CHICAGO, IL [DOM] – A large and historical gathering brought together the Diocese of the Midwest and the Mid-America Diocese of the Russian Church Outside of Russia to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the repose of St. Tikhon of Moscow, Enlightener of North America. As previously announced, the feast was held on February 22, the uncovering of the saint’s relics, and was also historically significant as this was the first time that the two diocese worked together and celebrated for such an occasion.
His Eminence Archbishop Daniel of Chicago and the Midwest presided over the divine services and was joined by priests and deacons of the two diocese. The responses were sung antiphonally by the Virgin Mary Protection Cathedral Choir, under the direction of Michael Gill, and the Chicago Deanery Choir by Reader Philip Sokolov.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Daniel offered a homily on the efforts of St. Tikhon as the missionary of the North American continent.
Following the dismissal, the clergy and faithful enjoyed the hospitality of the two diocese at a festive meal. Prior to the meal, the Virgin Mary Protection Cathedral Choir sang a few musical pieces as part of the afternoon program.
