This past weekend in the monastery had many grace-filled blessings. His Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel brought us the reliquary from Synod, containing the right hand of the New Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth and a relic of her co-struggler the New Martyr Barbara. Vladyka was traveling to his diocese in Canada an desired to bless us with the opportunity to venerate these holy relics.
Several groups made pilgrimages to the monastery this weekend and thus were able to also participate in the veneration of the relics. Friday evening, after Great Compline, His Grace, Bishop Luke, Abbot of the monastery, together with monastery clergy, served a moleben of intercession. The church was filled with the brethren, seminarians, neighbors and pilgrims. The following morning, Vladyka Gabriel departed for his diocese with the relics.
Many other pilgrims arrived on Saturday, including a large church youth group, under the leadership of Priest Alexei Klar. In the morning, they assisted in monastery obediences. After lunch, they had a tour of the monastery and museum. Together with this group there was a pilgrimage from Connecticut with their pastor Fr. Dimitry Jakimowicz.
It is an ancient tradition for Orthodox faithful to make pilgrimages to monasteries, especially during Great Lent. This year a large increase in pilgrims has been noted. We welcome this and pray that our pilgrims receive spiritual strength and inspiration during they stay with us.
Over the weekend over 200 people received the mysteries of Confession and Holy Communion.
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