The Great Feast of the Ascension of the Lord, the patronal feast of Holy Ascension Russian Orthodox Church, was marked on June 2, 2022, with His Eminence Archbishop Kyrill presiding over the festivities.

Concelebrating with His Eminence were the Father Rector, Archpriest Paul Volmensky, Archpriest Michael Boyle, Priest Philip Plowman and Priest Elijah Drake (Wu). Archdeacon Peter (Karakozoff), Deacon Nicholas Stoltz, Deacon Paul Kozachenko, and Deacon Seraphim Torruella concelebrated as well.

"The Rite of the Lesser Blessing of the Waters" was performed at 8:00 am and shortly thereafter the parishioners and guests of Holy Ascension Church greeted His Eminence Archbishop Kyriill at 9:30 am. Approximately 50 of the faithful received Holy Communion and after the sermon delivered by Archbishop Kyrill, a procession around the church took place with the appointed Gospel reading recited in the yard between the church and the church hall.

During the Small Entrance of the Divine Liturgy our senior deacon, Father Nicholas Stoltz, was awarded the right to wear the double orarion. Axios!

American River Provisions, operated by Vacily and Theodore Gibanov, provided the meal for both the bishop’s table in the church hall and for all the parishioners in the churchyard, where in the shade of the trees and tents parishioners and guests were able to enjoy delicious food and company.

Many thanks go out to the clergy and acolytes, the choir conductor, Ludmila Morry, the choir, and all of those who labored in preparation for the Feast by cleaning the church, setting up the hall, and grounds, serving tables during the meal and cleaning up afterward.

May Holy Ascension Russian Orthodox Church continue to stand by God’s providential care and protection, as the clergy and faithful continue with as much precision as possible to live by the Gospel Commandments.