GLEN MILLS, PA [DOEPA]
From May 2-3, 2026, the Fourth Sunday of Holy Pascha, the Sunday of the Paralytic, His Eminence Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania made an archpastoral visit to St. Herman of Alaska Church in Glen Mills, PA, where he presided at the divine services, performed an ordination to the Holy Diaconate, and offered archpastoral guidance to the faithful during the Paschal season.
Founded in 1973 by a group of dedicated Orthodox Christians seeking to establish an Orthodox presence in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, St. Herman of Alaska Church has grown into a vibrant parish community serving the faithful of Delaware and Chester Counties. The parish celebrated its first Divine Liturgy on September 30, 1973 at the Episcopal Church of the Atonement in Morton, PA, before later establishing its first permanent home in Wallingford, PA. In 1993, the parish acquired its current property in Gradyville, where the present temple, inspired by the architecture of Alaskan Orthodox churches associated with St. Herman, was consecrated on June 18, 1995, by His Eminence Archbishop Herman [Swaiko] (+9/6/22) and His Eminence Archbishop Gregory [Afonsky] (+4/15/08).
On Saturday, May 2, His Eminence Archbishop Mark arrived at the temple and was warmly greeted by Archpriest Paul Fetsko, Rector, together with members of the parish community. Great Vespers was served by Father Paul with Deacon Gregory Hubiak. His Eminence presided from the throne. Following Great Vespers, Father Paul welcomed Archbishop Mark on behalf of the parish community and expressed sincere gratitude for his archpastoral visit and prayers. In response, Archbishop Mark thanked the clergy and faithful for their warm hospitality and prayerful reception, offering words of spiritual encouragement in preparation for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy.
A festive meal was prepared and served in the Church hall following the service.
On Sunday, May 3, upon his arrival, the Church bells were rung as His Eminence was greeted by young girls bearing flowers and the traditional bread and salt. Archbishop Mark presided at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Concelebrating with him were Archpriest Paul Fetsko, Archpriest John Perich, Archpriest John Oleynik, and Priest Joseph Toroney with Protodeacon Peter Skoog, cleric of Holy Trinity Church in Pottstown, PA, and Deacons Gregory Hubiak and Steven Orr. The choir led the responses under the direction of Reader Alexander Hubiak.
His Eminence offered the homily on the importance of offering the gifts we have back to the Church, noting that the diaconate serves as a living example of faithful service and the offering of one’s talents for the glory of God and the building up of the Church. He reminded the faithful that each person has been entrusted with unique gifts by God and is called to use them in service to Christ and His Holy Church. Reflecting on the ordination that had just taken place, His Eminence spoke of the diaconate as a ministry of sacrifice, humility, and love for both God and neighbor.
After the Eucharistic Canon, His Eminence ordained Subdeacon Alexander Nescott to the diaconate. The newly ordained Deacon Alexander, having completed the St. Tikhon's Diaconal Formation Program in Philadelphia, PA, will fulfill his service at St. Herman of Alaska Church. Axios!
Many of the faithful approached to receive the Holy Eucharist.
Following the dismissal, Archbishop Mark offered an archpastoral word to the faithful. Father Paul, on behalf of the parish community, expressed sincere gratitude for His Eminence’s visit, noting the joy and blessing of welcoming him for this festal occasion and for the ordination of Alexander Nescott to the Holy Diaconate. In his remarks, Archbishop Mark offered words of spiritual encouragement to all gathered at St. Herman of Alaska Church and expressed particular joy at witnessing the continued growth and vitality of the parish community during the radiant season of Pascha.
After the veneration of the Cross, a festive banquet was prepared and served at Media's Towne House. Remarks were offered by His Eminence, Father Paul, and the newly-ordained Deacon Alexander. Archbishop Mark once again extended his congratulations to Deacon Alexander, Matushka Erin, and their daughter, Maeve, on this joyous occasion. The afternoon concluded with warm fellowship among the clergy, faithful, family members, and guests gathered for the celebration.
Photo credit: Subdeacon John Pusey, Sofia Ringe, and others
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
