Feast Day of the Transfiguration in Mansonville

On the fore-feast Sunday as well as the Feast day of the Transfiguration, clergy and guests from North America gathered to serve in Mansonville. The vigil on Saturday was celebrated by father Andrew Hrycko of Toronto. The liturgy Sunday was celebrated by His Grace Archbishop Vladimir and clergy from Canada. During the hours, Alexander Polatos was tonsured a reader, then ordained sub-deacon. Alexander was blessed to serve as an acolyte some 20 years ago by Met. Vitaly, and bestowed the right to wear the orarion as a sub-deacon prior to marriage.

Following tradition after the service water was blessed at the monastery pond followed by a requiem at the graveyard. This was followed by an agape meal prepared by the sisterhood.

It must be noted that this year’s celebration also saw the completion of many improvements to the Monastery including roofing, painting and repair of icons. This was all the labor of clergy and faithful from the St. Seraphim of Sarov Church and that of All Saints; with work on the gilding of the domes being contracted.

While labor was largely donated, the materials were not. To this end the foresight of Met. Vitaly allowed for the surrounding forest to be harvested recently, with the proceeds helping towards the costs. These costs were also covered by some of the faithful who, while not wealthy, love the Church.

Exactly 30 years ago, the Skete at Mansonville hosted the Holy Synod under Saint Met. Philaret.  May God allow that the next generation will also care for the upkeep and wellbeing of this Skete.

Let us thank Our Lord for His great Mercy, and pray He will not leave us in our works and struggles both spiritual and physical.