The faithful of Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral celebrated Zacchaeus Sunday with a special visit from the Myrrh Streaming Icon of the Mother of God, "Kardiotissa, The Tender Heart". Pictured with the Icon is Mr. Joseph Matteo from St. George's Orthodox Church in Taylor, PA  who brought it to us for today's service. The Icon was venerated by our faithful and brought spiritual comfort to all those present.
 A teaching was also given from the book "Great Lent, Journey to Pascha", written by Fr. Alexander Schmemman, former Dean and Professor of St. Valdimir's Orthodox Seminary.  Quotes were taken that stressed the importance of our frequent participation in the Mysteries of the Church, especially Holy Communion and Confession. It was similar to a presentation shared last week by Mother Christophora of Elwood City during this year's Diocesan Assembly in Bethlehem, PA. They both touched on the need for spiritual enlightenment by moving away from the former practice of once a year Communion and Confession into a daily living relationship with Christ. It should also be noted that Mr. Matteo generously donated a full size replica of the same icon to the Cathedral.  Many faithful make a pilgrimage to St. George throughout the year to be anointed with the Myrrh as they pray for physical and most importantly spiritual healing. The Icon will be at St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Monastery near Roscoe, NY to celebrate the Feast of The Meeting of the Lord in the Temple.