The ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus, First Hieraarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia from 2001 to 2008, also abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery and rector of the seminary from 1976 to 2008, reposed on March 16, 2008.  It was under his leadership that the two parts of the Russian Church reconciled and joined in canonical union.

Our present First Hierarch, Metropolitan Nicholas, arrived the evening before to commemorate this anniversary.  His Eminence organized a meal of commemoration for the brethren and seminarians at lunch, after which he lead a pannikhida at the grave of Vladyka Laurus, joined by His Grace, Bishop Luke, the present abbot and rector as well as the monastery clergy who also served, with the singing of the brethren, seminarians and with many neighbors and pilgrims in attendance.

Vladyka Laurus during his long tenure as our abbot and rector made many improvements in the physical as well as the spiritual life of our community.  His gentle, humble personality attracted all those who had the blessing to know him.  He is sorely missed, and we can only hope that he is praying for us at the throne of God, Whom he so faithfully served his whole life.