and all were invited to a festive meal in the parish hall.
