Holiness is not just righteousness

The traditional celebration of memory of St. John the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Shanghai and San Francisco took place on Sunday, July 3 in the church of St. Sergius of Radonezh.

On Sunday morning the Divine Liturgy was celebrated and led by Protopresbyter Grigoriy Kotliaroff, who was co-served by Deacon Grigoriy Akselrod.

In the parish of St. Sergius of Radonezh it is customary to celebrate Serbian “slava” in memory of St. John. After
the end of Liturgy a festive moleben was served in front of the icon of Vladyka John, and, according to the annual tradition, Serbian kalach, kutya and red wine were blessed.

The celebration in honor of the venerated saint was attended by parishioners not only from the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh, but also from the Church of the Assumption of Mother of God in Richmond Hill and the Holy Trinity Church in Astoria, as well as Serbian guests.
The feast continued with a charity meal and a wonderful concert prepared by adults and children.

Holy Vladyka John, pray to God for us!