MADISON, IL [DOM] – From Tuesday, June 2, to Thursday, June 4, clergy and their families from the Kansas City Deanery came together at Nativity of the Virgin Mary Church in Madison, IL, to support each other and pray during the divine services. This wonderful gathering was generously supported by Holy Archangels Orthodox Christian Retreat Center.
On Wednesday afternoon, His Eminence Archbishop Daniel of Chicago and the Diocese of the Midwest shared many stories about the growth and vibrancy happening throughout the diocese. Archpriest Timothy Sawchak, Dean, then welcomed the clergy wives to share their experiences of life at the parish, especially as all the parishes are seeing such significant growth. That evening, everyone joined together for Vespers in the church.
On Thursday morning during the Divine Liturgy, His Eminence presented awards to several priests. Priest Joel Wilson and Priest Anthony Roeber were elevated to rank of Archpriest. Archpriest Justin Mathews received the Palitza. Priest Basil Ferguson received the Gold Cross. Priest Matthew McDonald received the Kamilavka.
Photos of the gathering can be viewed in the Google Photo album here.
