CANTON, OH [DOM] – His Eminence Archbishop Daniel of Chicago and the Midwest made his first visit to Holy Assumption Church, Canton, OH on February 24 and 25.
On Saturday the 24 of February, the Archbishop attended Great Vespers and visited with the community during a dinner held in his honor. On the following day, the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, Divine Liturgy was served. Joining His Eminence were Priest Aaron Rutz, Rector, Priest Esteban Vazques, Protodeacon Samuel Slimak, and Deacon Samson Nash.
The Archbishop said his time at the parish, “felt like coming home and being with family, which is exactly what we’re meant to be as Christians united in the Household of Faith.” He also praised the choir’s ability to “inspire with sophistication and beauty,” and to learn the intricacies of the hierarchical liturgy before the service.
“For a number of the faithful of Holy Assumption, this was their first experience of a Hierarchical visit,” said Fr. Aaron. “They were able to experience the worship of the Church in its fullness with the presence of both the Diocesan Bishop and two visiting Deacons.” A festive meal was held in the hall after liturgy.
In 1958, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Eastern Orthodox Church was incorporated as part of the Chicago diocese. The building to house the church, constructed in large part with the help of parishioners, was consecrated by Archbishop John of Chicago in 1960.
