MECHANICSBURG, PA [DOEPA]

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, the Feast of the Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, welcomed the faithful of its sister parish, Christ the Saviour Church in Harrisburg, PA, for the celebration of the solemn Divine Liturgy.

The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, Diocesan Vice-Chancellor, Dean of the Frackville Deanery, and Rector of Holy Apostles Church, with the Mitred Archpriest Nicholas Molodyko-Harris, and Archpriest Stephen Vernak, Rector of Christ the Saviour Church, concelebrating. Also serving were Deacons Peter Staller and John Shingara, together with parish and visiting altar servers.

The homily was offered by Father Stephen Vernak.

The commemoration, observed by the Church as a strict fast day, was marked by a spirit of prayerful solemnity. Through the appointed hymns and readings, the faithful reflected upon the martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist, his unwavering proclamation of the truth, and his call to repentance.

During the Divine Liturgy, prayers were also offered for Orthodox Christians who departed this life on the field of battle, customary for the Feast of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.

The faithful from both parishes joined together in prayer and partook of the Holy Mysteries.

The gathering continued the annual tradition of shared worship and fellowship between the neighboring East and West Shore communities, strengthening the bonds of faith and brotherly love that unite the two sister parishes.

Photo credit: Elijah Hojnicki

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office