STROUDSBURG, PA [DOEPA]
From September 27-28, 2025, the 16th Sunday after Pentecost, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an Archpastoral Visit to Holy Trinity Church in Stroudsburg, PA.
On Saturday, September 27, upon arrival to the temple, His Eminence was warmly greeted by Priest Vjekoslav JoviÄić, Rector, along with several members of the parish community. Young girls from the parish also welcomed Archbishop Mark with flowers. Great Vespers was served by Father Vjekoslav, and His Eminence presided from the throne.
Following the service, His Eminence expressed gratitude for the warm and heartfelt welcome offered by the parish faithful. He reflected on the Matins Gospel, noting that every Sunday carries the joy of Pascha through its resurrectional tone. Father Vjekoslav, in turn, shared his own words of gratitude.
On Sunday, September 28, Archbishop Mark celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Father Vjekoslav concelebrating. The choir, under the direction of Matushka Masha Solak, offered the responses.
His Eminence offered the homily reminding the faithful that all are called to be disciples of Christ. We often wish to remain where we are comfortable, yet the Lord commands us to launch out into the deep. Reflecting on the Feast of the Elevation of the Cross, he recalled Christ’s words: "If anyone desires to follow Me, let them deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Me."
He pointed to the Cross as the ultimate sign of salvation, recalling the words of Christ, “It is finished,” which mark the fulfillment of all that was needed for our redemption. He also drew from the conversion of St. Paul, when the persecutor of Christians heard the Lord say, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” In this, His Eminence explained, we see that our trials are united with Christ Himself. Our suffering becomes a testimony to our faith and plays a crucial role in our salvation, for in bearing our cross we walk the same path as the Lord and enter into His life.
During the Divine Liturgy, the faithful partook of the Holy Mysteries.
Following the Dismissal, Archbishop Mark awarded Father Vjekoslav the right to wear the Gold Cross in recognition of his dedicated service to the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania. Axios!
His Eminence presented Archpriest Nicholas Solak, Director of Pastoral Life for the Orthodox Church in America, and Matushka Masha Solak with a Synodal Gramota in recognition of their dedicated labors in the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania and at Holy Trinity Church in Stroudsburg, PA. Although Father Nicholas was unable to be present, Archbishop Mark expressed his heartfelt gratitude for their faithful service. May God grant them many years!
After the veneration of the Cross, a meal was prepared and served next door in the church hall, where the faithful gathered for a time of fellowship. This offered the parishioners a chance to connect and spend time with His Eminence. The community was able to strengthen its bonds and share in the spirit of togetherness as Orthodox Christians.
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
