Some of the twelve great feasts of the Church come in pairs. Nativity followed by Theophany; so also is the case with the feasts of the Nativity of the Theotokos and the Exaltaton of the Cross.
Feast of the Opening of the Relics of Saint Job of Pochaev - 09/10/24
In a recent posting, the monastery’s “All-People’s” celebration of the memory of the Venerable Job, Abbot and Wonderworker of Pochaev every year on Labor Day weekend was described. The actual feast day, August 28 (Sept. 10, new calendar) is also celebrated, as the patronal feast of our lower church. The All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy was celebrated by our abbot-bishop, His Grace Luke together with the monastery clergy also my with the local faithful as well as many pilgrims who are always in attendance on monastery feast days. The new school year has started, so our seminarians, both old and new were participating.
People's Celebration of the Memory of Saint Job of Pochaev and the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God - 09/01/24
It has been the tradition of the Holy Monastery to take advantage of the long Labor Day weekend for the spiritual benefit of the faithful, by holding an All-People’s celebration of the memory of St. Job of Pochaev together with the Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
he traditions of the monastery in large part hark back to the Pochaev Monastery in Volynia, Ukraine, a great center of Orthodoxy and missionary work in defense of our holy faith from the times of its first abbot, the Venerable St. Job. Known for his printing efforts in defense of the faith against the inroads of Uniatism in the southwestern part of Holy Rus,” the monastery founded by Archimandrite Vitaly Maximenko, later Archbishop in North America and abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery and first Rector of the Holy Trinity Seminary, in Slovakia, was consecrated to his memory. Under his protection, the monastery continued the printing efforts of the famous printing presses of Pochaev both for the Church Abroad as well as smuggling literature into the Soviet Union, during the seventy-year communist persecution of the Church.
An exact copy of the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Pochaev was gifted by the brotherhood in Pochaev to the monastery in Slovakia, and from there was taken into exile with the brotherhood during World War II, eventually finding its way to the New World. At first the icon was kept in a cathedral in the Bronx, later being brought to stay in Holy Trinity Monastery. From those times, it became the tradition to hold a Meeting of the Icon on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, a time when hundreds of pilgrims, taking advantage of the civil holiday, made their way to the monastery. Many of these pilgrims came from what is now known as Ukraine and were familiar with St. Job, the Pochaev monastery and its miraculous icon of the Theotokos.
We continue these traditions until this day, having a meeting of the Icon at 3PM, followed by a moleben to the Mother of God and St. Job with an Akathist to St. Job, before the Vigil service Saturday evening.
Once again, our shores have filled with many immigrants from the Ukrainian land. And thus, the desire to especially pray to St. Job and the Pochaev Icon continue to be relevant to us, especially in light of what is going on in Ukraine in our days.
On the Sunday itself, besides an early liturgy in the basement church of St. Job, His Grace, Bishop Luke, abbot of the monastery, together with monastery clergy and guests, served a hierarchal liturgy at 9AM in the cathedral, followed by a moleben with a procession around the cathedral with the icons of St. Job and our copy of the Pochaev Icon, which is held by many of the faithful to be miraculous, having received cures of spiritual and medical problems from it.
At the end of the service, the traditional monastery trapeza was open to all of the pilgrims. Again, on Labor Day itself, Vladyka served a hierarchal liturgy. After the noon-day meal, His Grace, along with the monastery clergy, served a general pannikhida for members of the brotherhood, whose anniversaries of death were in recent days, including the every-memorable Metropolitan Laurus. And thus concluded our celebration.
Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos - 08/28/24
The Feast of the Dormition falls closely with the monastery’s “People’s” feast of the Pochaev Icon and St. Job, Abbot and Wonderworker of Pochaev, celebrated for convenience’s sake on Labor Day weekend, as this usually falls within the afterfeast.
The burial service was observed in many cathedrals and monasteries in Russia. Here in our monastery this service was done many years ago. With the generous gift of a beautiful shroud of the Mother of God, from Vladyka Nicholas, who became our First Hierarch, Vladyka Luke decided to renew this observance for the spiritual benefit of our community.
The Rite of Consecration of Antimins Celebrated at Holy Trinity Monastery - 08/25/24
On Sunday, August 12/25, 2024, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada presided over the Rite of Consecration of Antimins, concelebrating with Bishop Luke of Syracuse. The Antimins (also known as “antimension”) is a rectangular cloth depicting the burial of our Lord Jesus Christ, on top of which the Holy Mysteries are consecrated. The Antimins contain relics of martyrs, in remembrance of the persecuted Church of ancient times, where Liturgy was often celebrated using a tomb of a martyr as an Altar table.
Concerning continual persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church - 08/24/24
August 24, 2024
Ever since the beginning of hostilities between Ukraine and Russia, we have prayed in our services for peace between these two countries, whose origins hail back to ancient Kievan Rus’ The Ukrainian Orthodox Church is recognized by most of the brother Orthodox Churches as the only canonical Orthodox Church in Ukraine. Sadly, Patriarch Bartholomew has created a separate church in Ukraine, which has caused a grievous schism. Nevertheless, the majority of the Orthodox remain faithful to their mother Church, despite ongoing persecution. People of ill-will interrupt services, attack elderly women, and have brutally taken over churches and in some instances, injured clergy and faithful laity.
In the midst of the Dormition fast, we have the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord on Mount Tabor. All the altar coverings are changed from Lenten red to bright white, symbolizing the bright light given off by our Lord on Mount Tabor as seen by the holy apostles, Peter, James and John and the unseen light as experience as much as possible by them.
In the month of August there are three feasts of the Lord, besides the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God. In Russian popular parlance, the first feast, the “First Saviour” is the feast of the Procession of the Life-Giving Cross. This is also the feast of the Maccabean Martyrs. On this day, in the Russian Church, it is traditional to bless holy water, as according to tradition this is about the time of the Baptism of ancient Rus’. On this day it is also traditional to give out blessed honey.
AN EXPRESSION OF LIBERTY OR A SATANIC BALL? By Metropolitan Siluan of Australia and New Zealand of the Serbian Orthodox Church - 07/30/24
The opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic games in Paris was a vivid and most emphatic manifestation of what spirit has descended among men. Many people from across the world were left shocked, scandalised, and in disbelief watching what was unravelling before their eyes. This global event that gathers all nations from across the globe, this 'opening' - expressed in an unequivocal way the inauguration or affirmation of a 'new world order' which is antithetical to God's order, an open declaration of who it serves, i.e, who its 'master' is, and who it battles against. This 'ceremony' was nothing less than a satanic assembly, very dark and very telling of the spiritual state the world is cataclysmically spiralling into. This worldly 'state of affairs' is nothing new for Orthodox Christians.
Feast of the Equal to the Apostles Grand Princess Olga at Quick to Hear Convent - 07/24/24
On the Feast of the Equal to the Apostles Grand Princess Olga, Bishop Luke served the Vigil and Liturgy at the convent of Quick to Hear. St. Olga is the second patron of the Convent and of their craft shop.
The fast of the Apostles culminated with the feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul on July 12th (N.S.) With the attendance of many pilgrims in addition to the “summer youth,” 25 of whom are presently here, and of course the brotherhood, His Grace Bishop Luke celebrated the divine services.
Praise be to God that the brethren of Holy Trinity Monastery were able to once again celebrate the patronal feast of the monastery in the traditional way, with three days of solemn services.
Forty days after Pascha, the feast of feasts, the Church celebrates one of the twelve main feasts of the Church, the Ascension of our Lord into Heaven. This is a great feast in that we celebrate that the Lord Jesus Christ took our human nature which he divinized and took it to Heaven to sit at the right hand of His Father.
Open Letter to Bulgarian Bishops by Metropolitan Luke of Zaporozhye and Melitopol - 06/11/24
Dear brothers in Christ and fellow intercessors before the Throne of God!
Christ is Risen!
Our Universal Church is now passing through difficult times. The canons have been flagrantly violated, a deliberate and brazen legalization of the schism has taken place, and the scale of the destruction of pan-Orthodox unity is increasing.
Bishop Luke Serves at the Saint Luke the Blessed Surgeon Church in Florida - 06/02/24
On June 2, the Fifth Sunday after Pascha, that of the Samaritan Woman, His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Luke of Syracuse, performed an archpastoral visit to St. Luke the Blessed Surgeon Church in Pompano Beach, FL. With the blessing of parish rector, Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America & New York, the celebration of the parish’s patronal feast of the Holy Hierarch Luke of Simferopol (June 11) was transferred to that day.
Anniversary of the Repose of Metropolitan Hilarion - 05/16/24
On May 17, the monastery observed the 2nd anniversary of the repose of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Hilarion, whose body is buried in the brotherhood cemetery of the monastery. For the brethren it is a great consolation to have with us one who was a graduate of our Seminary and then one of our hieromonks and spiritual father to many of us.
It was God’s will that Vladyka Hilarion, who was himself a cell attendant of the ever-memorable Archbishop Averky, would become a bishop of our church and eventually its First Hierarch, succeeding another member of our brotherhood, Metropolitan Laurus.
On this day, our present First Hierarch, another graduate of our Seminary, Metropolitan Nicholas, provided for a commemorative meal at the monastery trapeza. This was followed by a pannikhida at the grave of Vladyka Hilarion, served by our present abbot, Bishop Luke, also a graduate of our Seminary. May the memory of Vladyka Hilarion be eternal, and may he rest among the saints.
All of Bright Week, it is like one day of Pascha. The Church celebrates the great joy of the Lord’s Resurrection, His victory over death. For this reason, it is considered out of place to hold memorials for the dead since all of our attention is directed to the conquering of death.
As it is everywhere in the Orthodox world, Pascha is the feast of feasts. Perhaps due to the Great Lenten atmosphere in the monastery, where all revolves around the Lenten services, the strict fasting, and this year the unprecedented great flow of pilgrims every weekend during Lent, the buildup of anticipation of Paschal joy is significant. This is especially felt during Holy Week.
Holy Week is very special in our monastery, as are all of the festal services. They are served in their completeness and with great solemnity. Perhaps this is also due to the atmosphere kept in the monastery, where the fast is strictly kept, and there is not the distraction of the “World.”
Palm Sunday is a most glorious holy day on the eve of Holy Week. According to tradition, the children of Israel with great joy greeted He Whom they hoped would free them from the Romans. They had a worldly understanding of His coming to the Holy City, after raising Lazarus from the dead. Within a short time, these same people would shout “Crucify Him, crucify Him.”
Repose and Funeral of Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk - 04/15/24
Fr. Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk was one of those rare people who combined within himself a very skillful way of serving at the divine services with a very humble and amicable character. He served very carefully and also prayerfully. And he loved to serve at all opportunities. The older brethren of the monastery remember how for over 50 years he would spend all of his free time serving in the monastery for the special days of commemorating the dead, and who can forget his awesome voice, serving at the festal services of Pascha, Holy Nativity, Pentecost as well as the very special Holy Week services?
Monday April 15 Funeral of Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk - 04/12/24
Monday, April 15
12:00 PM – Memorial repast at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, followed by funeral and burial.
Color of vestments for funeral: violet
On the morning of Thursday, April 11, after a lengthy illness, Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk (longtime cleric of St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Church in Utica, NY; since 2021 – of Holy Epiphany Church in Roslindale (Boston), MA) reposed in the Lord. He was 81 years old.
Having graduated Holy Trinity Seminary in Jordanville, NY, Fr. Joseph was ordained to the diaconate in June 1969 by Archbishop Averky (Taushev; +1976) of Syracuse & Holy Trinity. He was elevated to the rank of protodeacon by Bishop Laurus (Škurla; +2008) of Syracuse & Holy Trinity on September 16, 1976. On September 14, 1985, he was awarded the right to wear the kamilavka. He often accompanied the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus on his archpastoral and official visits. Throughout the years, he was given various awards by the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian Church Abroad. On Sunday, February 14, 2021, he was awarded a gramota from the Synod of Bishops.
Despite recurring illnesses, Fr. Joseph showed his dedication and love for the divine services, and served as often as he was able. He is survived by his Matushka Irina, their four children, including Protodeacon Alexander Jarostchuk, and many grandchildren.
2024 Great Lenten Diocesan Clergy Retreat - 04/10/24
The annual Great Lenten northern American diocesan clergy retreat was held at Holy Trinity Monastery. Over 70 priests and deacons traveled to the Monastery to participate in the gathering on April 10 and 11. Seminarians were also invited to take part. Russian Church Abroad church traditions and other pastoral important issues were discussed on Tuesday. Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, all attended the Great Lenten services in the monastery cathedral, culminating in the hierarchal celebration of the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.
Veneration of the Cross and Annunciation of the Theotokos - 04/07/24
This year, the feast of the Annunciation coincided with the Sunday of the Veneration of the Cross. The feast, of course, happens at a fixed date, and so, from year to year, depending on what day it falls, it is always interesting to see the commination. The hymns of this feast, celebrating the incarnation of the Son of God, go along very well with those of adoration of the Son of God’s Life-giving Cross. The adoration of the Cross gives us the strength to continue our Lenten podvig and helps us concentrate on where we are going with our Great Lenten feat of prayers and fasting. The feast day of the Holy Theotokos, bursts forth with joy during this somber time of year.
Second Weekend of Great Lent in the Monastery - 03/30/24
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.
Right Hand of Saint Elizabeth the New Martyr in Jordanville March 29 - 30 - 03/28/24
The right hand of Grand Duchess Elizabeth the New Martyr will arrive in Jordanville on the evening of March 29. After Compline there will be a moleben served and the relics will depart Saturday early morning March 30.
Clean Week and Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy - 03/24/24
Once again, the Lord has blessed us at Holy Trinity Monastery to be able to “retreat” for a week in prayer and strict fasting to attempt to renew ourselves spiritually. On Forgiveness Sunday, Great Vespers was celebrated at 3PM, celebrated by His Grace Bishop Luke, together with the clergy assigned to the monastery. After the Great Prokeimenon, the service reverted to a simple Great Lenten service as the covers on the analogions were changed to black from gold. In the evening, after trapeza, Small Compline was served, ending with a sermon by our Abbot. Upon finishing his sermon, Vladyka asked forgiveness of us, and thereupon, all those present, monastics, clergy, seminarians and neighbors asked forgiveness one of another as we venerated the icons.
"The Russian Orthodox Diocese of Sitka and Alaska held its annual clergy retreat in Anchorage from Friday March 8th through Sunday, March 10th hosted by His Grace ALEXEI, Bishop of Sitka and Alaska. As a special guest, His Grace LUKE, Bishop of Syracuse and Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, led our retreat meditations, speaking on the theme “Confessing Holy Orthodoxy.” The retreat commenced with a solemn and joyful All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy served at Saint Tikhon’s Russian Orthodox Church in South Anchorage. The resplendent service included a universal memorial for all the Orthodox Faithful departed. Vladyka Alexei offered fervent prayers and blessed koliva for the departed in anticipation of the Sunday of the Last Judgment.
Anniversary of the Repose of Metropolitan Laurus - 03/16/24
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.
Pannikhida for Metropolitan Laurus March 16 2024 - 03/15/24
A pannikhida for Metropolitan Laurus will be served by Metropolitan Nicholas and Bishop Luke on March 16, 2024 after lunch on the anniversary of his repose.
Depending upon the date of the beginning of Great Lent, this feast has a longer or shorter afterfeast. Since this year Pascha is late, the afterfeast lasts a full week.
On February 12 (New Calendar) the Church celebrates the memory of Saints Basil the Great, John Chrysostom and Gregory the Theologian. This feast was established to end the controversy over who among these holy fathers was the greatest. In other words, the Church wants to emphasize that they are all equal in honor and piety and importance for the Church.
The Royal Hours for the feast were served at 8 AM Thursday morning. After a brief rest, there was the Meeting of the Bishop at 9:45, vesting, and then promptly the Vespers Liturgy of St. Basil was started. During the Old Testament readings, the clergy chanted the praises antiphonally with the choir. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, there was the Great Blessing of Water. The clergy, followed by the faithful, processed to the bell tower for this ceremony. Vladyka poured some water from the Jordan River into the fount. As Vladyka lowered the Cross into the water of the baptistry fount, all the bells of the bell tower pealed. Then all returned to the church as the bishop blessed with holy water the church, including the altar. The liturgy concluded with the Many Years.
Holy Nativity in Holy Trinity Monastery - 01/07/24
The feast of the Holy Nativity is celebrated with great solemnity in our monastery.
During the fore feast, all of the monastery and seminary buildings are thoroughly cleaned. Every evening, at Compline, a special canon is read to prepare us for the upcoming feast.
Feast of the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple - 12/04/23
On November 21/ December 4, the Holy Church celebrates the feast of the Theotokos Into the Temple, one of the twelve great feasts of the Church.
One of the remarkable features of this feast is that for the first time, we hear the Irmosoi of the Nativity sung in church, as katavasia on feast days. Thus the Church gradually accustoms us to the coming of this wonderful holy day.
What made this feast more joyful this year, was that Vladyka, with the blessing of Metropolitan Nicholas and the Synod, awarded our Seminary professor, Father John Boddecker, with the gold cross, for his service to the Seminary and the monastery.
Also, the missionary priest in Grenada, Hieromonk Ambrose, was awarded with the nabedrinik. Fr. Ambrose is spending some time in the monastery to practice serving and to have a spiritual rest from his labors.
Congratulations to both these laborers in the Lord’s vineyard.
On November 21 (8th Old Style), is held the feast of the Archangel Michael and all of the Bodiless Hosts. His Grace Bishop Luke concelebrated the divine liturgy together with the monastery clergy on the feast day itself after the All-Night Vigil served the evening before.
As this is also the anniversary of the repose of the every-memorable Metropolitan Philaret, the third First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, as has become traditional, a litya was served at the end of the divine liturgy for his blessed repose.
VISIT OF NUN HILARIA TO THE MONASTERY FROM THE ST. ELIZABETH THE GRAND DUCHESS CONVENT OF MINSK, BELARUS - 11/16/23
Mother Hilaria from the Convent of the Holy New Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth Convnet of Minsk, Belarus, visited our monastery more than a week ago.
Mother Hilaria in her talk described how the convent lives and functions. It is amazing the social work that they carry on, for the poor, the sick, prisoners, and all kinds of people who cannot live without support. In this they try to emulate their patron saint, the Venerable Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth.
The convent has both traditional nuns with obediences and daily cycle of services. They pray for people all over the world. They also have lay sisters who take care of the needy in several asylums. Their workshops are known for their handiwork and its high quality. There are over one hundred nuns and about the same number of lay sisters.
After Mother Hilaria’s very informative talk, there was a question and answer time with refreshments served.
Mother Ilaria giving presentation of life and work of sisters at Saint Elisabeth Convent in Minsk- Thursday November 16, 5pm - 11/16/23
Announcement:
Mother Ilaria from Saint Elisabeth Convent in Minsk will give a presentation in the Seminary Hall on Thursday November 16 at 5PM and Sunday November 19 at 5PM about the life and work of the sisters.
The presentation is open to everyone.
A short 10 minute film will be shown followed by discussion and questions.
Liturgy of Apostle James, Brother of the Lord - 11/05/23
October 23/ November 5 (NS) is the day of the commemoration of the holy Apostle James, Brother of the Lord in the flesh. It has been the tradition on this day to serve the ancient Liturgy of the Apostle James, ever since the fathers of our church revived this liturgy in the Russian Church Abroad.
Special Commemoration of the Late Metropolitan Hilarion - 11/03/23
October 21 (Nov. 4 O.S.) is the day of the commemoration of the Venerable Hilarion of the Kiev Caves. This was the Name’s Day of our ever-memorable Metropolitan Hilarion. His Eminence, Metropolitan Nicholas came from New York to serve the Divine Liturgy on this day. His Grace Bishop Luke along with the monastery clergy concelebrated with the Metropolitan.
The abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery and rector of Holy Trinity Seminary, His Grace Bishop Luke celebrated his Name’s Day on Tuesday, October 31, the day of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke.
Since the horrific murder of Brother Jose Munoz in 1997, it has been traditional for the parish of St. John the Baptist in Washington, DC to organize a pilgrimage to the monastery to commemorate this servant of God and his heroic feat of being caretaker of the Myrrh-Streaming icon of Iveron of Montreal.
Talk by Mother Maria from Bethany - Monday October 23, 5PM - 10/16/23
If all goes according to plan, we will host a talk by Mother Maria from Bethany, in the Holy Land. All seminarians, wives and guests will be invited! This event would be optional for seminarians.
DATE AND TIME: Monday, October 23, about 5pm
PLACE: In the Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov Seminary Hall
Feast of the Protection of the Theotokos - 10/14/23
A uniquely great feast in the Russian Orthodox Church is the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos. In other local Orthodox churches, this feast is considered a minor feast, but the Russian Orthodox celebrate this feast as if it were one of the great feasts in honor of the Mother of God, to whom Russia has always been especially dedicated.
Synaxis of the Holy Fathers of the Kiev Caves - 10/11/23
On September 28 (October 11 New Style), the Church celebrates the memory of the Venerable Fathers and God-pleasers of the Kiev Caves Monastery, reposing in the Near Caves.
During World War II, the Dormition Cathedral of the monastery was blown up by the Soviets. Fortunately, before this, many valuable holy things were saved from destruction, and after the war, a large tabernacle of relics from the Kiev Caves Lavra was gifted to the monastery by refugee fathers from the monastery. One of the first decisions made by Vladyka Luke, when becoming abbot of the monastery in 2008 ,was to establish a feast in the monastery of the Kiev Caves Fathers.
STATEMENT ON RECENT EVENTS AT HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX SEMINARY - 09/30/23
On the morning of Thursday, September 28, 2023, the Seminary administration discovered an anonymous electronic communication which made the claim that there was a bomb placed in the Seminary. The communication made the claim that a bomb was left because of “Russian atrocities in Ukraine.” The administration made an immediate risk assessment and contacted NY State Police, who advised to evacuate the buildings. The administration then cleared the Seminary and monastery buildings. The NY State Police quickly brought in troopers, investigators, a K-9 unit, and an officer from the computer crimes unit. The Richfield Springs Fire chief and EMS came and remained on standby. Local roadways were closed, and pilgrims were turned away temporarily. Students, monks, pilgrims, staff, and workers stayed outside for the rest of the morning and early afternoon while the police made an investigation and a K-9 unit swept the buildings. As it happened, K-9 unit members were training nearby, so the police made use of many dogs at once, and so were able to make a complete and thorough sweep of the entire monastery campus very quickly.
When the investigation found no evidence of any explosive device, the Monastery and Seminary community was cleared to re-enter the buildings. The police investigation is ongoing. Classes have resumed and monastery life continues as usual. Local persons in the larger community are supportive.
On behalf of Bishop Luke, our Rector, and all the Monastery and Seminary community, we wish to thank the New York State Police for their speedy response and professional handling of this case, the Richfield Springs Fire Chief and local EMS responders, our First Hierarch, Metropolitan Nicholas, and all those who have offered and are offering their prayerful support.
Greetings to All with the ongoing feast of the Exaltation of the Precious and Life-giving Cross!
Having served the Divine Liturgy today in the Synodal St. Sergius chapel and beginning to attend to various matters in my office, I was informed of the bomb threat situation at our Holy Trinity Monastery. This caused me grief. I prayed before the wonderworking Icon ‘Joy of All Who Sorrow’ located in the St. Sergius chapel. I was later informed from his Grace Bishop Luke that all was well and the threat had been cleared. His Grace Bishop Luke, the monks, seminarians, and those residing at the monastery, giving thanks to Almighty God, returned to their assigned obediences and studies.
One of the great feasts of the Church is the Exaltation of the Live-giving Cross of the Lord. The Cross is the main symbol of our salvation. Upon it our Saviour was crucified and died for our sins.
The first feast of the Church year is the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos. His Holiness, Patriarch Kirill in his sermon for the feast pointed out that Orthodox Christians begin the Church year with the blessing of the Mother of God and finish the Church year, also with the Mother of God, with the feast of Her Dormition.
75th Anniversary of Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary - 09/17/23
On Friday evening, September 15, a concert entitled "Bells, Choirs & Resounding Virtuosity" was held at the Christ Episcopal Church in Cooperstown, NY, beginning the celebrations dedicated to the 75th anniversary of Holy Trinity Seminary in Jordanville, NY.
On this day we celebrate the feast of the Uncovering of the Relics of St. Job of Pochaev in 1659. As noted before, due to the long Labor Day weekend, the monastery holds an All-People’s pilgrimage of our beloved saint. On this day, however, we also have an All-Nigh Vigil and hierarchal liturgy served in the basement church of St. Job.
From way back, it has been the tradition of the monastery to hold a special All-People’s Feast commemorating our Venerable and God-bearing Father Job of Pochaev, the heavenly protector of our publishing efforts and also the Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, taking advantage of the long weekend.
PANNIKHIDA ON THE DAY OF THE COMMEMORATION OF HOLY MARTYRS FLORUS AND LAURUS - 09/02/23
This day, August 18/31, 2023, we celebrated the memory of the Holy Martyrs Florus and Laurus, the patron saints of two people who played a remarkable role in the life of the monastery and of the Church Abroad.
Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - 08/28/23
As was previously written, the Burial service of the Mother of God was served on the Apodosis of the feast of Transfiguration. On the feast itself, Vladyka served the polyleos during the Vigil and the Divine Liturgy on the feast day, along with the monastery clergy.
On the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, His Grace Bishop Luke served the Divine Liturgy together with the monastery clergy. After the Great Entrance, Vladyka ordained Deacon Paul Siewers to the priesthood. Fr. Paul serves in the mission in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania and will be serving his 40 days in the monastery.
Update on Work to Fix Water Entering Monastic Dorm - 08/06/23
Work has completed outside main dorm to water proof walls, repair plumbing lines, unblock drainage areas. We had had some heave rainfall the past week and we were glad to see that we were not flooded with water coming in. Hopefully this issues of water coing inot the basement has been resolved and we can begin to prepare to having areas fixed around lower store.
For the past couple of year the exhaust system for the cathedral was not working. A couple of weeks ago all the necessary repairs were made and old exhaust fans were replaced with new ones and control system rewired.
Labor Day Weekend Schedule September 2 - 4, 2023 - 07/25/23
Labor Day Weekend Schedule
Saturday September 2
5:00 AM Midnight Office 6:00 AM Divine Liturgy 3:00 PM Meeting of the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God with moleben and akathist hymn to St. Job of Pochaev. Rule for Holy Communion 7:00 PM Vigil
Sunday September 3
6:00 AM Early Liturgy in the church of St. Job of Pochaev 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy. After Liturgy there will be a moleben to the Mother of God and St. Job of Pochaev 6:00 PM Vespers 7:15 PM Small Compline
Monday September 4
5:00 AM Midnight Office 6:00 AM Matins 8:00 AM Divine Liturgy 4:00 PM Vespers, Matins 7:15 PM Small Compline
The murder of the Tsar of Russia Nicholas II and his family is a very dark day in the history of Russia. However, out of their deaths came great spiritual gains for not only Russia, but for all of the Orthodox world. They truly offered their lives for the future rebirth of Holy Russia and for the expiation of the sins of the people. As the years go by, more and more people, not only in Russia, but from all over the world, come to participate in the divine services in Ekaterinburg on this day.
Feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul - 07/12/23
The fast of the Apostles, or the fast of the Apostle Peter as it is sometimes called, is not only for preparing us for the feast celebrated on July 12, but also, in the wisdom of the Church, an opportunity to take advantage of the Christian virtues of prayer and fasting, after the long Paschal period. The Church, aware of our human weaknesses, realizes that we need a time of fasting to help us live a life of repentance and prayer.
Bishop Luke serves at the Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco Mission in Lewisburg PA - 07/02/23
The patronal Feast Day of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco was celebrated at St. John Mission in Lewisburg, PA, on Sunday July 2, with Bishop Luke of Syracuse presiding.
His Grace arrived for Vigil Saturday evening, and also served Divine Liturgy on Sunday.
With Bishop Luke were mission clergy, the Rector Father George Sharonoff, the founding Rector (retired) Hieromonk Claude Vineyard, and Deacon Paul Siewers. Holy Trinity seminarian and Reader John Keller assisted the Bishop along with mission altar servers.
Sunday of All Saints of Russia - Bishop Luke Serves at Sts Theodore Church in Buffalo - 06/19/23
On June 17-18, 2023, the Sunday of All Saints who have shone forth in the land of Russia, His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Luke of Syracuse, came from Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY to Saints Theodore Church in Buffalo, NY, where he led the celebrations in honor of one of the parish’s patron saints, Great Martyr Theodore Stratelates and the translation of his relics.
Concerning Saint Benigne (Benignus) of Dijion - 06/17/23
Over two years ago our Abbot Bishop Luke was struck by the aura of spiritual antiquity and holiness reflected in the artifact, a stone head of an early Hieromartyr Benigne of Dijion France. After extensive research he decided to attempt to obtain a relic of the Saint for the Monastery. Correspondence began with the Archbishop of Dijon, Monseigneur Roland Minnerath, with the assistance of a parishioner at our Synod Cathedral Dr. Joachim Pissarro. Finally our priest in France, Père Quentin de Castelbajac, was able to receive the relic in Dijion from the hands of Archbishop Roland. Eventually, several months later (as this was during the pandemic) he was able to pass it on to Dr. Pissarro who was on a lecture tour in France.
On his return to America Dr. Pissarro brought the holy relic to the Monastery. Much labor was needed to create an icon wherein to enshrine the relic. Because the image would be one of its kind an iconographer the postulant Gabriela from our convent of “Quick to Hear“ worked together with Bishop Luke for more than six months and with God’s help the icon was completed. Through the prayers of the Hieromartyr Benigne (Benignus) may the Lord bless all those who contributed to a revival of the veneration of an early Western Orthodox Saint.
Pentecost is the patronal feast of the Holy Trinity Monastery. More exactly, Holy Spirit Day, the 2nd day of Pentecost is the patronal feast of the cathedral of the Holy Trinity. This feast traditionally Is celebrated in the monastery with great solemnity.
On behalf of our Rector, Dean, faculty, and students, I am excited to announce the details for Holy Trinity Seminary's 75th Anniversary Celebration, which is set to take place this coming September 15-17, 2023
On May 13, 2023, His Grace Bishop Luke of Syracuse, Vicar of the Eastern American Diocese, Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery and Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary in Jordanville arrived in Australia to take part in the celebrations of the 100-year anniversary of the founding of Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Brisbane, Queensland.
Commencement at the Conclusion of the 75th Academic Year - 05/28/23
On the Seventh Sunday of Pascha, in addition to the appointed celebration of the Commemoration of the 318 God-Bearing Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, Holy Trinity Seminary held its Commencement ceremony at the conclusion of the 75th academic year. The Divine Services for the weekend were celebrated by the First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, Metropolian NICHOLAS, along with members of the monastery clergy and some distinguished alumni.
Beginning in 2020, Bishop Luke has sponsored a property-wide bare-root seedling planting each spring, with this year's planting bringing up to 800 trees of different varieties planted around the property. 400 White Birch, 175 White Spruce, 50 White Pine, 50 Black Cherry, 50 Black Walnut, 50 American Elderberry, and 25 mixed stream buffer tree seedlings. In addition, this year a generous benefactor purchased 104 6yr old blue spruce to go around 3 sides of the new cemetery, in double rows, bringing the total planted to 904. Thanks again to the monastics, seminarians, and laymen who helped plant them and special thanks to the generous benefactor.
First Anniversary of Repose of Metropolitan Hilarion in the Monastery - 05/17/23
On May 16, 2022, the ever-memorable Metropolitan Hilarion of New York and Eastern America, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, from 2008 to 2022, reposed in the Lord. He was buried behind the monastery cathedral in the brotherhood cemetery.
Tuesday May 16 : Anniversary of repose of Metropolitan Hilarion - 05/14/23
On Tuesday May 16 there will be a Hierarchical Liturgy served by Metropolitan Nicholas at Holy Trinity Monastery. Afrer lunch around 12:30PM Metropolitan Nicholas will serve a pannikhida at the grave of Metropolitan Hilarion.
Following ancient Jewish traditions of dividing the year into festal seasons and the feasts themselves into parts, the Orthodox Church commemorates the half-point way from the feast of Pascha to the feast of Pentecost, with the feast of Mid-Pentecost. It is an ancient tradition to bless holy water on this feast, which is done in the monastery at the old-fashioned water-well, which has recently been refurbished. At the end of the liturgy on this day, several of the monastery priests and deacons, accompanied by the choir and the faithful processed to the well to the ringing of bells, for the Lesser Blessing of Water.
On the feast of St George , Cyprian Fennema was ordained to the diaconate and on Sunday of the Paralytic he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Luke at Holy Trinity Monastery. Father Cyprian will be serving as a Chaplain for Hosparus Health in Louisville, KY; as a Chaplain for the Kentucky Army National Guard at the 103rd BSB in Harrodsburg, KY; and as a (on loan) priest for the Antiochian Archdiocese at St. Andrew parish in Lexington, KY. Jurisdictionally he will report directly to ROCOR's First Hierarch Metropolitan Nicholas.
Fr Cyprian is currently a lecturer in Patrology in the Certificate of Theological Studies program at Holy Trinity Seminary.
May God help the newly ordained Father Cyprian to work for the salvation of souls.
PASCHAL APPEAL 2023 “Is there anyone who is a devout lover of God? Let them enjoy this beautiful bright festival! Is there anyone who is a grateful servant? Let them rejoice and enter into the joy of their Lord! …Christ is Risen, and you, O death, are annihilated! Christ is Risen, and the evil ones are cast down! Christ is Risen, and the angels rejoice! Christ is Risen, and life is liberated! Christ is Risen, and the tomb is emptied of its dead:” (From the Paschal Sermon of St. John Chrysostom.)
Dear Reverend Fathers, Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, CHRIST IS RISEN! How powerful, wonderful, and triumphant are the words above spoken by our father among the saints, St. John Chrysostom! We hear them each year towards the end of Paschal matins, and each year they proclaim Christ’s victory over death and hades, filling us with spiritual inspiration and joy during our paschal celebrations. St. John in fact calls all of us to the joy of Our Lord’s Day wherever we are and whoever we may be. The saints truly understood this great joy of Pascha, and it has been said that whenever our St. John of Kronstadt and St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco greeted the faithful with “Christ is Risen”, one had the feeling that they themselves were so filled with paschal joy that it was as if they themselves had seen the Risen Lord. The radiant joy of Pascha is so great that we cannot help but share this wonderful joy with all those around us. Having this in mind, let us share in this approaching paschal joy by remembering those less fortunate than ourselves, those struggling in poverty and in great need. Let us remember our St. John of Kronstadt who often brought consolation and comfort to families and individuals in great need, and let us all imitate his kind works of benevolence and kindness by helping others in need through our St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Fund. We appeal to all to help us help others with your active participation by not only contributing what you can, but also by becoming members of our Memorial Fund which is active since 1954. Help us by preserving this holy legacy which stives to follow the spiritual ideals of St. John. With your help and kindness, we can help spread that paschal joy to the less fortunate and needy. We express our profound gratitude to our donors and supporters who continue in their kind contributions over the years. May Our Risen Lord reward you all graciously! May Our Risen Saviour bless you and your loved ones with a spiritually profitable Great Lent, Holy Week and a most joyous, bright and radiant Pascha! CHRIST IS RISEN!
With much love in our Risen Lord, Archpriest Michael Taratuchin, Vice-President of the St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Fund and Rector of the St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Church in Utica, New York, USA.
ПАСХАЛЬНОЕ ВОЗЗВАНИЕ 2023 "Аще кто благочестив и боголюбив, да насладится сего добраго и светлаго торжества. Аще кто раб благоразумный, да внидет, радуяся, в радость Господа своего. …Воскресе Христос, и падоша демони. Воскресе Христос, и радуются Ангели. Воскресе Христос, и жизнь жительствует. Воскресе Христос, и мертвый ни един во гробе….” (Слово Огласительное во святый и светоносный день преславнаго и спасительнаго Христа Бога нашего Воскресения иже во святых отца нашего Иоанна, архиепископа Константинопольскаго, Златоустаго) Дорогие Возлюбленные Отцы, Братья и Сёстры во Христе, Христос Воскресе! Как же могущественны, чудесны и торжественны слова иже во святых отца нашего, святого Иоанна Златоуста! Каждый год мы слышим эти слова в конце пасхальной утрени, и год за годом они провозглашают победу Христа над смертью и адом, наполняя нас духовным вдохновением и радостью во время пасхальных празднований. Святой Иоанн Златоуст призывает всех нас к радости Дня Господня, где бы мы ни находились, и кто бы мы ни были. Святые по-настоящему понимали эту великую радость Пасхи и всякий раз, когда святитель Иоанн Кронштадтский и святитель Иоанн Шанхайский и Сан-Францисский приветствовали верующих словами «Христос Воскресе», было ощущение, что они сами так исполнялись пасхальной радости, будто воочию видели Воскресшего Господа. Светлая радость Пасхи так велика, что мы не можем не поделиться этой чудесной радостью со всеми окружающими нас людьми. Давайте же разделим эту приближающуюся пасхальную радость с теми, кому повезло меньше, чем нам, и с теми, кто пребывает в бедности и большой нужде. А также давайте вспомним нашего святителя Иоанна Кронштадтского, часто приносящего утешение нуждающимся семьям и одиноким людям. Мы можем стараться подражать его добрым делам милосердия и доброты, оказывая помощь нуждающимся через благотворительный фонд святителя Иоанна Кронштадтского. Мы призываем вас проявить активное участие в оказании помощи другим людям не только своими посильными пожертвованиями, но и становясь членами нашего фонда, который действует с 1954 года. Мы просим вашей помощи в сохранении этого святого наследия, стремящегося к духовным идеалам Святого Праведного Иоанна Кронштадтского. Благодаря вашей помощи и милосердию мы можем подарить эту пасхальную радость нуждающимся и обездоленным. Мы выражаем глубокую признательность всем жертвователям фонда и всем, кто нас поддерживает и продолжает вносить свой вклад на протяжении многих лет. Да вознаградит вас всех Воскресший Господь! Пусть Воскресший Спаситель благословит Вас и Ваших близких духовно полезным Великим постом, Страстной неделей и самой радостной, светлой Пасхой! Христос Воскресе!
С любовью к нашему Воскресшему Спасителю,
Протоиерей Михаил Таратухин, Вице-председатель Благотворительного Фонда Святого Праведного Иоанна Кронштадтского, Настоятель Храма-Памятника Святого Праведного Иоанна Кронштадтского в г.Ютика, штат Нью-Йорк, США
Baptism of Babies Born Through Surrogacy - 04/21/23
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The issues below have become more critical with daily technological advances. The positions expressed are those of Holy Trinity Seminary and reflect the opinions of our late spiritual fathers such as Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Kiprian.
+ Bishop Luke Rector, Holy Trinity Seminary
Currently, reproductive biomedical technology, called "surrogate motherhood", is becoming increasingly widespread. Although this practice is permitted by law in several countries, it continues to cause heated discussions in society. The "Fundamentals of the Social Concept of the Russian Orthodox Church", adopted by the Jubilee Bishops' Council in 2000, assesses this phenomenon. However, a number of issues concerning the pastoral attitude to the consequences of "surrogacy" continues to be debatable. By this document, the Russian Orthodox Church gives church-practical instructions concerning the baptism of children born with the help of a "surrogate mother".
This year, the monastery celebrated a very warm Pascha in all senses of the meaning. The Lord gave us unusually warm temperatures. Many pilgrims arrived at the monastery in order to celebrate the Feast of Feasts with the brethren and the seminarians. The large bell begins to be rung as the choir sings the Canon of Holy Saturday during the Midnight Office. At the end of this, the shroud is brought back into the altar and placed on the Holy Table, where it will stay all during the Paschal season.
Holy Week in the monastery, as experienced by our many pilgrims, is a very special time of year. All of the many special services of Great Lent lead up to the commemoration of the Passion of the Lord. Liturgically, on Great and Holy Wednesday, there are changes in the typicon which express the unity of these days, leading up to the feast of our Lord’s Resurrection, Holy Pascha. Whereas the Psalter is read twice a week during Great Lent, and there are many Prayers of St. Ephraim, no more are these observed, neither is the Presanctified Liturgy celebrated, the last one being served on Great Wednesday.
On April 6, 2023, on the even of the feast of the Annunciation, Matushka Galina Tkaschow reposed in the Lord after a long illness. She was the matushka of Archpriest Nikolai Tkaschow, pastor of the Church of the Entrance of the Mother of God Into the Temple in Syracuse, New York.
Feasts of the Annunciation and Palm Sunday - 04/09/23
The feast of the Annunciation is like a bright light in the dark solemnity of Great Lent. This year, it was two days before Palm Sunday, so we had the delight to celebrate two great feasts within a couple of days of each other, with the equally joyous feast of Lazarus Saturday in between.
Attention to all visitors to Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary. - 03/25/23
All groups of pilgrims to Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary of more than 10 people or more must as their first contact notify Archimandrite Theophylact, our Pilgrimage Coordinator. Father Theophylact will then direct your request to the appropriate areas including the Guesthouse. your intention is to only visit the museum please contact the museum web site. His contact information is: frtheophylact@jordanville.org Phone: (315) 717-2795 / (315)858 3914
Groups of 10 and under please contact directly the guesthouse at 315 858 0131 and email address:
If your intention is to only visit the museum please contact the museum web site. His contact information is: frtheophylact@jordanville.org
2023 Eastern American Diocesan Lenten Clergy Conference - 03/22/23
To provide our clergy with the opportunity to better spiritually prepare for the great feast of Pascha, it has been a tradition to hold conferences during Great Lent. It was agreed that future conferences should be held annually in Holy Trinity Monastery/Seminary due to the conducive monastic atmosphere and especially the complete lenten services.
JORDANVILLE, NY: RESOLUTION OF THE CLERGY OF THE NORTHERN DEANERIES OF THE EASTERN AMERICAN DIOCESE - 03/22/23
Having gathered in Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York, for the Lenten retreat and conference of clergy of the northern deaneries of the Eastern American Diocese, we, clergy and monastics, having bowed down in worship before the Cross, communed of the Holy Mysteries, and honored the memory of the 40 Martyrs of Sebaste, raised up our prayers for the flock entrusted to us. We prayed especially for our persecuted brothers and sisters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, led by His Beatitude Onuphry, Metropolitan of Kiev & All Ukraine.
Special Moleben for His beatitude, Metropolitan Onouphry of Kiev and All Ukraine and his God - Preserved Flock - 03/14/23
As is commonly known among Orthodox Christians, of late the canonical Orthodox Church of Ukraine has been undergoing increasing persecution in Ukraine. And now it has been announced by the regime in Kiev, that the monks of the Kiev Caves Monastery, the holiest site of Orthodoxy in Ukraine, and the birthplace of Russian Orthodoxy, have to leave their home. The Church has announced that they do not recognize this as legal and intend to remain.
LENTEN PASTORAL RETREAT SCHEDULE Holy Trinity Monastery · Jordanville, NY · March 20-22, 2023 - 03/08/23
Divine services will be held in Holy Trinity Cathedral. Lecture will be delivered in the Seminary Hall. Meals will be served in the monastery refectory. The bookstore will be open throughout the retreat.
Monday, March 20th – Travel Day 7:00 PM – Supper.
7:30 PM – Great Compline.
Tuesday, March 21th
5:00 AM – Midnight Office, Matins, Hours.
7:30 AM – Breakfast in Monastery Refectory
10:30 AM –Greeting by His Eminence, Metropolitan Nicholas
10:40 AM – Discussion of missionary work: Priest Paul Kang from Korea; Archpriest Victor
Potapov (dean of the Capital Region); Archpriest Alexandre Antchoutine (dean of New York City & Long Island and dean of Florida) from Glen Cove, NY. Discussion to follow.
12:00 PM – Lunch. 2:00 PM – Messages by the Seminary Dean and Museum Curator.
3:00 PM – Open Floor: Bishops & Clergy. Seminarians may observe.
Wednesday, March 22nd 5:00 AM – Midnight Office, Matins, Hours. 10:30 AM – Greeting of the Metropolitan, followed by Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. All clergy are expected to serve, and are asked to bring their own purple vestments. 12:00 PM – Group Photo after Liturgy, followed by lunch in the refectory.
First Week of Great Lent at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/05/23
The First Week of Great Lent is a very special time of spiritual retreat for the brotherhood and seminarians at Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary. Although the monastery celebrates many feasts with great solemnity and observes the Church fasts strictly, the First Week is a very special time of year, when literally everything shuts down except for the most necessary activities.
This year, the patronal feast of the seminary was celebrated with special solemnity. This being the 75thanniversary of the seminary, it is only fitting that the seminary was able to mark this holy day in such a special way, for which we give thanks to our Lord.
The following is an answer to a question raised in an Orthodox email forum, answered by Fr. Alexander Lebedeff.
I recently read a post in which the author stated that a thorough answer had never been given regarding the practice of laymen lifting up their arms during the Anaphora, or saying three "Amens" after the Epiclesis.
I'll try to clarify the issue, at least from my point of view.
I had previously written that praying with both arms upraised was the prerogative of the Priest, following the simple paradigm: the Priest prays (at appointed times) with both arms raised; the Deacon prays with one arm raised, and the faithful laypeople pray without raising their arms.
This paradigm is one that is reflected in many other areas. At the service of ordination, the candidate for the diaconate bows one knee before the altar table; the candidate for Priesthood kneels on both knees, as a symbol of the extra (double) burden of the Priesthood. The Deacon wears the orarion on one shoulder. The Priest's stole (epitrachelion) is the same orarion, just worn over both shoulders, again indicating his extra spiritual responsibility. The Deacon's orarion even has only one row of fringe, while the Priest's stole always has two, for the same reason. The chain of the cross of a Priest or Bishops, in contrast with the chain of the baptismal (on-the-body) cross of a layman has an extra loop that hangs down in the back, symbolizing the extra burden of the Priest, who carries not only his own sins, but the sins of his flock on himself.
So, allowing laypeople to raise their both arms is presuming upon the prerogative of the Priest. It cannot be considered an acceptable expression of fervor, since even the Priest is explicitly cautioned by the rubrics not to make any spontaneous expressions of fervor, explicitly including raising of arms during non-specified times in the services. If this rubric applies to Priests, it certainly should apply to laymen, as well.
Similarly, the proclaiming aloud of three "amens" after the epiclesis is another uncalled-for expression of fervor, meaning it is not specified in the rubrics of the service. The service books state clearly that the three "Amens" are said by the Deacon. It does not say: "and the people say—amen, amen, amen."
Again, this is an example of laypeople usurping the prerogative of the Deacon, who participates actively in the consecration of the Holy Gifts, and gives both the invitations ("Bless, Master, the Holy Bread." etc.) and the responses, including the "Amens." It would be inappropriate for the altar servers to participate in these responses, even though they are right there and can see and hear what is occurring. During the epiclesis, the choir is singing the solemn hymn "We sing unto Thee...", the Royal Doors are closed, and the faithful stand in silent prayer that should not be interrupted by any amens, however well-intentioned. In order to even know when the exact moment to say these amens occurs, the congregation would have to hear the words that the Priest is supposed to pronounce quietly during the singing of the hymn. Either the Priest would have to say them quite loudly, drowning out the singing, or the singing would have to stop so that you could hear what the Priest was saying. Both would be a violation of the order of the service (as is any reading aloud by a Priest of any prayer meant to be read quietly or silently).
Actually, there are a variety of dynamics indicated in the services for prayers. Some are said quietly (in a low voice), some are said loudly (in a great voice), some are said silently (no voice). We should humbly defer to the holy authors of these services and follow their directions. Whenever we want to introduce something "of our own," we not only violate the service rubrics, but we violate the unity of the church.
All such "unique" practices should be patiently and lovingly eliminated.
Dear friends and supporters of Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary,
We have recently been made aware of yet another attempt to build a windmill project in our backyard. While the previous plans were dismissed a few years back, now the companies involved are taking advantage of the New York State Energy Plan and its incentives to build renewables that will by-pass the environmental review and local input that put a halt to the previous windmill projects.
There is a legal case currently before the Court of Appeals about this type of surreptitious effort, however, we call upon all who read this to pray for an end to these threats to our environment and we ask that you contact local legislators to ask for their intervention. The email/website addresses are below.
With your prayers and through the intercession of Our Most Holy Lady Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, we pray this newest assault on the life of our Monastery does not succeed.
In Christ
+Bishop Luke of Syracuse,
Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary
This year, the celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ has been as festive as usual, however without the snow that usually typifies Christmas in Jordanville
Repairs were made in the bell tower, replacing worn out ropes and fixing certain areas of the bell tower by a lay pilgrim with a background in electrical engineering who came to volunteer his services for a few days.
FEAST OF THE ENTRY OF THE MOTHER OF GOD INTO THE TEMPLE - 12/04/22
On December 4 (NS), the Church celebrates the great feast of the Entry, or Entrance, of the Mother of God Into the Temple. This is a feast very much beloved by monastics. At the age of three, the holy little child is taken to the temple in Jerusalem, to become prepared to be the Mother of our Lord. She spent her time there in prayer, fasting, and in conversation with the heavenly hosts. In this way, her life in the inter-sanctum, or the Holy of Holies, was a forerunner of the monastic life.
Feast of the Venerable Father Paisius Velichkovsky - 11/29/22
On November 30 (New Style), the Church commemorates the memory of St. Paisius, who was very much responsible for the renewal of monasticism in Russia in the 19th century.
I have asked that my original statement about Covid-19 vaccines be removed. More information about these issues has come to light that prevent me from supporting all that I had written.
+ Bishop Luke of Syracuse Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary Jordanville, NY
On November 21, 2017 Metropolitan Hilarion blessed the opening of the new woman’s monastery Convent of the Mother of God, Quick to Hear. Metropolitan Hilarion and Bishop Luke belived there was a need for a woman’s monastery in the Russian tradition using English and with God’s blessing our monastery is now celebrating its 5th year anniversary. Bishop Luke and Mother Nektaria (McElroy) searched for a suitable property for establishing a monastery. After several months of searching a lovely and very picturesque piece of property was found, a five acre plot of land with a house and a very large unfinished two-story garage. It is in the quiet rural hills just outside of Richfield Springs, NY and a 20 minute drive from Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville.
On the second weekend of October, from the 6th to the 9th of the month, the inaugural Uncut Mountain Press conference took place at the Antiochian Village, Pennsylvania. More than 250 people were in attendance and nearly thirty were clergy, with broad pan-Orthodox representation. His Grace, bishop Luke of Syracuse, was the honorary chairman and a speaker at the conference, which was dedicated to the ethos of the Orthodox Church.
Feast of the Archangel Michael and All of the Heavenly Hosts - 11/21/22
Before God created the physical world, he created the spiritual world. Especially important for Orthodox Christians are the Bodiless Hosts who are a constant in our spiritual life. On this day, we celebrate their memory. In a way, it is the Name’s Day of all of us since we are all given a Guardian Angel at baptism, who assist us along the path to salvation and in all of our needs.
Today, the holy and miraculous Icon of Iveron from Hawaii departed the monastery after a most blessed stay of almost one week, during which all felt and witnessed the great mercy and love of the Most Holy Theotokos towards us sinners.
Thursday Nov 3 - Pannikhida for Metropolitan Hilarion - 10/31/22
On Thursday Nov 3, there will be a 6am Hierarchical Liturgy served by Metropolitan Nicholas and Bishop Luke. After lunch , around 12:30 there will be a pannikhida served for Metropolitan Hilarion by his grave site behing the cathedral.
Tuesday Nov. 1 - Moleben and Akathist to the "Hawaiian" Iveron Myrrh Streaming Icon - 10/30/22
On Tuesday, November 1, at 6PM there will be a moleben and Akathist in English to the "Hawaiian" Iveron myrrhstreaming icon in the Cemetery Dormition Chapel.
Wednesday Nov. 2 - Moleben and Akathist to the "Hawaiian" Iveron Myrrh Streaming Icon - 10/30/22
On Wednesday, November 2, after compline there will be a moleben and Akathist to the "Hawaian" Iveron myrrhstreaming icon in the main cathedral of Holy Trinity Monatery.
3:30 Pannikhida at gravesite of Br. Jose 4:00 Communion Rule 6:45 Greeting of the “Hawaiian” Myrrstreaming Iveron Icon 7:00 Vigil
Sunday 6:00 AM Early Liturgy in St. Job of Pochaelv Church 8:00 Midnight Office 9:00 Hierarchical Divine Liturgy After lunch: Presentation in Seminary Hall on life of Br. Jose and about the Iveron Myrrh streaming Icon Around 4:30PM Pannikhida at gravesite of Br. Jose
Bishop Luke Celebrates Divine Liturgy in Holy Protection Church in Rochester NY - 10/20/22
On Saturday the 19th and Sunday the 20th of October, His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Luke of Syracuse came from Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY to Protection of the Mother of God Church in Rochester, NY. His Grace’s visit was timed to coincide with the parish’s patronal feast day, which had taken place on the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos the Monday prior.
Feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos - 10/14/22
Unlike in other local Orthodox Churches, in the Russian Church, the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos is considered a great holy day and is treated much as one of the twelve major holy days of the Orthodox Church. In part this is due to historical reasons. This feast commemorates the miraculous appearance of the Most Holy Mother of God in the Church of Blachernae in ancient Constantinople, when the city was in danger of sacking by pagan warriors from present-day Russia. This intervention of the Holy Virgin caused the pagans to reevaluate their paganism, upon beholding the power of the Mother of God in protecting the Orthodox people.
Feast of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross - 09/27/22
Among the many relics that the monastery is blessed to have, perhaps one of the most precious is a piece of the true Life-Giving Cross of our Saviour. It is contained in a beautiful wooden pectoral cross, which belonged to the every-memorable Archbishop Averky, previous abbot of our monastery. The cross itself is contained in a larger cross. This cross is the one used for a couple of the commemoration days of the Cross of our Lord, specifically for this feast.
Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos - 09/21/22
On September 8/21, the Holy Church celebrates the first great feast of the church year, the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos, as it is called in the service, “The beginning of our salvation.”
The enthronement of Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia takes place - 09/19/22
On Sunday, 18 September, 2022, ceremonies surrounding the enthronement of His Eminence His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York, newly-elected Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, took place.
Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan Elected First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia - 09/13/22
On Tuesday, 13 September, the election of His Grace Nicholas, Bishop of Manhattan, as the new First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia by its Council of Bishops took place.
In accordance with the Act of Canonical Communion, signed on May 17, 2007, the Council will send the Act of Election, drafted by the vote-counting committee, to His Holiness Kyrill, Patriarch of Moscow & All Russia, with a request to bless the electee to assume the duties of the First Hierarch entrusted to him by his brother-archpastors, and for confirmation of the election by the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The rite of enthronement of His Eminence Nicholas, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, newly elected First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, will take place on Sunday, September 18.
Schedule of Divine Services for the Enthronement of the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad:
Saturday, September 17 ‒ All-Night vigil in the Synodal Cathedral of the Sign at 6:00 PM.
At the end of the service, the newly elected Primate will emerge through the Royal Doors in a black klobuk and common bishop’s mantle and face the congregation. Two senior hierarchs will then present a white klobuk and blue mantle, which the newly elected First Hierarch will don, aided by subdeacons. At this moment, the senior-most hierarch will announce "Axios" ("he is worthy") which will be repeated first by the bishops then by the choir.
After this, the Primate will bless the clergy and congregants. Before this, the blue mantle and white klobuk will be blessed with holy water by the senior-most hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad during the reading of the First Hour.
Sunday, September 18 ‒ Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral at 9:30 AM.
After the reading of the entrance prayers and the customary vesting of the two senior hierarchs, the new Metropolitan will be escorted to the vesting area, when "Axios" will be repeated by the hierarchs and clergy, then by the choir. Divine Liturgy will commence in the customary manner.
After the service, a moleben will be performed along with the entrusting of the archpastoral staff to the new Primate, which was blessed on the crypt of the Holy Hierarch Tikhon, Patriarch and Confessor of All Russia.
Feast of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist - 09/11/22
This year, the feast of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist coincided with this Sunday’s service. The monastery was blessed with a pilgrimage of faithful from the parish of St. Panteleimon in Hartford, CT., along with its pastor, the Very Rev. Dionysii Nalitov.
As shown in a previous posting, the monastery celebrates the memory of St. Job of Pochaev on Labor Day weekend for the sake of the faithful, who take advantage of the long weekend to come to the monastery in pilgrimage.
However, the real feast is on August 28/September 10. On this day, the monastery had an All-Night Vigil the evening before, and His Grace Bishop Luke celebrated a hierarchal Divine Liturgy together with the monastery clergy. At the end of the Liturgy, a moleben was served to St. Job with a Cross Procession around the church.
Since Labor Day weekend is a long weekend, and in order to provide the faithful the opportunity to spend the holiday in a spiritually profitable way, it has been the tradition of the monastery for many years to dedicate this weekend to the memory of St. Job of Pochaev and the Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Mother of God. This is only fitting as the roots of the monastery’s traditions go back to the Pochaev Monastery in Volynia, present-day Ukraine.
Name's Day of the Ever-Memorable Metropolitan Laurus - 08/31/22
Today in the Church calendar are commemorated the holy Martyrs Laurus and Florus. This was the Name’s Day of our beloved and ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus (+2008) and Archimandrite Flor (+2012).
Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - 08/28/22
The feast of the Dormition is celebrated very solemnly in our monastery. In recent years, the Burial of the Mother of God has been added to the typicon of our monastery. On the feast itself, special hymns are chanted to glorify the Most Pure Holy Virgin in her Dormition.
Forefeast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - 08/27/22
A few years ago, His Grace Bishop Luke, abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, instituted the practice of celebrating the “Burial” of the Mother of God. In Russia, there were different practices of how to commemorate this event. In our monastery it was decided to perform this service on the Eve, or the Forefeast, August 14th.
There are three feasts of the Saviour in the month of August. The first one was the feast of the Procession of the Cross. The Transfiguration is the second one, and the feast of the Image-Not-Made-By-Hands is the third, the day following the feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Feast of the Procession of the Cross, First Day of Dormition Fast Feast of the Maccabean Martyrs - 08/14/22
It is the tradition of the Orthodox Church to put the Cross in the middle of the church for the veneration of the faithful, during the Matins service on the eve of this feast. This commemorates when the True Cross was brought out of the Imperial Treasury and placed on the altar of the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Constantinople.
Visit of Bishop Alexis of Sitka and Alaska to Holy Trinity Monastery - 07/23/22
On July 23 and 24, 2022, His Grace Bishop Alexis of Sitka and Alaska (OCA) paid a visit to the Holy Trinity Monastery. Having been given a tour of the monastery grounds, His Grace Bishop Luke, abbot of the monastery, invited Vladyka Alexis and his travel companions to a tea in the afternoon. The two bishops interchanged ideas about contemporary issues of the Orthodox Church locally and in the world. Vladyka impressed all with his humble and sincere bearing.
The celebration of the feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul is the culmination of the fast that precedes it, differing ever year in its length due to the date of Pascha. However, the fast is not only for preparation for a great feast, but also the Holy Church established this fast knowing very well our weaknesses and tendency to excess, especially after Pascha and the end of the Great Fast. Also, in keeping this fast, we united ourselves prayerfully to the holy apostles who fasted and prayed after Pentecost to prepare themselves to begin preaching the Gospel to the world.
Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist - 07/07/22
On July 7 (N.S.), the Church celebrated the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, of whom the Lord spoke as a man no greater of whom had been created.
Feast of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco - 07/02/22
The feast of St. John falls on the Saturday closest to the day of his repose, so that the faithful might find it easier to participate in the feast of this saint of the Church Abroad. This year, this was July 2nd.
40th Day Since the Repose of Metropolitan Hilarion - 06/24/22
Today, June 24 is the 40th day of the repose of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Hilarion. Our dear Vladyka was much loved by his flock, as he himself always showed us so much love. So, not just as our natural duty, but out of love for all that Vladyka did for us, his spiritual children, we observed a special day of prayer in his memory.
For Holy Spirit Day, many visiting clergy arrived from all over to participate in the monastery’s feast day. Vladyka was greeted “with glory” at the refectory staircase. Despite being a work-day, the church was filled with pilgrims. Before the Small Entrance, Priest Ephraim Willmarth, the assistant to the seminary dean was awarded the right to wear the kamilavka. Vladyka stated that this is due to his diligent service to the seminary and the Church. We whole-heartedly congratulate Fr. Ephraim and Matushka Joanna for this well-deserved distinction.
The patronal feast of the monastery is Pentecost, more particularly, the Day of the Holy Spirit, the day after the great feast day. On Saturday afternoon, the Rule for Communion is longer than usual as the Akathist that forms part of the Rule is to the Holy Trinity, a very lengthy composition. During the All-Night Vigil, when the Litya is served, it is our tradition to process around the church, stopping at all four corners for the petitions to be read.
The day before Pentecost, Saturday, there is a special commemoration in the Church’s typicon for all of the Orthodox reposed. Since the monastery has a very large cemetery, it has been the custom for many years to have the Divine Liturgy on this day in the cemetery’s chapel of the Dormition, which was built almost fifty years ago in memory of the New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, especially the Royal Martyrs.
40TH DAY OF THE REPOSE OF METROPOLITAN HILARION - 06/10/22
Friday, June 24, will mark the 40th day of the reposed of His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral), sixth First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad.
His Grace Luke, Bishop of Syracuse, will officiate the divine services for the departed in Holy Trinity Monastery: hierarchal Divine Liturgy at 6:00 AM, followed by a panihida at the gravesite behind the cathedral. Clergy who wish to concelebrate are asked to bring their red vestments.
There will also be a second Pannikhida after lunch for those that were not able to make Pannikhida after the Divine Liturgy
Graduation at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary - 06/05/22
The Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary is an integral part of the life of the Holy Trinity Monastery. The seminarians participate in the life of the monastery, in its services as well as in all other aspects of monastery life. Likewise, the monastics participate in many ways in the life of the seminary.
On June 2, the Holy Church celebrated the great feast of the Ascension of the Lord. Culturally, this feast trails behind the solemnity of how Pascha and the Nativity of the Lord are celebrated by the faithful. However, this is unfortunate, since this feast celebrates the culmination, one might say, of the Lord’s salvific life on this earth for mankind, in that this holy day commemorates how the Lord took our human nature and with it sat at the right hand of God the Father.
On June 1st was the celebration of the Leave-taking, or Apodosis, of Pascha. His Grace, Bishop Luke, celebrated the divine liturgy early in the morning, along with monastery clergy. During the Liturgy, he ordained seminarian Lawrence Remington from Indonesia, to the deaconate.
On Sunday, May 15, Deacon Lawerce Cunnighham was ordained to the priesthood by His Grace Bishop Luke at Holy Trinity Monastery. May God help Priest Lawrence to serve the Church with zeal and piety. Fr. Lawrence currently is enrolled in the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary.
9th Day Pannikhida for Metropolitan Hilarion - 05/24/22
On Tuesday, May 24, the whole Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, and also many in other churches, commemorated with prayer the 9th day since the repose of our dearly beloved Metropolitan Hilarion of blessed memory. In the monastery His Grace, Bishop Luke, together with the monastery clergy served a pannikhida at the grave of Vladyka with the monastery/seminary choir singing. Joining in prayer were many neighbors and pilgrims.
WORD OF PRAISE OF THE NEWLY REPOSED METROPOLITAN HILARION - 05/23/22
Christ is Risen!
I was introduced to Metropolitan Hilarion (then Fr. Hilarion) by Fr. Luke (Bishop Luke), the present abbot, who introduced me to Orthodoxy, when the time came to prepare for baptism. Fr. Hilarion had been busy preparing one of the older professors for passing into eternal life, Professor Sergei Ivanov. My memories of Fr. Hilarion are those that are universally held by all those who had the grace to know him. He was so kind and friendly. He made you always feel that you were the center of his attention. He remained so until his last days.
BIDDING FAREWELL TO METROPOLITAN HILARION - 05/22/22
The newly reposed Metropolitan Hilarion began his spiritual life in our Holy Trinity Monastery. After successfully completing his studies in the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary, Igor Alexeivich Kapral was tonsured the Monk Hilarion and rapidly was ordained to be a hieromonk. Until he was chosen to be Bishop of Manhattan in 1984, he began his pastoral life in the monastery while performing many different obediences. The monastery being the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, he quickly became well known by our pilgrims as a spiritual leader, exhibiting the important monastic and pastoral virtues of deep humility, simplicity and love. It was extremely rare that Fr Hilarion was seen to be angry or depressed. He exhibited spiritual joy and was very attentive to the needs of all with whom he crossed paths.
After Compline today the first Pannikhida was served for Metropolitan Hilarion at Holy Trinity Monastery presided by our Abbot, Bishop Luke. Bishop Luke asked for everyone gathered to pray for the repose of our beloved Metropolitan who was not only a member of the brotherhood but a caring and accesible ruling Hierarch who always showed interest in the life of the monastery, seminary and convents. He was a tireless shepherd giving his time to answer the many requests from different people and often staying up very late at night being on the phone with people to help them. The pannikhida was served in an atmosphere of sober sorrow but also hope in the Resurrection that God would grant His servant eternal rest to where the righteous repose.
Metropolitan Hilarion Reposed in the Lord - 05/16/22
Today, May 16, 2022, the feast day of St Theodosius of the Kievan Caves, at two o’clock New York time, following a lengthy illness, His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, reposed in the Lord, in a NYC hospital.
On the third Sunday of Pascha, the Sunday of the Myrrh-bearing Women, His Grace Bishop Luke presided at the Divine Liturgy, along with the monastery clergy. This was a particularly joyful occasion as Vladyka performed two ordinations along with a tonsure to the subdeaconate.
Tuesday May 3, 5PM Lecture by Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet in the Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov Hall of Holy Trinity Seminary - 04/30/22
Title: Divinization as the Christian Project and Model of True Transhumanism.
Lecturer: Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet
Date and Time: 5PM Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Holy Trinity Publications and Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary are excited to host noted patrologist and author Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet as part of a rare visit to the United States.
On Tuesday, May 3rd, at 5 p.m., Dr. Larchet will deliver a lecture in the Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov Hall of Holy Trinity Seminary titled, "Divinization as the Christian Project and Model of True Transhumanism." After first examining the dead ends and illusions of the current philosophical fashion of transhumanism, Dr. Larchet proposes the Orthodox Christian conception of divinization as a true fulfillment of the flawed transhumanist ideology.The lecture will be open to the public and time will be allotted for questions from the audience. Light refreshments will be provided.
Dr Jean-Claude Larchet is one of the most notable living authors on Orthodox Christian Patristics. He holds a Ph.D in philosophy from the University of Nancy and a Ph.D. in theology from the University of Strasbourg. A teacher of philosophy for nearly thirty-five years, he is an author of over thirty books and countless articles whose work has been translated into over a dozen languages. His magnum opus, Therapy of Spiritual Illness, and several other works have been translated into English to wide acclaim, three of them by Holy Trinity Publications.
Title: Divinization as the Christian Project and Model of True Transhumanism. Lecturer: Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet
Date and Time: Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Full Description: Holy Trinity Publications and Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary are excited to host noted patrologist and author Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet as part of a rare visit to the United States.
On Tuesday, May 3rd, at 5 p.m., Dr. Larchet will deliver a lecture in the Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov Hall of Holy Trinity Seminary titled, "Divinization as the Christian Project and Model of True Transhumanism." After first examining the dead ends and illusions of the current philosophical fashion of transhumanism, Dr. Larchet proposes the Orthodox Christian conception of divinization as a true fulfillment of the flawed transhumanist ideology.
The lecture will be open to the public and time will be allotted for questions from the audience. Light refreshments will be provided.
Dr Jean-Claude Larchet is one of the most notable living authors on Orthodox Christian Patristics. He holds a Ph.D in philosophy from the University of Nancy and a Ph.D. in theology from the University of Strasbourg. A teacher of philosophy for nearly thirty-five years, he is an author of over thirty books and countless articles whose work has been translated into over a dozen languages. His magnum opus, Therapy of Spiritual Illness, and several other works have been translated into English to wide acclaim, three of them by Holy Trinity Publications.
Our abbot, His Grace Bishop Luke, commented at the luncheon meal on the day of Pascha, that whatever our Lord wills, happens, and without Him, nothing happens. So it was that He willed that our monastery and community has had a most wonderful and solemn paschal celebration. This is especially felt after two years of the Covid crisis. For this we are most thankful to our Risen Lord.
After a brief rest of several hours, Vespers for Holy Saturday is served with many Old Testament readings and the Prokeimenon, “Arise, O God…,” during which all the coverings in church and the altar as well as the vestments of the clergy are changed to Paschal white. Thereupon we proceeded with the Liturgy of St. Basil with the chanting of “Let all creation be silent…” in place of the usual Offeratory Hymn. It is also monastery tradition that on this day all partake of the Holy Mysteries.
At the end of the Liturgy, according to and in remembrance of ancient practice, large loaves of bread were blessed and distributed to the faithful which were eaten with some wine, in memory of the fact that in the early Church, Christians remained in church all day, awaiting the Resurrection of the Lord.
Holy Thursday the Church commemorates the first Mystical Meal, or Divine Liturgy. The main theme is the partaking of the Body and Blood of Our Lord and the unity of His apostles with their Master. By divine providence, we still have this in Christ’s Church to this day. The Eucharist both unties us to our Lord and one to another.
Liturgically Great Lent finishes on Friday of the 6th Week of Great Lent, and the Church celebrates a dual feast, that of the Resurrection of Lazarus from the dead and the Entrance of the Lord Into Jerusalem, or Palm Sunday as it is commonly known.
Many years ago the monastery did not have its own Unction service as is customary, during Great Lent in many dioceses, however around 30 years ago, a time when several of the monastery brethren were ailing from serious illnesses, Archbishop (later Metropolitan) Laurus, became convinced that it was a good thing to do.
On the Fifth Sunday of Great Lent, the Holy Church commemorates the life of St. Mary of Egypt, as an example of ascetic struggling for the purification of the soul and deep repentance.
Monastic Tonsures on the Feast of the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos - 04/08/22
According to the typicon of the Lenten Triodion, on the Saturday of the Fifth Week of Great Lent, the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos is chanted as part of the Matins service. As usual, His Grace Bishop Luke served the Akathist Hymn along with the brethren of the monastery.
The feast of the Annunciation and the rubrics on how to serve it are very interesting, since the feast can fall on any number of days during Great Lent and Bright Week, including, howbeit very rarely, on Pascha itself.
PILGRIMAGE FROM HOLY RESURRECTION SERBIAN ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL, Chicago, Illinois - 04/03/22
On the weekend of April 1-3, the monastery was visited by a pilgrimage of approximately 50 people from the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Resurrection in Chicago, Illinois. The group was headed by a priest of the cathedral, the Rev. Nikolaj Kostur, a graduate of our Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary.
Lenten Pastoral Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/28/22
A very good practice of our Church has been to hold clergy conferences a couple of times a year, during which the clergy many have brotherly contact and interaction with each other and the bishops. Due to the COVID -19 pandemic, this was not possible until this year since 1920.
During the middle of the Great Fast, the Holy Church, wanting to strengthen her faithful in their Lenten struggles, brings out the Life-Giving Cross for the veneration of the faithful. The service itself in many ways repeats the service of the Exaltation of the Cross in September, both of them drawing their inspiration from the service of Holy Friday, the Passion of the Lord.
Statement on Abortion by His Grace Bishop Luke of Syracuse, Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/26/22
The faithful have expressed concern that some recent statements seem to indicate that the Orthodox Christian position on abortion has changed. The Orthodox Church has consistently and unequivocally recognized the full humanity of every person beginning at the moment of conception and, therefore, has always been pro-life, regarding abortion as the murder of another human being. While the society around us may change its views from century to century, the Church can still reiterate the words of the Lord’s Teaching through the Twelve Apostles to the Nations (the “Didache”), which dates to the earliest generations of the Church: “Do not murder a child by abortion or kill a newborn infant” The Church proclaims the love of God to all mankind, with no exception, and, while condemning the practice of abortion, the Church still holds out the offer of mercy and forgiveness to those who have been victims to the deceitful pressures of the world and have made the tragic choice to kill their own children or who have facilitated abortions for those seeking them.
It is sometimes asked why does the Orthodox Church celebrate the Sunday of Orthodoxy on the first Sunday of Great Lent. What does this feast have to do with fasting?
We have just finished the first week of Great Lent for this year. Hopefully, we have changed to some degree in order to enter more into the spirit of the fast. Great Lent is supposed to prepare us to celebrate joyfully the feast of the Lord’s Resurrection. But in a greater way, it is meant to be a school of true Christianity, a time of repentance and redirecting our steps back onto the true path. With all of the cares of contemporary life, we often get distracted from “the one thing essential.” However, after participating in the deeply moving services of the first week, having entered into a “retreat” as it were, with ten hours daily of prayer and strict fasting, we hopefully will now spend the rest of the fast concentrated, each according to his strength, in the true meaning of our faith.
Lenten Pastoral Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery , March 28- 30, 2022 - 03/11/22
Where Holy Trinity Monastery – 1407 Robinson Road, Mohawk, NY 13407 When March 28-30, 2022. Retreat officially begins on Tuesday, March 29; Midnight Office at 5:00 AM. Monday, March 28 is designated as a travel day – Supper at 7:00 PM, followed by Great Compline. Cost Registration cost is $150 per person and does not include lodging accommodations. Who Can Attend Clergy (deacons and priests) of the Eastern American and Canadian Dioceses ROCOR and Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, as well as attendees of Holy Trinity Seminary. All others please contact diocesan office at (201) 940-7340 or office@eadiocese.org to inquire about attending the conference. Lodging Monastery Guesthouse 1407 Robinson Road Mohawk, NY 13407 (315) 858-0131 Red Roof Inn & Suites 100 Marginal Road Herkimer, NY 13350 (315) 866-0490 www.redroof.com/property/NY/Herkimer/RRI338 Airport Those who wish to fly to Jordanville must fly to Albany International Airport (ALB) and send their flight information to Abbot Cyprian (Alexandrou) at cyprian@hts.edu in order to arrange for pick-up and drop-off. Services All clergy will concelebrate with Their Graces, Bishops Nicholas of Manhattan and Luke of Syracuse, at the Hierarchal Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in Holy Trinity Cathedral on Wednesday, March 30. Clergy are asked to bring their own black vestments. Speaker The main speaker at the pastoral conference will be Deacon Andrei Psarev: "Pivotal Points of the History of the Russian Church Abroad." Registration Registration must be completed online at www.eadiocese.org.
Где Св. Троицкий монастырь – 1407 Robinson Road, Mohawk, NY 13407 Когда 28-30 марта 2022 г. Говение официально начинается во вторник, 29 марта; Полунощница в 5:00 ч. Понедельник, 28 марта – день размещения – ужин в 19:00 ч. затем Великое повечерие. Стоимость $150 с каждого. Цена не включает проживание в гостинице. Участники Духовенство (диакона и священники) Восточно-Американской и Канадской епархий РПЦЗ и Патриарших приходов в США, а также учащиеся Св. Троицкой семинарии. Другим лицам, желающим принят участие в совещании, необходимо обратиться в епархиальную канцелярию по телефону (201) 940-7340 or office@eadiocese.org. Размещение Монастырская гостница 1407 Robinson Road Mohawk, NY 13407 (315) 858-0131 Red Roof Inn & Suites 100 Marginal Road Herkimer, NY 13350 (315) 866-0490 www.redroof.com/property/NY/Herkimer/RRI338 Аэропорт Желающим путешествовать самолетом в Джорданвилль следует прибыть в аэропорт Albany International Airport (ALB) и послать информацию о прибытии игум. Киприану (Александру) на эл. адрес cyprian@hts.edu для организации встречи и проводов. Службы Все духовенство cослужит Преосвященнейшим епископам Манхэттенскому Николаю и Сиракузскому Луке за Архиерейской Литургией Преждеосвященных Даров в Св. Троицком соборе в среду, 30 марта. Духовенству следует привезти собственное черное облачение. Докладчик Главный докладчик на Пастырском совещании –диакон Андрей Псарев: "Ключевые моменты в истории Русской Зарубежной Церкви". Регистрация Регистрироваться следует на епархиальной странице www.eadiocese.org.
The History of the Russian Orthodox Church in Australia - 03/11/22
With the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, First Hierarch of ROCOR and ruling bishop of the Diocese of Australia and New Zealand, Holy Trinity Publications is pleased to announce the publication of a new and enhanced edition of The History of the Russian Orthodox Church in Australia, by the diocesan chancellor Protopresbyter Michael Protopopov. This comprehensive chronicle elucidates larger themes from the global history and mission of the Church Abroad and of Orthodox diasporas more generally, from which we can all gain understanding for our present circumstances. Through Fr. Michael’s account we see the Church’s role in providing a religious and cultural home, as well as material assistance, to emigres and refugees whilst also serving as a beacon of the light of Christ in a multicultural, liberal society.
The feast of the Meeting of the Lord is a wonderful, great feast which happens just before the solemnity of the beginning of Great Lent. Its afterfeast’s length depends on when Lent commences. This year, we have a full afterfeast, since Pascha is relatively late this year.
The feast of the Three Hierarchs, Sts. Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom, is the feast of our Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. More information about this feast can be found on the seminary website and facebook page.
The feast of Theophany comes at the end of the holy day season, called “Sviatki,” or “Holy Days.” Originally being one feast of the Theophany, or “Appearance of God” in the early centuries of the Church, in the fourth century, the feast of the Nativity became a feast by itself. The two feasts are like twins in the way they are celebrated.
The monastery is now enjoying and celebrating the feast of our Lord’s Holy Nativity. The Lord even provided us with seasonable snowy weather. The brethren have decorated the monastery and seminary with lights and Christmas trees. The church has been filled with poinsettias. The choir has had practices to improve the chanting of the many special hymns and melodies.
The Nativity Issue of Pravoslavnaia Rus' is Now Available for Download - 01/02/22
The Nativity Issue of Pravoslavnaia Rus' is Now Available for Download
The fourth and final issue of Holy Trinity Monastery's Russian-language journal Pravoslavnaia Rus' for 2021 may be downloaded as a free PDF directly from the publisher's website.
In this issue:
1. Nativity Epistle of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad. 2. Archbisop Dimitri of Kherson and Odessa. Homily on the Day of the Nativity of Christ. 3. On Christian Burial of the Dead. 4. From the History of the Chinese Ecclesial Mission (Conclusion) 5. Matushka Elena Perekrestov. Memories of Archimandrite Iov (Kotenko, 1926-2021) 6. About the private library of Holy Trinity Monastery 7. About monastic obediences. The Apiary.
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Очередной номер русскоязычного журнала Свято-Троицкого монастыря можно скачать бесплатно на сайте издательства.
В текущем номере:
1. РОЖДЕСТВЕНСКОЕ ПОСЛАНИЕ Высокопреосвященнейшего ИЛАРИОНА, митрополита Восточно-Американского и Нью-Йоркского, Первоиерарха Русской Зарубежной Церкви 2. Димитрий, Архиепископ Херсонский и Одесский. Слово в день Рождества Христова 3. О христианском погребении умерших 4. Изъ исторіи Китайской Духовной Миссіи (Окончаніе) 5. Матушка Елена Перекрестова. Памяти архимандрита Иова (Котенко) 1926-2021 6. О книжном собрании Свято-Троицкого монастыря 7. О монастырских послушаниях. Пасека
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Feast of Saint Herman and Saint Spyridon - 12/24/21
Our fathers established the feast of the Venerable Father Herman of Alaska on December 12 (25th N.S.) in part to provide a pious means of emphasizing that while following the Church Calendar it would be inappropriate to break the Fast by engaging in Christmas celebrations on the Gregorian Calendar. Thus the creation of the annual St Herman’s conferences at this time.
St. Nicholas of Myra is perhaps, after the Mother of God, the most beloved by Russians of all the saints. Every home traditionally has at least an icon of St. Nicholas besides of the Saviour and the Virgin Mary.
On November 21 (Old Style)/ December 4 (New Style), the Church celebrates one of its twelve main feasts, that of The Entrance of the Theotokos Into the Temple. During Matins, the katavasia of the canon consist of the Irmosoi of the feast of the Holy Nativity. Thus in this way, the faithful hear for the first time hymns of the upcoming feast. As we approach the feast of the Nativity of Christ, the Church more and more uses hymns concerning the incarnation of Christ, thus preparing us gradually for the celebration. On this day, His Grace, Bishop Luke, celebrated the Divine Liturgy, along with the monastery clergy.
Holy Trinity Publications visits Orthodox communities in England - 11/12/21
With the blessing of Bishop Luke of Syracuse, abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, staff of Holy Trinity Publications (the monastery’s publishing arm) made a visit to the United Kingdom from October 9 - 21. Since mid-2019, Holy Trinity Publications titles have been widely available in the UK & Europe through Oxbow Books, an Oxford-based book distributor. Among the aims of the trip was to publicize this arrangement and increase the visibility of these books in the UK, in particular the works of some of their recently published British authors.
The Lady and Her Temple: An Orthodox Appraisal of the Temple Theology of Margaret Barker - A Brief Summary by Priest John Boddecker - 11/10/21
In response to a request from the students at our Seminary for a better understanding of the writings of Dr. Margret Barker I appealed to our professor Father John Boddecker, instructor in Biblical Studies for his assistance. This is a short summary of his longer work to be posted shortly.
Even though Fr. Job was basically a shut-in for several years, a multitude of people made their way to Holy Trinity Monastery for his funeral from all over the country. People truly loved this meek and very devout monk who spent 72 years of his life living in our holy abode, laboring for the monastery and his salvation. I think he would have been truly amazed at the number of people who came to bid him farewell, to this true and faithful servant of our Lord.
When I started visiting the Holy Trinity Monastery and eventually came here to live and study in seminary in the fall of 1980, I quickly came to know the fathers and brethren of the monastery. All of them, of course, had their individual characteristics. Fr. Job was one that truly stood out for his humility and tranquility of soul.
The early morning hours of November 6, 2021, the feast day of the Icon of the Mother of God «Joy of All Who Sorrow», saw the passing of Archimandrite Iov (Kotenko), the oldest monastic of Holy Trinity Monastery, who had spent 72 years within its walls. While liturgy was being celebrated in the monastery cathedral, Father Iov reposed peacefully at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness.
Archimandrite Iov was born on April 26, 1926 in the pious family of Sergei Ivanovich and Olga Dmitrievna Kotenko. In baptism he was named Ivan (John). He was the youngest of three children – the older siblings were named Nicholas and Claudia. Ivan’s childhood and youth were spent in Kharkov. The children wore crosses, and their mother had to send the children away to their grandmother’s house in an outlying village whenever a certain commissar or committee would appear in the city that were likely to demand that the children take off their crosses. Through some miraculous happenstances, all three were able to avoid joining the Communist Pioneer Youth.
24th ANNIVERSARY OF THE MURDER OF BROTHER JOSE - 10/31/21
The guardian of the Myrrh-Streaming Montreal Icon of the Mother of God of Iveron suffered a martyric death on October 31, 1997. He is buried in the cemetery of the Holy Trinity Monastery. Since his burial many have been the pilgrims who have made their way to his grave to honor his memory and to ask his prayers before the throne of God.
Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God - 10/14/21
On the first of October, the Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God. It is especially and solemnly celebrated in the Russian Orthodox Church. This is due to the fact that the pious Russian people regard the events associated with the feast as the beginning of their salvation, in that the pagans who inhabited what is now Russia and Ukraine were humbled by God in the miracle of the appearance of the Theotokos in the church in Constantinople, showing Her intercession before Her Son and Lord, so that the Christians would be saved and the heathen defeated, when the pagans were set to conquer the capital city of the Byzantine Empire.
One of the most precious relics housed in the monastery cathedral is a piece of the cincture, or the girdle of the Mother of God, which is contained in the icon of the Protection, which is brought out and placed in the middle of the church for the veneration by the faithful.
On this day, it is traditional to commemorate all of the past and present choir directors of the monastery as well as the present day singers in the choir. May the Lord through the prayers of His Most Blessed Mother inspire them to lead us in prayer.
Orthodox Church Teaching on Whether there is a Danger of Spreading Disease Through Holy Communion, Kissing the Hand of the Priest, or Our Presence in the Holy Temple of God - 10/10/21
Feast of the Exaltation of the Life- Giving Cross - 09/27/21
The monastery is very blessed to have among its many precious relics a piece of the Cross upon which our Saviour Jesus Christ was crucified. It is contained in a pectoral cross once worn by the ever-memorable Archbishop Averky, a previous abbot of our monastery, when he was an archimandrite in Eastern Europe. As a bishop, he had the relic of the Cross placed in his pectoral cross, also made of wood, and that cross is used for a couple of the feasts of the Cross, including the Exaltation.
The first feast of the Church Year is the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos. This is very apt since her birth is, as the troparion of the feast states, the beginning of the construction of our salvation.
Commemoration of the Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae - 09/19/21
On the day before this feast, Saturday, a pilgrimage arrived from Hartford, Connecticut, from the ROCOR parish of St. Panteleimon, along with their parish priest, the Very Rev. Dionisii Nalitov. From its foundation, the monastery has been conceived as a place of pilgrimage to provide spiritual solace for the faithful, so in need of comfort in a difficult world. We are glad to be able to once again receive pilgrims, and we pray that all those who came here went home renewed and filled with the grace of God.
Feast of Saint Alexander Nevsky in Howell NJ - 09/12/21
Between the 11th and 12th of September, His Grace Bishop Luke participated in the festivities for the 800th Anniversary of the birth of Saint Alexander Nevsky at the St. Alexander Nevsky Catrhedral in Howell , NY. For a complete report click here
The first abbot of the Pochaev Lavra in Volynia, Little Russia, was St. Job, who besides being a holy guide of monasticism, was a fervent defender of Orthodoxy in an area besieged by the Roman Catholics. His zeal was in publishing the printed word. His struggles in this way were later continued by an offshoot of this monastery, founded in the 1920’s in Slovakia. Towards the end of World War II, the printing brotherhood of this monastery was forced to flee the onslaught of the Red Army, and most of them eventually found their way to the New World, to our Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York. Glory be to God, we continue to this day their enlightening work in the printed word.
Visitation of the Hawaiian Myrrh-Streaming Icon - 09/09/21
Our Russian Orthodox Church Abroad has been blessed with the appearance of several myrrh-streaming icons in recent years. Perhaps due to the grave and frightful circumstances that we find ourselves in for a number of years, the Mother of God desired to show us Her love and care for us sinners, to strengthen us to forebear all that is happening and that which might come to pass.
Great Consecration of the Church of the Protection of the Mother of God in Rochester, NY - 09/06/21
It was with great joy that the faithful of the Russian Orthodox parish of the Protection of the Mother of God of the city of Rochester, New York, were finally able to have their beautiful church fully consecrated. This long-awaited day was postponed from last year due to the Covid crisis.
His Grace, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, along with His Grace Bishop Luke of Syracuse, Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, presided at the consecration and the Divine Liturgy that followed on September 6, 2021.
Sunday, People's Commemoration of St. Job of Pochaev and Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God - 09/05/21
The Pochaev Lavra in present day Ukraine, is one of the most venerated holy places of Holy Rus.’ It has had a very difficult and complicated history due to the struggle to maintain Orthodoxy in that part of ancient Rus,’ and is very much connected with the history of our monastery as well as the whole Russian Orthodox Church Abroad.
COMMEMORATION OF POCHAEV ICON AND ST. JOB - 09/04/21
The traditions and history of the Holy Trinity Monastery are very much connected with the famous Lavra of the Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos in Volynia, present-day Ukraine. Although the monastery was started back in 1930 by Archimandrite Panteleimon, they were joined in 1946 by a group of fourteen monks from the St. Job of Pochaev Monastery in Ladomirovo, Slovakia, who had fled the onslaught of the area by the Red Army and eventually found their new home in Holy Trinity Monastery. Thus began the intimate connection with the traditions of the Pochaev Lavra, one of the most famous of Russian monasteries.
Iveron Icon of the Mother of God in Jordanville Sept. 8 - Sept. 10 2021 - 09/03/21
The Hawaian Myrrstreaming Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will be at the Monastery from the afternoon of September 8 to the afternoon of Septemebr 10.
The Hawaian Myrrstreaming Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will be at the Monastery from the afternoon of September 8 to the afternoon of Septemebr 10.
On Wednesday Septemeber 8, 2021
3:50 PM Greeting of the Iveron Icon followed by Vespers and Matins
7:15 PM Compline followed by moleben and Akathist to the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God
On August 18/31 the Holy Church celebrates the memory of the holy Martyrs Florus and Laurus. This was the name’s day of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Flor. Metropolitan Laurus was abbot of the Holy Trinity Monasery for 32 years and was one of the group of monastics from the St. Job of Pochaev Monastery in Slovakia, who immigrated to the United States after World War II to join the brotherhood already established here by Archimandrite Panteleimon. Fr. Flor was also part of this group.
FEAST OF THE DORMITION OF THE MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS - 08/28/21
The feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God has always been celebrated in the monastery with great solemnity. The Most Holy Theotokos is greatly beloved by all Orthodox Christians and especially by monastics, who look to Her for guidance and aid in their struggles. In Mount Athos, the “garden” of the Most Holy Virgin, She is considered the abbess of all the monasteries. In our monastery, we have a thread from Her most sacred belt as well as a miraculous copy of the Pochaev Icon, the mother house, so to speak, of our monastery.
FEAST OF THE HOLY TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD - 08/19/21
During the Dormition Fast, a strict, two-week fast before the feast of the Falling Asleep of the Most Holy Theotokos, the Holy Church provides its faithful with the joyous feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, when Jesus Christ ascended Mount Tabor in Galilee with his holy Apostles Peter, James and John and was transfigured before them, being accompanied by the Old Testament holy men, Moses and Elias.
In the popular tradition of Russian Orthodox people, the feast of the Procession of the Cross, which falls on the first day of the Dormition Fast, this day is called the “First Saviour” feast of August. Holy Transfiguration is the “Second Saviour,” and the Feast of the Image-Not-Made-By-Hands is the “Third Saviour.”
+Archimandrite Paneleimon, Founder and Builder of Holy Trinity Monastery - 08/10/21
It is impossible to imagine Orthodoxy in America without the Holy Trinity Monastery. Not only the monastery, but the whole Orthodox world in the West owes so much to this humble, ascetic who almost single-handedly built what was called the Lavra of the Russian Diaspora by the ever-memorable Metropolitan Anastassy, the second First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad.
Feast of St. Olga at Quick to Hear Convent of the Mother of God - 07/24/21
Bishop Luke designated a summer feast for the Convent of the Mother of God, Quick to Hear. And so on July 24th the sisters celebrated their first annual feast for St Olga, Princess of Russia.
Russian History Museum at Holy Trinity Monastery Lends Unique Artifacts to Tsarskoe Selo - 07/24/21
ST PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – The Russian History Museum is honored to loan fifty rare objects to Russia’s Tsarskoe Selo Museum-Preserve in St. Petersburg, for a new exhibition on view July 23 – October 18, 2021. At the Sovereign’s Stirrup («При государеве стремени. Конные эскорты России с XVI века и до наших дней») presents the history of mounted military units that escorted Russia’s tsars and emperors. A significant part of the exhibition is dedicated to the history of His Imperial Majesty’s Own Escort, the elite Cossack Guards unit that served as the emperor’s personal detail from the early 19th century until the Russian Revolution.
Collecting Stories: The Search for the Romanovs - 07/24/21
July 29 @ 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
An exclusive online conversation with Peter Sarandinaki, President of SEARCH Foundation
In July of 1918, fourteen members of the Romanov family were murdered at Ekaterinburg and at Alapayevsk. On February 7th, 1919, Nikolai Sokolov began his investigation into the murder of the Imperial Family, and from May to July of 1919 he collected forensic evidence that to this day forms our understanding of what happened in those final days and hours.
Feast of Saints Peter and Paul and 40th Anniversary of Ordination of Bishop Luke to the Priesthood - 07/12/21
Today, on July 12 (NS), the feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, the monastery and seminary celebrated the 40th anniversary of its superior and rector to the priesthood. This feast is always celebrated with great solemnity in the monastery for what these apostles signify for the Church, but this year was very special.
40th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood of His Grace Bishop Luke - 07/09/21
On July 12 (New Style), the Church celebrates the memory of the Holy and All-Praised Apostles Peter and Paul. On this day, 40 years ago, our dear abbot and rector, His Grace Bishop Luke, commemorates the 40th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. He was ordained by the ever-memorable Bishop Laurus, abbot of the monastery at that time and future metropolitan and First-Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. To celebrate this jubilee, the brethren of the monastery have organized a reception after lunch on the day of the feast outside under a tent. All neighbors and pilgrims are welcome to participate in this event in which we wish to express our love and support of our spiritual father.
On the eve of Holy Spirit Day, Sunday afternoon, Small Compline was served before supper with the reading of the Canon to the Holy Spirit. After supper, Matins was served, in preparation for the altar feast of the monastery cathedral.
On June 20, the great feast of Pentecost was celebrated at Holy Trinity Monastery with the usual solemnity. Last year, due to the Covid pandemic, the monastery celebrated this feast with much less pomp, although with great joy.
Sixth Sunday after Pascha and Graduation at Holy Trinity Seminary - 06/06/21
When Pascha comes at a later date, the graduation celebration is made even more festive with the singing of “Christ is Risen…” So it was this year; the 73rd commencement was solemnly celebrated together with Paschal hymns of joy.
His Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada was invited and willingly came to participate in his alma mater’s celebration. Vladyka has always been a great support of the monastery and seminary.
The Vigil was celebrated accompanied by the chanting of the seminary-monastery choir, under the direction of its regent, Deacon Nicholas Kotar. The divine liturgy on Sunday concelebrated by Archbishop Gabriel and the rector of the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary, His Grace, Bishop Luke. During the Sixth Hour, seminarian Peter James was tonsured a reader. He is in the Graduate of Divinity Program of the seminary. We wish him, his wife, Lucina and their baby daughter, Sophia, good health and salvation.
After the consecration of the Holy Gifts, Bishop Luke ordained Monk Subdeacon Theodore (Stanway) the be a hierodeacon. Fr. Theodore graduated today with a Sumna com Laude from the Master of Divinity, recently established in the seminary. Fr. Theodore, besides working in the bookstore, also bakes bread and prosphora among other various obediences.
At 2PM there was a procession of seminary faculty to the cathedral of the monastery to commence a Thanksgiving Moleben for the end of the school year. For further details about the graduation service, please visit our seminary website: www.hts.edu
Dear pilgrims and vistors to Holy Trinity Monastery
By the directive of our ruling Bishop, Metropolitan Hilarion, pilgrims are discouraged from visiting the Monastery for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
If you have any questions regarding visiting please write to info@jordanville.org
BISHOP LUKE CELEBRATES LITURGY IN ST. ANDREW CATHEDRAL - 05/31/21
On May 23, the Sunday of the Paralytic Bishop Luke traveled to St. Petersburg, Florida to represent the Metropolitan at our parish of St Andrew the General.
On Saturday morning Bishop Luke attended the Divine Liturgy in honor of the translation of the relics of St Nicholas. Every Saturday a newly formed missionary community meets at the parish for Liturgy in English. Father Stephen Zaremba, the head of the mission, served the Liturgy and asked Bishop Luke to speak to the community afterwards about the Monastery, the Seminary and answer questions.
Concerning the Tradition of Long Hair and Beards - 05/23/21
The question of the appropriateness of long hair and beards is frequently put to traditional Orthodox clergy. A comprehensive article appeared in Orthodox Life concerning clergy dress in the J./F. 1991 issue. At this time we would like to address the topic of clergy appearance, i.e. hair and beards.
The Russian Orthodox Church celebrates on the Tuesday after Bright Week a special commemoration of all of those reposed in the Lord, and pannikhidas are served for the first time after Pascha. In actuality, due to the present culture in which we live and due to work requirements, pannikhidas are served on St. Thomas Sunday, but here in the monastery, a universal pannikhida is served on Radonitsa itself.
Pascha is always served with great joy in the monastery. One time, someone described Pascha in one of our great cathedrals as being very glorious and solemn, whereas Pascha in the monastery is warm and very moving. It seems to me that this is due to the long and very serious atmosphere in the monastery during Great Lent, with the daily and long, grace-filled Lenten services impart a treasure-house of divine grace to all those who are struggling in the monastery.
Matins for Holy and Great Saturday, commonly known as “The Burial Service,” is served at 2 AM in the monastery, unlike as in parishes, for which this time according to the Church’s typicon, is very impractical. The service starts with the Praises, which are interspersed with verses from the 17th Kathisma of the Psalter. The serving clergy take turns reading the praises while the choir chants the kathisma verses. Later on, the Canon of Holy and Great Saturday is sung and read before the Tomb of the Lord, which is the center of all liturgical activity for the services of Holy Saturday.
One of the most moving services of Passion Week is the matins service of Holy Friday, during which there are twelve readings from the four Gospels concerning our Lord’s salvific Passion. As is traditional, there was a ringing of a large bell at the end of each Gospel reading, according to the number of the reading. At the end of the twelfth reading there was a light trezvon, symbolizing that the Lord’s salvific feat on the Cross was finished.
FEAST OF THE ENTRY OF THE LORD INTO JERUSALEM - 04/27/21
“Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord,” exclaimed the children of Israel, as our Lord proceeded into the Holy City, surrounded by many people who thought that he had come to overthrow the Romans. This after it was widely reported about how He had raised Lazarus from the dead.
The feast of the Annunciation is celebrated differently every year, depending on what day it falls during Great Lent of Bright Week. Neither Great Lent nor Bright Week disappears on this great feast of the Mother of God, and a unique way enhances the feast.
Coronavirus Update for Pilgrims to Holy Trinity Monastery - 04/07/21
By the directive of our ruling Bishop, Metropolitan Hilarion, pilgrims are discouraged from visiting the Monastery for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
Dear pilgrims and vistors to Holy Trinity Monastery
By the directive of our ruling Bishop, Metropolitan Hilarion, pilgrims are discouraged from visiting the Monastery for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
Due to continuing Covid restrictions the Monastery Guesthouse is currently closed and we are not able to accomodate overnight stays at the Monastery.
If you have any questions regarding visiting please write to info@jordanville.org
After the first week of Great Lent, one of strict fasting and long and compunctionate services, the monastery celebrated the Sunday of Orthodoxy, the triumph over the heresy of iconoclasm. The Divine Liturgy on Sunday was presided over by His Grace, Bishop Luke of Syracuse and abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery as well as rector of the Holy Trinity Seminary. Vladyka was co-served by the monastery clergy. During the Small Entrance, Igumen Theophylact was raised to the rank of archimandrite by Vladyka.
At 3PM on Sunday, March 14, after the usual hierarchal Divine Liturgy, the brethren of the monastery along with the seminarians and gathered for Great Vespers, which started as a hierarchal service with the formal meeting of our abbot, His Grace, Bishop Luke, and his vesting.
On February 2/15 the Holy Church celebrates the feast of the Meeting of the Lord. In the Russian Church this feast is considered a feast of the Mother of God, even though it has several aspects of a feast of the Lord. Another interesting detail of this feast is that the afterfeast can be either a full week, such as happens this year, due to the late date of Pascha, or it can be non-existent if Pascha falls on the earliest day possible. The rubrics are very extensive to cover all the possibilities of celebrating this feast due to its proximity to the Lenten Triodion.
The feast of the Three Hierarchs, Our Holy Fathers, Basil the Great, Gregory the Great, and John Chrysostom, is the feast day of the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. This year, the seminary was blessed to have the presence and service of three hierarchs! Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, and our own Bishop Luke of Syracuse, presided at the festive services.
The feast of Theophany is the culmination of the church festal period known as “The Holy Days,” in the Russian Orthodox Church, which commences with the feast of the Lord’s Nativity. During this period, there are no full prostrations in church and no fasting from animal products.
The monastery has always celebrated the three major feasts of the Church calendar in complete fulfillment of the Church typicon, that is, with festal services for three days. This includes the feasts of Nativity, Pascha and Pentecost. In this way, there is an atmosphere of spiritual joy which pervades the monastery. Despite the current difficulties, the monastery once again was able to fulfill this if even with somewhat more simplicity this year.
FEAST OF THE ENTRANCE OF THE THEOTOKOS INTO THE TEMPLE - 12/04/20
On November 21 (Old Style)/ December 4 (New Style), the Church celebrates one its twelves main feasts. During Matins, the katavasia of the canon consist of the Irmosoi of the feast of the Holy Nativity. Thus in this way, the faithful hear for the first time, hymns of the upcoming feast. As we approach the feast, the Church more and more reveals to us hymns from the service of Nativiy, thus preparing us gradually for the celebration.
On this day, His Grace, Bishop Luke, celebrated the Divine Liturgy, along with the monastery clergy.
JUBILEE OF THE HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL AT HOLY TRINITY MONASTERY - 11/26/20
Due to the COVID crisis, the monastery and seminary, which originally had planned very festive commemorations of several jubilees this year, has had to greatly diminish the original plans. So it was that on November 26, 2020, which was also Thanksgiving Day in the United States, the monastery commemorated the 70th anniversary of the consecration of the cathedral of the Holy Trinity Monastery.
The third issue of Holy Trinity Monastery's Russian-language journal Pravoslavnaia Rus' for 2020 may be downloaded as a free PDF directly from the publisher's website.
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Православная Русь is published four times a year and made available free of charge in electronic form. Donations towards the ongoing costs of production are accepted:
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Вышел в свет очередной третий номер «Православной Руси» за 2020 г.
1. Диакон Андрей Псарев. Слово на Праздник Преображения Господня 2. Митрополит Макарий (Невский). О воспитании детей 3. Житие преподобного Леонтия, Архимандрита Михайловского, чудотворца 4. Опыт исторического описания Свято-Троицкого мужского монастыря в Джорданвилле 5. Архиепископ Аверкий (Таушев) и его наследие. 6. Из проповеднического наследия архиепископа Аверкия (Таушева) Слово на Успение Пресвятыя Богородицы Слово на Усекновение Честной Главы Иоанна Крестителя Слово в день Рождества Пресвятой Богородицы 8 сентября 7. Личные документы священнослужителей в фондах архива Свято-Троицкой духовной Семинарии в Джорданвилле. Послужной список протоиерея Василия Шапошникова. 8. Храм на берегу Волги материалы к истории Петропавловской церкви в селе Стрелка. Къ 180-летию основания *****************
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On October 18 (31 N.S.), the Church commemorates the memory of the holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke. This is the Saint’s Day of our superior and rector, His Grace Bishop of Syracuse. As is traditional, Vladyka served the divine liturgy at 6 AM, together with the clergy of the monastery as well as some guest clergy. A short moleben was served at the end of the liturgy, offering prayers for our Vladyka. All those attending the service wished Vladyka good health and God’s strength in his church obediences.
FEAST OF THE PROTECTION OF THE MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS - 10/14/20
On October 14 (New Calendar), the Russian Orthodox Church solemnly celebrates the feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, which commemorates the vision of the Holy Virgin in the church of Blachernae, in the mid-10th century, during an All-Night Vigil, during which the faithful were imploring the aid of the Mother of God during a siege from pagan tribes of the ancestors of the Russians.
The weekend of October 10 and 11, the Kursk Icon was present in the monastery, having been brought here by His Grace, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, for the comfort of the monastery and the seminary, as well as the neighbors, for whom the monastery is their spiritual home. On Saturday, after lunch, the icon was taken around to bless all of the rooms of the monastery as well as the seminary dormitory. For some of our new seminarians, this was the first time that they had the opportunity to venerate in person this ancient holy relic of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The monastery has an immense blessing in having in its possession innumerable relics of saints. One of our most treasured relics is a piece of the Honorable and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord. It is set in a beautifully carved, wooden archimandrite’s cross which belonged to the ever-memorable Archbishop Averky, when he was an archimandrite in the Carpathian mountains area of north-western Hungary, before World War II. Eventually, Vladyka used his cross for the setting of the wondrous relic, which itself was placed in a larger Maltese shaped cross, and which is used in the monastery for feasts of the Cross, especially the Exaltation of the Cross.
FEAST OF THE BEHEADING OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST - 09/11/20
Although the feast of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist is not one of the twelves great feasts of the Orthodox Church, nevertheless it is considered a great feast, as the Baptist was called by the Lord the greatest of men who had every been born. The feast commemorates several things. First of all, it is a day of great sorrow, that the holiest of men was put to death, not due to any fault of his won, but due to lust and envy. Also it signifies the death of a man who connected the Old Testament with the New. He himself stated that he had to become smaller while Christ would become greater.
Due to the COVID-19 crisis, for the first time in memory, the monastery did not have its annual Labor Day weekend celebration of the memory of St. Job of Pochaev and the Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. Due to this, the Pochaev Icon was not taken to the cemetery church of the Dormition on the feast of the Dormition as has been the usual custom, to be brought back in procession on Saturday of the Labor Day weekend.
Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - 08/28/20
The feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos has always been celebrated with great solemnity in the monastery. Traditionally, it has been tied into our St. Job of Pochaev Pilgrimages on Labor Day weekend, and even if the afterfeast of the Dormition ended before Labor Day weekend, we would still keep blue vestments and sing hymns of the Dormition together with the Pochaev Icon and St. Job.
The Holy Trinity Monastery has renewed the practice of serving the Lamentations and Burial of the Most Holy Theotokos in our monastery. Forty years ago, the English language mission of the monastery, served by Hieromonk Ioannikiy and then later the late Archpriest Laurence Girard served this service in English at the conclusion of the regular All-Night Vigil in the cathedral of the monastery. After a few years, unfortunately, the practice stopped.
In 2011 Holy Trinity Monastery began making 100% Pure Beeswax Candles. Our standard has been since the begiining not to mix any chemicals or parrafin in the wax. Over the years we have been gradually increasing our production and variety of candles available. In 2019 the candle factory was expanded to better support the candle making operation. We hope by the end of 2021 to further exand the candle factory bringing in new equipment. There are many areas that need to be worked on in terms of upgrading electricity, bringing water to the building and adding new equipment. We ask for your continued support to be able to continue this work. You may purchase our candles here. We are now also accepting Amazon Pay.
In 2014 the Monastery Apiary suffered major damage due to a fire. Since that time a new building has been built to house the workshop for processing honey and every year more and more beehives are been added. Currenly a building is being prepapred made out of straw walls to house the beehives during the winter. We hope to soon be able to offer our honey products online. Asking for prayers and support to continue this work.
In January 2020 the ceiling of the Monastery Refectory was refinished because over the years much damage was done to the ceiling from various leaks due to plumbing problems.
Expansion and Renovation of Upper Level Holy Trinity Church Supplies Store - 08/22/20
Holy Trinity Monastery Bookstore is now Holy Trinity Church Supplies Store. In the past eight months we have been adding many more titles to our English and Russian books collection. In addition we are beginning to carry various church supplies for use in church and home as well as ecclesiastical clothing and vestments. The need arose for more space to stock all the items. The upper level store now houses all liturgical items, new and featured English and Russian books, English books and food items. The Lower Store houses all Russian books, vestments and ecclesiastical clothing. We hope in time to expand our range of products. We ask for your prayers and support.
The roof of the main office and residence building was in great need of repair. In several places the shingle roof had rotted and there was water damage in several areas. An appeal was issued in the fall of 2019 as the Monastery had decided to replace the shingle roof with a metal roof with a guarantee that this would last for many years. However the Monastery could not cover the $150, 000.00 price tag and the faithful overwhelmingly answered the appeal with generous donations to cover the expense of this project. The work began in the fall of 2019 and was interrupted by the winter climate. Thankfully due to the phased opening up of the economy in New York State in May of this year the work continued until the end of July. We thank you for all your generous support so that this necessary work could be carried out to preserve our home. The Monastery has many repair needs but as our Abbot stated that without a roof over the main monastery building we could not continue our mission.
New Roof on Saint John of Kronstadt Chapel by the Lake - 08/22/20
The roof of the chapel of Saint John of Kronstadt and Saint John of Rila was in great need of repair. It was built through the labors of a bulgarian refugee Dimitri Blachev who was taken into the monastery by Vladyka Laurus back in the 1970s. Dimitri after laboring here for many years decided it was time to leave and in gratitude to the Monastery he built this chapel in typical balkan style. The roof needed to be replaced as it was falling in and the beautiful iconography inside was in danger of being destroyed. Taking advantage of the roofers who were in the monastery replacing the roof of the main residence and office building it was decided to go ahead and replace the roof with a wood shingle roof.
Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord - 08/19/20
There are antecedents of the Orthodox feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord in the Old Testament feast of the harvest. For this reason, it is the tradition to bless the first fruits on this feast which comes towards the end of the summer, at least in the northern hemisphere. Such was the influence of Orthodoxy on the common people in old Russia, that pious Christians would not eat any fruit until it had been blessed on this feast. In our world of supermarkets and globalization, when fruit can be purchased at any time of year, this has lost meaning among most people.
The Church year has four fasting periods, or periods of time of abstention from dairy products and all other animal products. Occasionally fish or seafood is allowed, depending on the strictness of the fast.
The clergy and parishioners of the Church of the Holy Great-Martyr and Healer Panteleimon in Hartford, CT recently celebrated their patronal feast day. Bishop Luke of Syracuse, vicar of the Eastern American Diocese, came to share in the joy of the feast. Praying alongside the hierarch on Saturday, August 8, at All-Night Vigil and on Sunday, August 9, at Divine Liturgy were parish rector Dionysy Nalitov and Protodeacon Peter Markevich (cleric of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, accompanying His Grace).
Refectory Frescoes Restoration by Ekaterina Piskareva - 08/08/20
Due to water damage and the humid climate the monastery refectory which has beautiful walls painited with frescoes was in great need of restoration in certain areas. The services of Ekaterina Piskareva were contracted and a a few weeks of labor with her expertise the frescoes were restored to their original beauty.
On July 28 (N.S.), the feast of Equal-to-the-Apostles, Grand Prince Vladimir, His Grace, Bishop Luke, our abbot, presided at the hierarchal liturgy. During the Liturgy, after the consecration of the Holy Gifts, Vladyka ordained to the deaconate, Subdeacon Paul Siewers, from the ROCOR mission of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Fr. Deacon Paul then remained in the monastery for two weeks to practice, serving every day with the monastery clergy.
Since its inception as a feast in the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, after their canonization by the Church, the memory of the Royal Martyrs of Russia, has been solemnly kept by the monastery.
Archbishop Kyrill of San Francisco and Western America Protests Against California Ban on Church Singing - 07/13/20
OPEN LETTER to The Honourable Gavin Newsom, Governor of California from His Eminence Kyrill Archbishop of San Francisco and Western America in light of the decree issued by the Governor of California that forbids choral singing in churches.
Your Excellency,
I hereby express my protest against the recent prohibition of liturgical singing in houses of worship, which is an infringement of the rights and religious freedoms of the clergy and faithful of the Western American Diocese of the Russian Diaspora, the other Local Orthodox Churches, performing their ministry in this state, as well as other religious bodies.
On the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, July 12 (N.S.), which also was a Sunday this year, the monastery brotherhood had the joy of the tonsure to the sub deaconate of one of our own, Monk Paisios. He was tonsured during the Hours by our abbot, His Grace, Bishop Luke.
Pascha 2020 Issue of Pravoslavnaia Rus' - 05/24/20
The Pascha 2020 Issue of Pravoslavnaia Rus' is Now Available for Download
The first issue of Holy Trinity Monastery's Russian-language journal Pravoslavnaia Rus' for 2020 may be downloaded as a free PDF directly from the publisher's website.
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Православная Русь is published four times a year and made available free of charge in electronic form. Donations towards the ongoing costs of production are accepted:
1) Via Patreon (recurring donations) 2) Via Paypal 3) By phone - 315 538 5008 4) Please make your check out to 'Holy Trinity Monastery' and mail to:
Holy Trinity Publications P.O. Box 36 Jordanville, NY 13361
So that we may properly record your support, please note 'Православная Русь' in the memo field.
Homily for Great and Holy Saturday by Monk Theodore - 04/18/20
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Dear Brothers!
Today, God lies in the tomb, not as one dead, but as one resting from the completion of a great work. In the silence of this great and holy day, Our Lord keeps His Sabbath, having rendered a new creation by the work of His mighty hands.
Sermon by Bishop Luke on Great and Holy Friday - 04/17/20
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Holy is the Lord our God! Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal have mercy on us!
These and many other prayers and sacred writings characterize God as holy and the source of holiness.
The salvific struggle of the Son of God is completed, “In the grave bodily, but in Hades with Thy soul as God; in Paradise with the thief, and on the throne with the Father and the Spirit wast Thou Who fillest all things, O Christ the Inexpressible.”
Time and place disappear in the Grace-filled experience of the Body of Christ, the Church and the life of Orthodox Christians. However, God choose to be born in the flesh and to truly suffer and die so that He could work out our salvation though things of this world, beginning with His flesh and Blood and continuing to sanctify us through everything the Church offers us. He beckons us to receive into our bodies, to venerate, to touch the shroud before us, the incense we breathe, holy water, blessed salt, sanctified palms and pussy willows, myrrh from a streaming icon, our personal prayers, the sign of the cross, the struggle for virtue, the battle with sin, the endless invisible and visible means by which our Lord desires to commune with us and make us holy.
Dearly beloved brothers and sisters, piety is Orthodoxy, holiness in life, in everyday life where we commune with the Holy Spirit, Who is the Giver of Life, not death. Beware lest we fall into a carnal purely natural worldly understanding of these mysteries, which God has ordained, for our salvation. Empty religious forms will not satisfy our spirit and we will then seek pleasure and satisfaction in the passions, in endless worldly distractions, neo-idol worship. Be careful not to shake the simple hearted faith of those little ones among us by disinfecting the sacred, the Lord warns us about this. Yes it requires unshakable faith to move mountains, but our Creator tells us it is indeed possible. As we continue to repent, to grow in Christ, let us pray earnestly to God to forgive us for our weak faith, that He ever increase our faith so that we might put away sin, triviality, carnal thinking of the natural man, and enter into that which we are called, a life in the Holy Spirit, a spiritual life, and exclaim with St. David, “Take not Thy Holy Spirit from me but give me the Joy of Thy salvation!”
Based on the inspiration of the Eldress Agatha below, considering the difficulty of gathering at this time and having consulted with the fathers, the following suggestion is offered for blessing of Paschal baskets.
In compliance with the New York State Governor's Office Executive Order 202.10 pursuant on April 9, 2020, and the local authorities, Holy Trinity Monastery's worship services are now closed until further notice. All pilgrimages and visits by outside guests have been temporarily suspended. Under the present circumstances, the Seminary is employing distance learning technology.
Please maintain your prayer life and increase your spiritual struggles asking for God’s mercy and protection!
To the friends and supporters of Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary:
His Grace Bishop Luke, the Monastery Brethren, the Teachers, and Seminarians are praying for your health and safety during this plague that has been visited upon us. We all look forward to the end of this crisis and the ability for you to once again come and be with us so that we can pray together. Your support and generosity are what have allowed the Monastery to be here for over 90 years, praying for you and your departed loved ones.
In this time of crisis, we sadly have to point out a few unpleasant facts.
Visits to the monastery by pilgrims have been suspended by directive of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, who shares our concern for the health of the elderly fathers in our community. This has hurt us financially. Donations for the month of March are at half the level of the previous year.
Our suppliers, utility companies, and workers still need to receive payment for services and goods. We would ask each of you to please consider sending a special donation, or making a monthly pledge of support through PayPal, to the Monastery and Seminary to help sustain us through this period.
We would also ask that you pray to the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, and to St Job, Abbot, and Wonderworker of Pochaev for the health and welfare of the Brotherhood.
Statement by Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America - 03/28/20
With a sense of weighty responsibility not only for the eternal salvation of men’s souls, but also for the physical health of the clergy, monastics, parishioners, and worshipers of the Russian Church Abroad, I have been attentively following the development of events relating to the spread of the coronavirus, prayerfully beseeching for all God’s aid and the intercession of His Most-Pure Mother.
The current global outbreak of coronavirus dominates the daily headlines, with reports every day of new cases. Nevertheless, the divine services in our churches will continue, and Communion of the clergy and laity will be performed in the usual manner. In everything else, I ask that you undertake reasonable precautionary measures, adhering to common sense and the recommendations of local authorities, in order to preserve the health of the people and arrest the virus’ spread. If you are experiencing symptoms reminiscent of a cold, or if you have spent time with those who are ill, please have consideration for your neighbors, refrain from attending church, and pray at home.
The most important thing in these days is to preserve calm and inner peace, trusting in God. May the Lord help us not only to believe in Him, but also to trust in Him and in His guidance, that we might not lose spirit, and may act with goodly wisdom.
May the Lord keep you!
+HILARION Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ members of the Holy Trinity Monastery community!
Greetings in the Lord!
It has come to my attention that many are suffering from some form of stress induced psychosis as a result of the recent epidemic. This is characterized by continual worry, nervousness, anxiety, faintheartedness, panic etc. One of the causes for this spiritual malady is an obsession with news concerning the epidemic. This is confirmed by the world mental health organization, "The World Health Organization has a recommendation for mental health: only check the news once or twice a day."
I am issuing a directive to all members of our Holy Trinity community to limit themselves to no more than 15 minutes a day informing themselves about the epidemic.
The Lord commands,"Let not your heart be troubled..." We create our own spiritual problems by our obsession with these issues which do little positive towards our hope for salvation.
As true Orthodox Christians preparing for eternity, spend the extra time in heartfelt prayer, spiritual reading and other good works!
St. Dionysius on the Epidemic of Alexandria - 03/27/20
St. Dionysius the Great
St. Dionysius the Great was Pope of Alexandria from 248 to 264. During that time, the Church of Alexandria suffered horrible persecution. Just as that was dying down, an epidemic broke out in the city, just as Pascha was approaching. St. Dionysius described the epidemic, and the Church’s response, in a letter to some of his flock outside of Alexandria. It is especially relevant today, as our current church leaders try to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, which is also happening as we prepare for Pascha.
St. Dionysius’ letter was printed by Eusebius in his seminal Church History, chapter 7. The following English translation is by G.A. Williamson, published by Dorset Press in 1965 and again in 1984. *** [Eusebius writes:] Later, when a severe epidemic followed the war just as the festival [Pascha] was approaching, he [Dionysius] again communicated in writing with the Christian community, revealing the horrors of the disaster:
Other people would not think this a time for festival: they do not so regard this or any other time, even if, so far from being a time of distress, it is a time of unimaginable joy. Now, alas! all is lamentation, everyone in mourning, and the city resounds with weeping because of the numbers that have died and are dying every day. As Scripture says of the firstborn of the Egyptians, so now there has been a great cry: there is not a house in which there is not one dead — how I wish it had been only one!
Many terrible things had happened to use even before this. First we were set on and surrounded by persecutors and murderers, yet we were the only ones to keep festival even then. Every spot where we were attacked became for us a place for celebrations, whether field, desert, ship, inn, or prison. The most brilliant festival of all was kept by the fulfilled martyrs, who were feasted in heaven. After that came war and famine, which struck at Christian and heathen alike. We alone had to bear the injuries they did us, but we profited by what they did to each other and suffered at each other’s hands; so yet again we found joy in the peace which Christ has given to us alone. But when both we and they had been allowed a tiny breathing-space, out of the blue came this disease, a thing more terrifying to them than any terror, more frightful than any disaster whatever, and as a historian of their own [Thucydides] once wrote: ‘the only thing of all that surpassed expectation’. To us it was not that, but a schooling and testing as valuable as all our earlier trials; for it did not pass over us, though its full impact fell on the heathen… [ellipses in original]
Most of our brother-Christians showed unbounded love and loyalty, never sparing themselves and thinking only of one another. Heedless of the danger, they took charge of the sick, attending to their every need and ministering to them in Christ, and with them departed this life serenely happy; for they were infected by others with the disease, drawing on themselves the sickness of their neighbors and cheerfully accepting their pains. Many, in nursing and curing others, transferred their death to themselves and died in their stead, turning the common formula that is normally an empty courtesy into a reality: ‘Your humble servant bids you good-bye.’ The best of our brothers lost their lives in this manner, a number of presbyters, deacons, and laymen winning high commendation, so that death in this form, the result of great piety and strong faith, seems in every way the equal of martyrdom. With willing hands they raised the bodies of the saints to their bosoms; they closed their eyes and mouths, carried them on their shoulders, and laid them out; they clung to them, embraced them, washed them, and wrapped them in grave-clothes. Very soon the same services were done for them, since those left behind were constantly following those gone before.
The heathen behaved in the very opposite way. At the first onset of the disease, they pushed the sufferers away and fled from their dearest, throwing them into the roads before they were dead and treating unburied corpses as dirt, hoping thereby to avert the spread and contagion of the fatal disease; but do what they might, they found it difficult to escape.
The first week of Great Lent finally arrived, after a time of Holy Nativity and Theophany celebrations with the blessing of houses, combined with the preparatory weeks before Lent.
On Sunday, March 1st, at 3PM, the large bell toned very solemnly as the brethren, seminarians, and pilgrims greeted His Grace, Vladyka Luke, who was then vested solemnly before the beginning of 9th Hours, followed by Great Vespers, served together with the monastery clergy.
On Sunday, March 8, the first Sunday of Great Lent, the Holy Church commemorates the triumph of Orthodoxy when the veneration of the holy icons was confirmed by the 7th Ecumenical Council. In Russia, it has been traditional in cathedrals to include with the service the so-called Anathema service. This service consists of reiterating the traditional dogmas of the Orthodox faith concerning the Orthodox belief in the Holy Trinity and the dual nature of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
The feast of the Three Hierarchs traditionally is the feast day of Orthodox theological seminaries, and so it is for our Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. For this feast day, our seminary is often visited by other hierarchs of our Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, as it was this year, which made the feast even more solemn.
The feast of Theophany or Baptism of the Lord comes at the end of the so-called “Sviatsi,” or “Holy Days.” Following the typicon the Royal Hours were served on Friday morning with no liturgy, since the feast fell on Sunday. Saturday morning, on the Eve of Theophany, His Grace Bishop Luke served the divine liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, which was followed immediately by Great Vespers for the feast of Theophany. This itself was immediately followed by a Great Blessing of Water in the monastery bell tower chapel. As is the monastery custom, one meal, strictly Lenten, was served after all the monastery and seminary quarters had been blessed with holy water.
Glory to God, the feast of the Holy Nativity of Our Lord and Saviour was celebrated with the usual solemnity and joy. For this we must be thankful to God and the efforts of the brethren and seminarians, who with diligence carried out all the usual preparations for the feast, by singing and reading in kleros, the preparation of the meals, the thorough cleaning of all the monastery and seminary buildings, and the reception and care of our many pilgrims.
The Role of Culture in Forming an Orthodox Life - 12/26/19
Your Eminence, Fathers, conferencees!
It’s wise to search the Scriptures and especially the Gospel for guidance before beginning any new task. What does the Gospel say that gives direction for the topic of culture and Orthodox living?
Since today was a feast of the Mother of God, in the midst of the Nativity Fast, when the vestments are read, the church was filled with blue vestments In honor of the Most Holy Virgin.
St. Nicholas is perhaps the most beloved of all saints by Russians. Every pious home has at least icons of the Savior, the Mother of God, and also of St. Nicholas. In the monastery we had the usual All-Night Vigil, and His Grace Bishop Luke presided at the Divine Liturgy on the day itself.
The church was filled with the faithful. At the end of the service, the monastery cathedral Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow was presented with a Synodal Grammota by Bishop Luke in recognition of his 45 years anniversary of being ordained a deacon on this feast. The choir sang Many Years for him and all of her many Name’s Day people.
Fr. Victor besides being a long-time deacon has also taught Russian Literature in the seminary for many years. He is one of the original “summer boys,” and was the secretary and helper of Metropolitan Laurus for all of his episcopate, that is, for over 40 years. Many years, dear Fr. Victor.
FEAST OF THE ARCHANGEL MICHAEL AND ALL THE BODILESS HOSTS - 11/21/19
Despite it being a work day, many of our neighbors attended the Divine Liturgy on this blessed feast, officiated by Bishop Luke and concelebrated by the monastery clergy. As we like to say, it is the feast of all of our guardian angels.
This feast is also the anniversary of the repose of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Philaret, the third First-Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, a prolific sermonizer and known throughout the Orthodox world for his stance against ecumenism.
On October 18/31 the Holy Church commemorates the memory of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke. This is the Name’s Day of our abbot, His Grace, Bishop Luke, who is also the rector of our Holy Trinity Seminary. This year, Vladyka celebrated his first Name’s Day as a bishop. With great joy, the brotherhood, seminary teachers and students and many neighbors and pilgrims came together to celebrate this feast day together with our dear bishop.
Anniversary of repose of Br. Jose Munoz - 10/30/19
As has been their custom since the horrific death of Brother Jose Munoz in, the guardian of the Montreal Iveron Myrrh-Streaming Icon in 1997, the cathedral parish of St. John the Baptist of Washington, D.C. has organized an annual pilgrimage to the Holy Trinity Monastery, in whose cemetery repose the earthly remains of Brother Jose. Led by Archpriest Victor Potapov and other clergy, a busload of pilgrims arrived on Saturday afternoon, October 26th, whereupon a pannikhida was served at Brother Jose’s gravesite. Many other pilgrims, neighbors as well as monastery brethren and seminarians joined in remembering Brother Jose.
CLERGY CONFERENCE OF THE EASTERN AMERICAN AND NEW YORK DIOCESE – Fall 2019 - 10/26/19
From time to time the Eastern American and New York Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia has held its conferences within the walls of the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York. So it was on October 22-23, on our hallowed grounds, approximately 100 priests and deacons gathered with Metropolitan Hilarion, our First Hierarch and his two vicar bishops, Bishop Nicholas and Bishop Luke, along with Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada and his clergy, and clergy of the Moscow Patriarchate.
FEAST OF THE EXALTATION OF THE LIFE-GIVING CROSS - 10/08/19
The feast of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross is very solemnly celebrated in the monastery, which is blessed to have a small piece of the True Cross. This is contained in a decorated pectoral cross which once belonged to Archbishop Averky, a well-known writer and confessor of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad and a previous abbot of our monastery and rector of the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary, located in the monastery.
St. Tikhon's Monastery in Waymart, PA will host a Bellringing Education Weekend on October 4–6, 2019 - 10/01/19
St. Tikhon's Monastery in Waymart, PA will host a Bellringing Education Weekend on October 4–6, 2019. Organized by New Creation Bellringing, the event consists of two lectures, a demonstration at the monastery belfry, and hands-on ringing lessons for students that have registered in advance.
On Friday, October 4, 7–9 pm, there will be a lecture, "The 5 Essential Elements of a Successful Bellringing Ministry." Intended for clergy, seminarians, and bellringers, it will equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to build a culture of serious church bellringing in their communities. On Saturday, October 5, at 10:00 am, there will be a lecture open to the general public, "The Liturgical Art of Bellringing in the Orthodox Church," which will provide an overview of the history, sounds, and methodology of Christian bellringing, focusing on the bellringing traditions of Orthodox Church. It will be followed by a demonstration at the Millennium Belfry. At Vigil and Liturgy in the monastery church, student bellringers who have studied during the week will ring the tolls and peals.
For more information, visit the event page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/events/424297171549692.
To learn more about Constantine Stade and New Creation Bellringing, please visit www.newcreationbellringing.com.
We are glad to announce that we have completed the renovation of our incense workshop. We are now currently making incense and in the very near future we will be adding our initial line of aromas of Jordanville Incense to our Church Supplies Site.
The renovation work was extensive and expensive and we please ask for your continued support and prayers that we may work and be succesful in producing high quality incense. We hope to be able to produce an organic line of incence in the near future with no chemical additives.
If you would like to help us grow our incense making endeavor you may do so in the following ways:
1) We are currently looking for an engineering machinist who would be able to create a custom made machine to cut incense.
2) We would welcome anyone with experience in using organic oil bases and combining them with essential oil aromas.
3) We would be grateful for any material support to help us purchase raw materials of frankincense and high quality aromas. This in turn will help the monastics continue working to support the needs of the Monastery.
4) Finally if you have any suggestions and recommendations on how we can improve our current products please feel free to write to us at incense.jordanville@gmail.com
With God's help the path to the St. Seraphim chapel was completed. For many years water was collecting on the surface of the old path and entering the chapel. The area under the new path was water proofed, cement poured on top at a slight angle so as to have water escaping safely from the area of the chapel.
Our cemetery has over 3000 graves and both the Monastery and Seminary grounds need a good Lawnmower. The lawnmower is needed to be better able to maintain the grounds for our dearly departed, as well as for the monastic and seminary grounds. This fundraiser will go towards the purchase of a Hustler Riding Lawnmower.
Update: August 14, 2019 by Archim. Nektarios Harding On behalf of Bishop Luke of Syracuse, I want to thank all our donors! We have exceeded our goal of 4500.00!! God bless each and every one of you who donated to this campaign!
Labor Day weekend in the United States, besides being a time to commemorate all those who work hard in the industry of our country, is traditionally considered the last weekend of the summer season, a time when often people have their last vacation time and have barbeques and other festivities.
August 18/31, 2019, the day of the commemoration of the Holy Martyrs Florus and Laurus, is the Saint’s Day of our ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Flor. For this reason, a pannikhida was served after lunch by His Grace, Bishop Luke, abbot of our monastery, joined by the monastery clergy, neighbors and pilgrims, who were already arriving for the Labor Day weekend festivities.
Also commemorated were Hierodeacon Andrei, a reposed member of our brotherhood and also Subdeacon Basil Anderson, a former seminarian, who tragically died in a home accident many years ago, and also the newly reposed Ludmilla Popow, mother-in-law of our Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow.
Saturday, 18 / 31 August Martyrs Florus & Laurus 5:00 Midnight Office 6:00 Divine Liturgy 3:00 Procession to Greet the Pochaev Icon, Akafist to St Job, Communion Rule 7:00 Vigil
Sunday, 19 August / 1 September 11th Sunday after Pentecost 6:00 Early Liturgy in the Church of St Job of Pochaev 9:00 Hierarchal Divine Liturgy with Procession Around the Cathedral, Moleben to the Pochaev Icon and St Job of Pochaev 6:00 Vespers 7:00 Supper 7:15 Small Compline
Service Schedule for the Dormition of the Theotokos - 08/12/19
As always, the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos will be served with particular solemnity at Holy Trinity Monastery, including the celebration of the altar feast of the cemetery Church of the Dormition located in the "new cemetery." This year His Grace, Bishop Luke, and the monastery clergy will also serve the Lamentations of the Dormition of the Theotokos (sometimes known as the Burial Service of the Mother of God) in the monastery's cathedral as part of the festal observances.
On Monday evening, the eve of the feast of the Tikhvin Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, July 8 (N.S.), Bishop Luke, our abbot, performed two more tonsures. Traditionally, in our monastery, tonsures are done during Great Lent. However, any Lenten period is appropriate for tonsures.
This year, the monastery’s celebration of its altar feast day of the Holy Spirit was especially solemn, in large part due to the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the ordination of Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk to the deaconate. His family organized a reception in his honor after the feast day luncheon. This drew even more than the usual number of pilgrims, especially from Albany and Boston, where Father has many relatives.
As is usual, the monastery celebrated Pentecost with great solemnity. In past years, since the repose of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus, we had to request the presence of a visiting bishop to head up our services, but this year, for the first time, our very own Bishop Luke presided at the services on Pentecost.
Announcing the Holy Trinity Monastery 90th Anniversary Fundraiser - 05/23/19
Dear Supporters & Friends,
Christ is in our Midst!
Since its humble beginnings 90 years ago, Holy Trinity Monastery is the largest monastery of ROCOR, and an important spiritual centre for those seeking fulfillment in the religious life. Throughout those years, it is people like you who share the vision of our forefathers of Blessed memory, that have supported and maintained the Monastery.
Announcing the Holy Trinity Monastery 90th Anniversary Fundraiser - 05/23/19
Dear Supporters & Friends,
Christ is in our Midst!
Since its humble beginnings 90 years ago, Holy Trinity Monastery is the largest monastery of ROCOR, and an important spiritual centre for those seeking fulfillment in the religious life. Throughout those years, it is people like you who share the vision of our forefathers of Blessed memory, that have supported and maintained the Monastery.
Repose and Funeral of Lev Ivanovich Pavlinetz - 05/22/19
On May 21 (New Calendar), on the feast of the Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, in the 103rd year of his life, the eldest inhabitant of the Holy Trinity Monastery, Lev Ivanovich Pawlinets, reposed quietly in hospital after a brief illness.
Lev Ivanovich Pavlinetz Reposed in the Lord - 05/21/19
Lev Ivanovich Pavlinetz reposed in the Lord On Tuesday morning, May 21, 2019. A hierarchical liturgy will take place on Wednesday, May 22, followed by the blessing of the water. Following this service, lunch will be held in trapeza and the funeral for Lev Pavlinetz will follow.
Upcoming Lecture titled “Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) In Memoriam: An Icon of Russian Culture in the Emigration” on May 15th, 2019 - 05/13/19
On Wednesday, May 15, at 5:30 pm in the Seminary hall, Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary is pleased to present a lecture, delivered in English, titled “Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) In Memoriam: An Icon of Russian Culture in the Emigration”.
This lecture is mandatory for all students. Faculty, staff, and the Brotherhood are cordially invited to attend, and the lecture is open to the public.
Bright Friday Hierarchal Divine Liturgy in Memory of Archbishop Alypy - 05/01/19
This Bright Friday, May 3rd, a Hierarchal Divine Liturgy will be held at 9am in memory of Archbishop Alypy. His burial will take place at 1pm after lunch is held in the trapeza. All are invited to attend.
On Pascha day, at 3PM, the joyful Paschal service of Vespers was served. This is already vespers for Bright Monday. A distinguishing feature of this service is the reading of the Gospel by the bishop, towards the people, while the priests are gathered below the amvon, with deacons supporting the Gospel.
It has been commented that in a certain cathedral of our Russian Church Abroad Pascha is quite glorious, but in the monastery it shines forth with great warmth, if somewhat more humble. Perhaps this is due to the concentrated prayer and relative ascetic labors of conducting the full typicon of Great Lenten services with the ensuing atmosphere of great spiritual concentration and repentance. Even so, the monastery services on Pascha and Bright Week are very joyous and for Pascha the singing is quite glorious and joyful.
It has been commented that in a certain cathedral of our Russian Church Abroad Pascha is quite glorious, but in the monastery it shines forth with great warmth, if somewhat more humble. Perhaps this is due to the concentrated prayer and relative ascetic labors of conducting the full typicon of Great Lenten services with the ensuing atmosphere of great spiritual concentration and repentance. Even so, the monastery services on Pascha and Bright Week are very joyous and for Pascha the singing is quite glorious and joyful.
On April 28, 2019, the first day of Holy Pascha, His Eminence, Archbishop Alypy, reposed in the Lord. Thus ended the heavy cross born by Vladyka for many years, after a tragic accident, after which he became an invalid.
After six weeks of Great Lent, followed by the celebration of Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday, the monastery entered upon Holy Week. This is perhaps the most solemn period of time in the monastery of the whole year. There are spiritually uplifting services throughout the day as we move forward to the Lord’s Passion.
After six weeks of Great Lent, followed by the celebration of Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday, the monastery entered upon Holy Week. This is perhaps the most solemn period of time in the monastery of the whole year. There are spiritually uplifting services throughout the day as we move forward to the Lord’s Passion.
Monastic Tonsures into the Small Schema - 04/23/19
On April 18, Thursday of the 6th Week of Great Lent, in the evening after Great Compline, our abbot, Bishop Luke of Syracuse, performed the mystery of the tonsure to the Little Schema. This was truly a feast of the monastery as three of our rassaphore monks were tonsured into the angelic state.
It has become traditional for the monastery to celebrate the mystery of Holy Unction on Tuesday of the 6th Week of Great Lent. And so, many people gathered at the monastery for this service, many arriving from neighboring parishes besides the members of our community and our neighbors.
Preservation of Jordanville History Continues - 04/23/19
The first attempt at compiling an annotated database of the departed who are buried in the cemeteries of Holy Trinity Monastery was carried out in 1996 by an enthusiastic amateur historian from Michigan, Andrei Alekseevich Lyubimov. The results of his research were published in the journal Letopis’ Russkogo zarhubezh’ia (no. 2, 1996 and no. 3 for 1997). In 2005, Hieromonk Evtikhii (Dovganiuk) submitted to Holy Trinity Orthodox Theological Seminary his dissertation, A Draft of a Guidebook for the Necropolis of Holy Trinity Monastery (in Russian). The Holy Trinity seminarian, Vladimir Davydov, developed Fr. Evitikhii’s work, presenting his thesis to Holy Trinity Seminary in 2009. In 2012-14, Andrei A. Lyubimov resumed his cataloguing of the cemeteries, having arrived in Jordanville at the invitation of the Foundation of Russian History, headed by the seminary' deaan Archpirest Vladimir von Tsurikov. In 2015, the results of A. Lyubimov’s and Fr. Vladimir von Tsurikovs' collaboration came out of the Moscow press, Staraia Basmannaia, under the title, Dzhordanvil’skii nekropol’. Meanwhile, in 2012, the internet site, Historical Studies of the Russian Church Abroad, began to video-record numerous commentaries made in Russian by Hieromonk Roman (Krassovsky) and Protodeacon Viktor Lochmatow at selected graves of the Jordanville cemeteries. However, the seminary professor and editor of the website, Deacon Andrei Psarev, did not have the resources for posting annotated video materials on the website. The situation changed for the better in October 2018, when the Canadian foundation, Russkaia Dusha (The Russian Soul), allocated a grant for placing video materials on the website, Historical Studies of the Russian Church Abroad. Each video is accompanied by a reference to the book, Dzhordanvil’skii nekropol’ and can be viewed here: http://www.rocorstudies.org/ jordanville/
Softener of Evil Hearts to Visit Monastery Until Pascha - 04/22/19
The Softener of Evil Hearts icon will visit the monastery from Tuesday, April 23rd until Pascha. The greeting of the icon will take place on Tuesday morning at 9:50am.
Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts According to St. James - 04/05/19
For a number of years, during Great Lent, the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of St. James, the Brother of the Lord, has been celebrated. This was instituted by our abbot, Archimandrite Luke, now Bishop Luke. As he has done every year, he celebrated this liturgy for the spiritual edification of the brethren and the faithful and to strengthen our ties with the early Church. This is especially interesting for our seminarians, who never had witnessed this type of liturgy.
As has become a fixed tradition in the monastery, many Serbian pilgrims, mainly from New York, but also from other parts, joined the brotherhood in celebrating the Veneration of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord on the 3rd Sunday of Great Lent. For us it is a great joy to share this mid-Lenten commemoration with our brethren in the faith.
As has become a fixed tradition in the monastery, many Serbian pilgrims, mainly from New York, but also from other parts, joined the brotherhood in celebrating the Veneration of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord on the 3rd Sunday of Great Lent. For us it is a great joy to share this mid-Lenten commemoration with our brethren in the faith.
In Orthodox understanding, Great Lent is called the “spring of the soul.” So once again, our All-Merciful Lord has granted us to arrive at this soul-saving time of the Church year. With the passing of the first week, the monastery-seminary community has whole-heartedly turned its heart over to this special time of repentance and fasting with prayer.
In Orthodox understanding, Great Lent is called the “spring of the soul.” So once again, our All-Merciful Lord has granted us to arrive at this soul-saving time of the Church year. With the passing of the first week, the monastery-seminary community has whole-heartedly turned its heart over to this special time of repentance and fasting with prayer.
This year, the feast of the Meeting of the Lord was special in that it was the first festal, pontifical liturgy served by His Grace, the newly consecrated Bishop Luke, abbot of our monastery. Concelebrating with him were the monastery and seminary clergy.
Consecration of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy - 02/11/19
On February 12, 2019, the seminary feast of the Three Hierarchs, a wondrous and historic event took place in the life of the monastery. Our beloved abbot, Archimandrite Luke was consecrated to the episcopacy. Having been elected our abbot in May of 2008 to succeed the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus, the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, in their December 2018 session, elected Fr. Luke to become Bishop of Syracuse. He will continue to be the abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery as well as rector of the Holy Trinity Seminary.
Consecration of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy - 02/11/19
On February 12, 2019, the seminary feast of the Three Hierarchs, a wondrous and historic event took place in the life of the monastery. Our beloved abbot, Archimandrite Luke was consecrated to the episcopacy. Having been elected our abbot in May of 2008 to succeed the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus, the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, in their December 2018 session, elected Fr. Luke to become Bishop of Syracuse. He will continue to be the abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery as well as rector of the Holy Trinity Seminary.
The Nomination and Consecration of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy (Live Streaming) - 02/07/19
The Nomination to the Episcopacy of Archimandrite Luke will take place at Holy Trinity Monastery on February 11, 2019 at 5PM. The Consecration to the Episcopacy will take place on the following day, February 12, 2019 also at the Monastery.
LIVE STREAMING SCHEDULE (EASTERN TIME ZONE) :
MONDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2019
5:00 PM - Nomination of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy
7:00PM - Vigil
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2019
9:00 AM Hierarchical Liturgy/ Consecration to the Episcopacy of Archimandrite Luke
11th Pilgrimage of the Russian Church Abroad to Holy Places of Russia 2019 - 01/28/19
This year, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, will lead a pilgrimage to the holy sites of Russia. Further information and itinerary are available in PDF format below in Russian and English.
11th Pilgrimage of the Russian Church Abroad to Holy Places of Russia 2019 - 01/28/19
This year, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, will lead a pilgrimage to the holy sites of Russia. Further information and itinerary are available in PDF format below in Russian and English.
The feast of the Theophany of the Lord is in many ways a twin of the feast of the Nativity. Originally it was all one feast, the Theophany, with the emphasis put on the appearance of the Lord to the world for His ministry. Only later did the feast split into two as it were, in order to combat the pagan feast of the winter solstice.
The feast of the Theophany of the Lord is in many ways a twin of the feast of the Nativity. Originally it was all one feast, the Theophany, with the emphasis put on the appearance of the Lord to the world for His ministry. Only later did the feast split into two as it were, in order to combat the pagan feast of the winter solstice.
With great spiritual joy, the brotherhood, seminarians, and all those who share in the life of the Holy Trinity Monastery and Holy Trinity Seminary, have welcomed once again the great feast of the Lord’s Nativity. Having completed the 40-day fast, and having participated in the mystery of Confession, we joyfully greet the Christ Child, praising Him with song and prayer.
With great spiritual joy, the brotherhood, seminarians, and all those who share in the life of the Holy Trinity Monastery and Holy Trinity Seminary, have welcomed once again the great feast of the Lord’s Nativity. Having completed the 40-day fast, and having participated in the mystery of Confession, we joyfully greet the Christ Child, praising Him with song and prayer.
The Nomination and Consecration of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy (February 11/12, 2019 - Schedule of Services) - 12/31/18
The Nomination to the Episcopacy of Archimandrite Luke will take place at Holy Trinity Monastery on February 11, 2019 at 5PM. The Consecration to the Episcopacy will take place on the following day, February 12, 2019 also at the Monastery.
SCHEDULE:
MONDAY
5:00 PM - Nomination of Archimandrite Luke to the Episcopacy
6:00PM - Supper
7:00PM - Vigil
TUESDAY
9:00 AM Hierarchical Liturgy/ Consecration to the Episcopacy of Archimandrite Luke
After Liturgy: Reception for all in Seminary Hall ( Overflow in Monastery Refectory)
6:00PM - Supper
6:30PM - 9th Hours, Vespers and Matins, First Hour
WEDNESDAY
9:00AM Hierarchical Liturgy
After Liturgy: Lunch in Monastery Refectory
4:00PM 9th Hour, Vespers and Matins, 1st Hour. (Return to usual schedule of services)
The Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church confirms the election of Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) as Bishop of Syracuse - 12/28/18
On December 28, 2018, the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church made the following decision regarding the election of Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) as Bishop of Syracuse of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia:
JOURNAL No. 116 HEARD:
The report of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America and New York, President of the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, interceding for the confirmation of the election of Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, and Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary, as Bishop of Syracuse, Vicar of the Eastern American Diocese.
The great feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos Into the Temple was celebrated at the monastery with the usual solemnity that characterizes our divine services. We were graced with what has become almost traditional, the presence of His Grace Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan for the All-Night Vigil. Vladyka is usually invited to serve in our parish in Syracuse, and so he breaks up his journey there from New York by staying in the monastery for the evening.
On the weekend of November 3-4, 2018, the parish of St. John the Baptist in Washington, D.C. organized once again their annual pilgrimage to the monastery to honor the memory of Brother Jose Munoz, the ever-memorabel guardian of the Myrrh-Streaming icon of the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God. As is known, Brother Jose was murdered on October 31, 1997, and the icon was “lost,” its location being unknown until this day. Through God’s mercy, a copy of the icon from Hawaii streams great quantities of myrrh and for the past number of years has been taken around many Orthodox parishes around this country and others, for the spiritual consolation of the faithful. And so, this weekend, also the icon was brought here by Fr. Athanasius Kone, our parish priest in Honolulu.
Upcoming Lecture: Photographs from the Last Days of the Tsar - 10/26/18
Discover the fascinating story of a long-lost album containing remarkable photographs of Russia’s last imperial family. Coming to light during the filming of “Antiques Roadshow” in Wales, the 66 photographs in the Lintern Archive show Tsar Nicholas II and his family before the revolution and their life in exile in the Siberian city of Tobolsk. Many of the images have never been published and are new to scholars.
The Lintern Archive: Photographs from the Last Days of the Tsar - November 1, 2018 - 10/25/18
This lecture is presented in conjunction with the Russian History Museum’s current exhibition, Last Days of the Last Tsar.
Discover the fascinating story of a long-lost album containing remarkable photographs of Russia’s last imperial family. Coming to light during the filming of “Antiques Roadshow” in Wales, the 66 photographs in the Lintern Archive show Tsar Nicholas II and his family before the revolution and their life in exile in the Siberian city of Tobolsk. Many of the images have never been published and are new to scholars.
On September 26th the usual vigil for the great feast of the Exaltation of the Lord was served with its highlight being the service of the Exaltation or Elevation of the Cross. Usually this service is performed by bishops in their cathedrals, but it can also be done by archimandrites.
To My Eminent Brother Archpastors, Honorable Fathers, Dear Brothers and Sisters:
The 20th century was a difficult time for Orthodox Christians on the territory of the Russian Empire, which became the USSR after the Great War, the October Revolution and Civil War. But the more the Church endured persecution, the brighter the lanterns of faith and piety shone in the Russian land. From the Tsar and the members of the Royal Family close to him in spirit, from archpastors and simple monastics, priests, deacons to laypersons came forth a powerful spiritual army of the Church Militant.
Standing before God in prayerful solidarity with our long-suffering brethren of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, headed by His Beatitude Metropolitan Onufry of Kiev and All Ukraine, who, being revered and respected throughout the whole of the Orthodox world, is primate of the only recognised canonical Orthodox Church of Christ in Ukraine, we, the members of the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, which carries out its ministry in the lands of North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other nations of the West, ministering to numerous emigres from the lands of historic Russia and their descendants, express our profound indignation at the blatant violation of the Holy Canons by the Orthodox Church of Constantinople.
On September 17, 2018, we published the news piece, “Greek Metropolitan Calls on Constantinople to Repent and Cease Communication with Ukrainian Schismatics,” presenting thoughts from Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira and Antikythera on the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s ongoing dealings with Ukrainian schismatics, with the intention of granting a tomos of autocephaly and thereby creating a new Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The Ecumenical Patriarchate announced on September 7 that he was sending two exarch bishops to Kiev to oversee and facilitate this process—an uncanonical action, as no blessing was sought from nor given by His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry of Kiev and All Ukraine, the primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. In response, the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church announced on September 14 that it was ceasing liturgical commemoration of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and episcopal concelebrations, and that the Russian Orthodox Church was withdrawing from any organizations or committees chaired or co-chaired by representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The Synod was also clear that this is not a break in Eucharistic communion.
From back in the 1950’s, it has been the tradition of Holy Trinity Monastery to use the American civil holiday weekend of “Labor Day Weekend” as a convenient means for the monastery’s pilgrims to come to the monastery and commemorate the memory of the Venerable St. Job, abbot and wonderworker of Pochaev and also the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Pochaev.
From back in the 1950’s, it has been the tradition of Holy Trinity Monastery to use the American civil holiday weekend of “Labor Day Weekend” as a convenient means for the monastery’s pilgrims to come to the monastery and commemorate the memory of the Venerable St. Job, abbot and wonderworker of Pochaev and also the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Pochaev.
The great feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos was celebrated in the usual very solemn way in the monastery this year. Especially noteworthy was that this was the first time the new Shroud of the Dormition, given to the monastery by his Grace, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, was used for the feast. This greatly intensified the compunction felt by the monastery brotherhood and its numerous pilgrims, who found their way to the monastery for the feast. Many were moved to tears as they contemplated the beautiful depiction of the falling asleep of the Blessed Virgin.
The great feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos was celebrated in the usual very solemn way in the monastery this year. Especially noteworthy was that this was the first time the new Shroud of the Dormition, given to the monastery by his Grace, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, was used for the feast. This greatly intensified the compunction felt by the monastery brotherhood and its numerous pilgrims, who found their way to the monastery for the feast. Many were moved to tears as they contemplated the beautiful depiction of the falling asleep of the Blessed Virgin.
This weekend the monastery was blessed with the visit of our spiritual benefactor, His Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada. Vladyka is a firm supporter of his Alma Mater and whenever he is able, makes the five-hour trip to the monastery. This time was for the purpose of ordaining his hierodeacon, Fr. Sergiy Gusakov, to be a hieromonk.
'Last Days of the Last Tsar' Exhibit Opens in Jordanville's Museum for 100th Anniversary - 07/17/18
On July 17th, 2018, an exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the death of Tsar Nicholas II and his family opened at the Russian History Museum on the grounds of Holy Trinity Monastery.
Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Martyrs - 07/17/18
On July 4/17, 2018, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the 100th anniversary of the martyrdom of Tsar Nicholas II and his august family and their loyal servants and attendants who were executed in Ekaterinburg early in the morning on this day in 1918.
'Last Days of the Last Tsar' Exhibit Opens in Jordanville's Museum for 100th Anniversary - 07/17/18
On July 17th, 2018, an exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the death of Tsar Nicholas II and his family opened at the Russian History Museum on the grounds of Holy Trinity Monastery.
The three-week Summer Youth Program completed its most successful year at Holy Trinity Monastery on July 15. Twenty high school students from 15 to 18 years of age, the largest group in the camp's history, gathered from across the United States and Canada to experience a unique schedule of daily liturgies, lectures, work alongside the monastics, nightly reflections, and recreational activities in beautiful, rural upstate New York.
Appeal for Funds to Renovate Electrical System in Jordanville's Cathedral - 06/27/18
The cathedral of the Holy Trinity Monastery is widely known and loved as the focal point of the prayer life of the monastery. Its unique frescoes, painted by the every-memorable Archimandrite Cyprian, are treasured throughout the Orthodox world, and its many holy icons and relics are greatly venerated by the countless number of pilgrims who stream to the monastery throughout the year for spiritual renewal. The church is also used by the monks and the seminarians for the rich spiritual life of the monastery.
Renovation to Electrical System in Jordanville's Main Church - 06/27/18
The cathedral of the Holy Trinity Monastery is widely known and loved as the focal point of the prayer life of the monastery. Its unique frescoes, painted by the every-memorable Archimandrite Cyprian, are treasured throughout the Orthodox world, and its many holy icons and relics are greatly venerated by the countless number of pilgrims who stream to the monastery throughout the year for spiritual renewal. The church is also used by the monks and the seminarians for the rich spiritual life of the monastery.
Since the monastery is dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity, our patronal feast day is Pentecost, or more correctly, the day of the Holy Spirit. Since Pascha was very early this year, the feast coincided with the civil holiday of Memorial Day, thus facilitating the pilgrimage of hundreds of the faithful.
Since the monastery is dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity, our patronal feast day is Pentecost, or more correctly, the day of the Holy Spirit. Since Pascha was very early this year, the feast coincided with the civil holiday of Memorial Day, thus facilitating the pilgrimage of hundreds of the faithful.
Through the generous voluntary efforts of members of the greater Jordanville community, Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary has been blessed with bountiful springtime beauty.
Sunday of the Samaritan Woman and Feast of St. George - 05/06/18
The feast of the Great-Martyr and Trophy-bearer George is celebrated in the monastery as a full feast day. This year, it fell on the Sunday of the Samaritan Woman. As if this were not enough to make it especially solemn this year, adding to the joy of the feast was the visit of Bishop Nikolaj from Las Vegas, so we were able to have a pontifical service and also to celebrate the Slava of His Grace as well as two of our seminarians, the brothers Milosh and Negosh.
On May 2, the Orthodox Church commemorated the feast of Mid-Pentecost, the half-way point between Pascha and Pentecost. This was a feast in the Old Testament Church.
This year in the monastery Holy Week and Pascha were celebrated with the usual solemnity, beautiful chants and with great efforts in the preparation thereof, both practical and spiritual. Joined to this was the snowy, wintry weather, experienced as hardly ever felt before. Early on Holy Saturday morning, towards the end of the Matins service, or as it is popularly called, “The Burial Service,” one of our father had to actually plow the snow around the church in order for the procession to take place. A bit of snow fell on almost every day, including Pascha itself.
This year in the monastery Holy Week and Pascha were celebrated with the usual solemnity, beautiful chants and with great efforts in the preparation thereof, both practical and spiritual. Joined to this was the snowy, wintry weather, experienced as hardly every felt before. Early on Holy Saturday morning, towards the end of the Matins service, or as it is popularly called, “The Burial Service,” one of our father had to actually plow the snow around the church in order for the procession to take place. A bit of snow fell on almost every day, including Pascha itself.
April 2, 2018 - Softener of Evil Hearts to Visit Jordanville - 04/02/18
The myrrh-streaming icon of the Mother of God, Softener of Evil Hearts will be visiting the monastery from Holy and Great Monday (April 2/March 19) until Pascha (April 8/March 26).
The Sunday before Pascha, known as Palm Sunday, is always celebrated with great joy in Holy Trinity Monastery. The day before, Lazarus Saturday, is very joyous with a General Matins service served, and at the noon-day meal, traditionally an inexpensive form of caviar is served on bread, according to the typicon, the caviar, or fish eggs, symbolizing a foreshadowing of the Lord’s Resurrection, as in the event, the resurrection of St. Lazarus did.
The Sunday before Pascha, known as Palm Sunday, is always celebrated with great joy in Holy Trinity Monastery. The day before, Lazarus Saturday, is very joyous with a General Matins service served, and at the noon-day meal, traditionally an inexpensive form of caviar is served on bread, according to the typicon, the caviar, or fish eggs, symbolizing a foreshadowing of the Lord’s Resurrection, as in the event, the resurrection of St. Lazarus did.
General Unction Service Held at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/27/18
Every since 1988 the monastery has conducted annual General Unction services for its members and also for the faithful and pilgrims. Before it was felt that this service would interfere with the many-houred and solemn services of Great Lent and especially those of Holy Week. However, due to the number of seriously ill fathers at the time, the service was held and has been ever since.
Archpastoral Visit of Archbishop Gabriel to Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/23/18
On March 23, 2018 , His Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada arrived in the monastery for a few days of spiritual rest and also to celebrate the Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt, March 25, 2018, and in this way, to be able to partake of the special, Lenten atmosphere of the monastery during Great Lent and also to pray with the brotherhood, which is very close in heart to His Eminence, himself being one of our brethren.
Archpastoral Visit of Abp. Gabriel to Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/23/18
On March 23, 2018 , His Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada arrived in the monastery for a few days of spiritual rest and also to celebrate the Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt, March 25, 2018, and in this way, to be able to partake of the special, Lenten atmosphere of the monastery during Great Lent and also to pray with the brotherhood, which is very close in heart to His Eminence, himself being one of our brethren.
10th Anniversary of Repose of Metr. Laurus - 03/16/18
On March 16, 2018, the Holy Trinity Monastery piously noted the memory of the 10th anniversary of the holy repose of Metropolitan Laurus, our former abbot for 32 years.
In the evening, this same day as the 10th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Laurus, Fr. Archimandrite Luke, the Superior of the monastery, tonsured Novice Emilian to be a rassophore monk. This was done at the end of the Small Compline service.
We congratulate Fr. Emilian, and wish him God’s mercy and strength to fulfill his desire for monasticism.
The Anniversary of Metr. Laurus' Repose - 03/16/18
On March 16, 2018, the Holy Trinity Monastery piously noted the memory of the 10th anniversary of the holy repose of Metropolitan Laurus, our former abbot for 32 years.
This year, since Pascha is relatively early, the 8th of April, there was a very short period of time between the festal period of Holy Nativity and Holy Theophany and the beginning of Great Lent. She just finished singing the festal hymns of the feast days, and then we commenced to sing the preparatory hymns of the time of repentance.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary Patronal Feast Day - 02/12/18
With God's grace, the help of our generous benefactors, and the diligence of our faculty and staff, Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary was once again blessed to celebrate our patronal feast day of the Three Hierarchs: St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory the Theologian, and St. John Chrysostom. On February 11 and 12, His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, the monastic community, the seminarians, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to praise God the Holy Trinity, honor those great saints of the fourth century, and extol the virtues of the Seminary.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary Patronal Feast Day - 02/12/18
With God's grace, the help of our generous benefactors, and the diligence of our faculty and staff, Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary was once again blessed to celebrate our patronal feast day of the Three Hierarchs: St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory the Theologian, and St. John Chrysostom. On February 11 and 12, His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, the monastic community, the seminarians, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to praise God the Holy Trinity, honor those great saints of the fourth century, and extol the virtues of the Seminary.
Jordanville's Pochaev Icon Visits the Parish of the New Martyrs and Confessors in Brooklyn, NY - 02/04/18
Deacon Michael Pavuk, HTOS Director of Development, brought the Jordanville Pochaev Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, with the blessing of Archimandrite Luke and at the invitation of Archpriest Serge Lukianov, Rector, to the parish of the New Martyrs & Confessors of Russia on 18th Avenue in Brooklyn, New York, for their patronal feast, which occurred this year on the Sunday of the Prodigal Son.
Feast of the Theophany of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ 2018 - 01/25/18
As in all other years, the Feast of the Theophany was celebrated in the monastery with special solemnity. Liturgically it is a continuum of the feast of the Nativity and as is known, mimics the Nativity liturgically, as originally it was one feast, the Theophany, or the Appearance of Our Lord to the world.
The January Issue of Pravoslavnaia Rus' is Now Available for Download - 01/24/18
The Nativity issue of Holy Trinity Monastery's Russian-language journal Pravoslavnaia Rus' for 2018 may be downloaded as a PDF directly from the publisher's website.
Feast of the Theophany of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ - 01/19/18
As in all other years, the Feast of the Theophany was celebrated in the monastery with special solemnity. Liturgically it is a continuum of the feast of the Nativity and as is known, mimics the Nativity liturgically, as originally it was one feast, the Theophany, or the Appearance of Our Lord to the world.
Celebration of the Holy Nativity at Holy Trinity Monastery - 01/07/18
The last few days in the Holy Trinity Monastery have been one of preparation and the celebration of our Lord’s Holy Nativity. One the seminarians finished with their exams for the fall semester, they began to help the monastery brethren in the thorough cleaning of all of the monastery and seminary buildings, especially the church. This coincided with the Forefeast of the Nativity, which was the liturgical preparation.
Celebration of the Holy Nativity at Holy Trinity Monastery - 01/07/18
The last few days in the Holy Trinity Monastery have been one of preparation and the celebration of our Lord’s Holy Nativity. One the seminarians finished with their exams for the fall semester, they began to help the monastery brethren in the thorough cleaning of all of the monastery and seminary buildings, especially the church. This coincided with the Forefeast of the Nativity, which was the liturgical preparation.
Holy Trinity Publications: The Year in Review - 01/03/18
Jordanville, NY - By God’s grace, 2017 was another fruitful year for Holy Trinity Publications, the missionary-publishing arm of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. With the blessing of H.E. Metropolitan Hilarion and under the direction of Archimandrite Luke, the monastery’s abbot, three new titles were released this year.
Funeral and Burial of Schema-Archdeacon Amvrossy (Taratuchin) - 12/01/17
On December 1, 2017, the monastic funeral of the newly-reposed Schema-Archdeacon Amvrossy was served at Holy Trinity Monastery. Fr. Amvrossy reposed on November 26 in San Francisco where he had served for 34 years in the Cathedral of Our Lady Joy of All Who Sorrow.
Funeral and Burial of Schema-Archdeacon Amvrossy (Taratuchin) - 12/01/17
On December 1, 2017, the monastic funeral of the newly-reposed Schema-Archdeacon Amvrossy was served at Holy Trinity Monastery. Fr. Amvrossy reposed on November 26 in San Francisco where he had served for 34 years in the Cathedral of Our Lady Joy of All Who Sorrow.
Appeal for Funds to Renovate Cross and Golgotha Site - 11/28/17
Prior to their graduation, Holy Trinity Seminary’s graduation class of 1971 erected a magnificent 40 foot tall cross on the top of the hill overlooking Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. Since then, this cross has become a part of the local scenery, something that is very strongly associated with the imagery of the monastery. Although the cross has been already renovated once, time and severe weather conditions have taken their toll on it. This past summer, pilgrims from the Moscow-based Institute of Russian Athos made an initial donation that has been used to paint the cross. This is an impressive beginning, but the monastery still needs $4,000 more to renovate the entire plot. You can also be part of this noble cause, donating via PayPal below here. Please mark your donation for the Golgotha site renovation.
Blessing of 'Quick to Hear' Women's Monastic Community - 11/28/17
Two years ago Metropolitan Hilarion blessed the founding of a woman’s monastic community, in the Russian tradition, using English as its liturgical language and under the spiritual administration of Holy Trinity Monastery. Finally, at the end of this summer, property with buildings were found near West Winfield, NY. This fall the property was blessed and recently on the patronal feast of the community, “Quick to Hear” Icon of the Mother of God, Vigil and Liturgy were served. We ask for the prayers of the faithful for this newly formed community. Their address is 235 Cole Hill Rd, RichfieldSprings, NY 13439.
The Funeral of Mitred Archpriest Wsewolod Drobot - 11/11/17
On Saturday, November 11 2017 the funeral and burial of Fr. Wsewolod took place at his beloved Holy Trinity Monastery. Fr. Wsewolod was the rector of the Holy Nativity of the Mother of God parish in Albany for 50 years, but he also labored within the Holy Trinity Monastery, even earlier, partaking in many aspects of the life of the monastery. So it was only fitting that the monastery served as the place of his funeral.
Mitered Archpriest Wsewolod Drobot Reposes in the Lord - 11/08/17
On Wednesday, November 08, 2017, at 5:30 EST, Mitered Archpriest Wsewolod Drobot (HTOS 1965) reposed in the Lord. Fr. Wsewolod was the retired rector of the Nativity of the Mother of God parish in Albany, NY, and presided as the new church building was completed. Fr. Wsewolod was born on April 1, 1930 in Zaporozhiye, Ukraine. He was a clergyman for 57 years from the time of his ordination to the diaconate. He was a graduate of Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary and lived in a house near the monastery with his family. Fr. Wsewolod is survived by their seven children and seven grandchildren, his matushka Nadezhda having reposed in 2015. May God grant Fr. Wsewolod the Heavenly Kingdom!
Today, when the Holy Church commemorates the memory of the Holy Apostle James, Brother of the Lord in the flesh, as has been customary in the monastery, the Liturgy of the Apostle James was concelebrated by the monastery clergy.
Today, when the Holy Church commemorates the memory of the Holy Apostle James, Brother of the Lord in the flesh, as has been customary in the monastery, the Liturgy of the Apostle James was concelebrated by the monastery clergy. This ancient liturgy, which was the basis of the liturgies of St. John Chrysostom and St. Basil the Great, impresses one with its great prayerfulness and a connection with the Old Testament.
November 25, 2017 - Pannikhida for the Heroes of the White Movement - 11/02/17
On November 25, 2017 at 1:00pm, a pannikhida will be served by Hieromonk Gabriel in the cemetery church in memory of all of the heroes of the White Movement and all those who lost their lives under the Bolshevik yoke. This is sponsored by the Union of the Descendants of the Heroes of Gallipoli with special significance, this being the hundredth anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution.
Name’s Day of Archimandrite Luke, Abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery - 10/31/17
On October 31, the superior of the Holy Trinity Monastery, Archimandrite Luke, celebrated his Name’s Day in the usual way. He celebrated Divine Liturgy at the usual time in the morning, at 6AM. The noon-day meal was festive, at the end of which, Igumen Theophylact congratulated Fr. Luke in the name of the brotherhood, the professors and teachers of the seminary and our many pilgrims. After the monastic “mnogaya letiye,” all were invited to coffee and dessert in the former typographia, which gave a wonderful opportunity for monastics, seminarians, with the professors to engage in brotherly conversation.
20th Anniversary of the Death of Brother Jose - 10/30/17
This past weekend, October 28-29, was held the annual pilgrimage from Washington, D.C. along with pilgrims from Brooklyn, Lakewood, N.J. and many other parts of our country, to commemorate the tragic murder of the guardian of the Iveron Myrrh-streaming icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
20th Anniversary of the Death of Brother Jose - 10/28/17
This past weekend, October 28-29, was held the annual pilgrimage from Washington, D.C. along with pilgrims from Brooklyn, Lakewood, N.J. and many other parts of our country, to commemorate the tragic murder of the guardian of the Iveron Myrrh-streaming icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. This year had special resonance, it being the 20th anniversary of this sorrowful event.
October 23, 2017 - Deaconesses Past, Present, and Future - A Public Lecture by Pdn. Patrick Mitchell - 10/23/17
Some Orthodox Christians today are trying to re-institute the ancient Church order of “deaconesses,” despite the uneven history of that female office in the Church, as well as that of the male diaconate. Protodeacon Patrick Mitchell surveys the Church’s early experience of both male and female “deacons” and concludes that they were never the same order, that the female order was inherently problematic for the Church because it appeared to elevate women over men, and that the “ordination” of women as deaconesses made less and less sense as the Church’s understanding of holy orders evolved. That explains why much of the Orthodox Church never had deaconesses, and why even those segments of the Church in antiquity and in the Byzantine era where they did serve eventually abandoned the order.
Eastern American Diocese Clergy Conference - Fall 2017 - 10/23/17
The fall 2017 Eastern American Diocesan clergy conference was held in the Holy Trinity Monastery from October 23-26. The Hawaiian Myrrh-streaming icon of the Most Holy Theotokos was present from October 26 through the weekend, when the annual pilgrimage from Washington, D.C. took place.
October 25th-30th - Hawaiian Iveron Icon Visits Jordanville - 10/16/17
The Myrrh-Streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon will be visiting Holy Trinity Monastery from the night of October 25th until October 30th, 2017. The icon's arrival accompanies the clergy conference of the Eastern-American diocese. The greeting of the icon will take place at 5:00pm on the Wednesday night of the 25th, just prior to the hierarchical All-Night Vigil at 7:00pm. The icon will also be in the main chapel for Thursday morning's hierarchical Divine Liturgy at 9:00am as well as Friday morning's 6:00am Divine Liturgy. At 9:00am that morning, the icon will be brought to St. Elizabeth Skete down the road from the monastery for a moleben with akathist service. On Saturday the 28th, there will be a pannikhida for Br. Jose at the cemetery at 3:30pm, and then a hierarchical All-Night Vigil in the main chapel at 7:00pm. The next morning, the hierarchical Liturgy will begin at 9:00am. A final pannikhida will be held for Br. Jose that afternoon at 3:00pm, and the icon will stay at the monastery for one last liturgy the next morning at 6:00am before its scheduled departure at 11:00am of the 30th of October, 2017.
The Feast of the Elevation of the Cross - 09/26/17
Some of the twelve great feasts of the Church come in two’s. Such was the case of the Transfiguration of Our Lord and the Dormition of the Theotokos, and so now also is the case of the Nativity of the Theotokos and the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross. At Holy Trinity Monastery the latter is celebrated with extra solemnity in that with the blessing of the Metropolitan, Archimandrite Luke is granted the right to perform the rite of the Elevation of the Cross, much to the spiritual joy of the monastics, the seminarians and the many faithful who attend this service, conducted toward the end of the All-Night Vigil.
The Feast of the Elevation of the Cross - 09/26/17
Some of the twelve great feasts of the Church come in two’s. Such was the case of the Transfiguration of Our Lord and the Dormition of the Theotokos, and so now also is the case of the Nativity of the Theotokos and the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross. At Holy Trinity Monastery the latter is celebrated with extra solemnity in that with the blessing of the Metropolitan, Archimandrite Luke is granted the right to perform the rite of the Elevation of the Cross, much to the spiritual joy of the monastics, the seminarians and the many faithful who attend this service, conducted toward the end of the All-Night Vigil.
On the Writings of Archimandrite George (Kapsanis): A Correction - 09/22/17
On the Writings of Archimandrite George (Kapsanis): A Correction Deacon Peter Markevich September 22, 2017
In 1997, our editor-in-chief Archimandrite Luke published an article in Orthodox Life titled, “New Age Philosophy, Orthodox Thought, and Marriage.” One of the writings that the author criticized was by Archimandrite George (Kapsanis), the late abbot of the Athonite Monastery of St Gregory.
The Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos - 09/21/17
On September 21 (8 O.S.), the first of the twelve great feast days of the Orthodox Church year was celebrated in the Holy Trinity Monastery, the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos, the church new year being September 1/14. The usual All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy were celebrated with the usual monastery solemnity.
The Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos - 09/21/17
On September 21 (8 O.S.), the first of the twelve great feast days of the Orthodox Church year was celebrated in the Holy Trinity Monastery, the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos, the church new year being September 1/14. The usual All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy were celebrated with the usual monastery solemnity.
The Feast of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist - 09/11/17
On September 11 (August 29 O.S.), the holy Church commemorates the Beheading of St. John the Baptist. Even though not numbered among the twelve great feasts of the Orthodox Church, nonetheless it is a very important holiday. As usual, the All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy were celebrated as is usual on such feasts in the monastery.
On September 10, 2017, the brethren of the Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast of the Opening of the Relics of St. Job of Pochaev (August 28 O.S.). As in a previous posting was described the Labor Day Weekend festivities in honor of St. Job, the brethren in a perhaps more intimate way, commemorated their heavenly protector. As is peculiar to this feast, since the basement church of the Holy Trinity Monastery cathedral is dedicated to the memory of St. Job, the services were conducted there.
On September 10, 2017, the brethren of the Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast of the Opening of the Relics of St. Job of Pochaev (August 28 O.S.). As in a previous posting was described the Labor Day Weekend festivities in honor of St. Job, the brethren in a perhaps more intimate way, commemorated their heavenly protector. As is peculiar to this feast, since the basement church of the Holy Trinity Monastery cathedral is dedicated to the memory of St. Job, the services were conducted there.
In the 1950’s, thousands of displaced people, or people displaced by the trauma of World War II, especially from Eastern Europe, found a new life in America. Many of them were Russian Orthodox people, who had suffered deprivation of their age-old culture, especially of their faith, under communism, and now found themselves in a very strange culture. It was not long before so many of them found their spiritual home in the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York.
In the 1950’s, thousands of displaced people, or people displaced by the trauma of World War II, especially from Eastern Europe, found a new life in America. Many of them were Russian Orthodox people, who had suffered deprivation of their age-old culture, especially of their faith, under communism, and now found themselves in a very strange culture. It was not long before so many of them found their spiritual home in the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York.
The monastery zealously keeps the memory of all of the reposed brethren of the brotherhood, those who have ended their lives within the walls of our sacred habitation. On the anniversary of their repose and also on their Name’s Day, the monastics chant “Memory Eternal” after the noon-time meal. Of course, all the monastics are prayed for every day, both living and dead, during the Proskomedia.
In the Holy Trinity Monastery, the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God has always been celebrated with special solemnity. Part of this is due, undoubtedly, to the fact that the Mother of God is especially venerated by monastics as our heavenly abbess, the directress to Heaven. Also, this is due to the fact that the feast is tied in to our Labor Day weekend celebration of the memory of our heavenly protector, the Venerable Job of Pochaev, as will be explained shortly.
On August 18, 2017 the Vigil was served for the great feast of the Lord’s Transfiguration. In addition to the brotherhood, neighbors, and some seminarians who have remained part of the summer, we were joined by many pilgrims, as is usual during the summer months. A group from Chicago, led by Fr. Leonardo Naidzions, cleric of the cathedral of the Protection of the Mother of God, joined us for the Divine Liturgy the following morning.
In the Greek Chasoslov (Orologion) of 1897 is explained thus the derivation of this feast: "By reason of the sicknesses, often everywhere occurring in August, from of old customarily it was done at Constantinople to carry out the Venerable Wood of the Cross along the roads and streets for the sanctifying of places and for the driving away of sicknesses. On the eve (31 July), carrying it out from the imperial treasury, they placed it upon the holy table of the Great Church (in honour of Saint Sophia – the Wisdom of God).
On the feast of St. Seraphim of Sarov, Holy Trinity Monastery was granted a special blessing: during the feast day services, the brotherhood and faithful prayed before an icon of the beloved Russian saint with segments of his hair, a piece of the rock upon which he prayed, and a part of his clothing. The icon was placed for all to venerate in the middle of the church, and the akathist to St. Seraphim was sung before it during Matins.
This year, the monastery’s commemoration of the Royal Martyrs was especially festive. It must be noted that it was 99 years ago that they suffered for Christ.
On the eve of the Church commemoration of Saints Sergius and Herman of Valaam (June 28 O.S.), the monastery had its own feast, the tonsure of Riassophore Monk John (Weeks) to the Small Schema and Novice Stephen (Manduke) to the Riassa.This grace-filled event took place just as the Church is finishing the fast of the Apostles.
On July 18 (N.S.), 1918, the day after the murder of the Russian Imperial family, the sister of the Empress, Grand Duchess Elizaveta Feodorovna, and other relatives of theirs, including the brothers, Princes Igor, Konstantin and Ioann Konstantinovich, were likewise killed by communist henchmen in Alpaevsk in the Ural Mountains area. On June 15, 2017, two sisters, granddaughters of Prince Ioann, visited Holy Trinity Monastery for the first time.
With God's grace, Holy Trinity was able to celebrate with solemnity Pentecost weekend (June 3-6). The cathedral was festively decorated with freshly-cut saplings, some tall enough to reach the base of the dome. This very strikingly manifests the church's concept of recapitulation, as the entire universe has been transfigured through Christ and brought within the purview of the Church through the power of the Spirit Who gives life to all.
On Monday, May 8th the faithful at Holy Trinity Monastery Celebrated the Divine Liturgy of St. Mark the Evangelist in honor of his feast day. In the Orthodox Church there are three orders for the Divine Liturgy that are celebrated in every parish—those of St. John Chrysostom, St. Basil the Great, and the Presanctified Liturgy of St. Gregory the Dialogist. But in addition to these three there are also several other, rarer Liturgies, characteristic of certain places or celebrated on certain days. In recent years the Liturgy of St. James has become increasingly known and celebrated; akin to it is that of St. Mark.
The Divine Liturgy of St. Mark is the ancient, traditional main Liturgy of the Orthodox Church of Alexandria. With the discovery of a papyrus from the end of the fourth century in 1928, it also has the most ancient documentation of any Orthodox Liturgy still in use. This is the Liturgy of the great hierarchs of Alexandria, whose names occur constantly in our Church calendar: Ss. Athanasius the Great, St. Cyrill of Alexandria, St. John the Almsgiver, and countless others. St. Anthony the Great and the Desert Fathers prayed at this Liturgy, and knew and loved its prayers.
On these last three days of Holy Week, the depth and poignancy of the period descended upon the monastics and seminarians, and a profound spirit of silence and contemplation permeated everyone and everything. Beginning with Great and Holy Thursday and the Liturgy of St. Basil that culminated with the foot-washing service, these days were festive with services, including the Matins with the readings of the 12 gospels, Royal Hours, Vespers with the Holy Winding Sheet, 2:00 am Lamentations, the Reading of the Book of Acts, and the Great and Holy SaturdayMidnight Office. After being slowly enveloped in the ethos of Holy Week with a complete cycle of Lenten services, everyone was even more struck by the triumphant and joyous arrival of Pascha at midnight. Truly, Christ’s Resurrection was worthily glorified! Christ is Risen!
To complete the Paschal service, the monastics, seminarians, and all the faithful pilgrims proceeded into the trapeza for the Paschal breakfast. We thank Christ for His saving Resurrection and gathering His faithful for this blessed and Great Feast. We also pray that all our friends have had an equally edifying Lent and Pascha!
Palm Sunday at Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary - 04/09/17
With God's grace, another Pascha approaches, and intensifying their preparations for the Great Feast, the monastics and seminarians of Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary began Holy Week with a joyous Palm Sunday. At the end of the All-Night Vigil on Saturday evening, the faithful were anointed with holy oil and received a candle, a palm, and a pussy willow. Starting on Holy Monday, there will be continuous services at the Cathedral in the mornings and evenings.
As Christ’s entrance into Jerusalem marks the beginning of His path to Crucifixion and Resurrection, we are invited to follow the journey from the temporal glory of the King’s procession into His capital, to the daily unfolding of His betrayal, and into the Eternal glory of God’s redemption for all of mankind. As is always important to remember, Judas’ betrayal and the Lord’s Crucifixion are striking events that should exhort us to repentance and ascetic struggle while the Resurrection is the embodiment of God’s promise for those who struggle to the end. We pray that all have a very edifying Holy Week and a joyous Pascha!
The Annunciation of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos - 04/07/17
The Faithful at Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the blessed feast of the Annunciation on the Friday before the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Today the Archangel announces to the Theotokos that She will conceive a son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. This is the “fountainhead of our salvation and the manifestation of the mystery which was from before the ages.”
So let us Cry out with the archangel to the Theotokos “Rejoice!” for She bears in Her womb He who the heavens cannot contain--the Saviour of the world; and let us set our minds on Christ as we approach His Divine Passion and Resurrection--the saving acts of our Lord for the salvation of the world.
This Tuesday (4/4/17), the Mystery of Holy Unction was provided to the faithful in the lower church of Holy Trinity Cathedral. Although the service began at 3pm when many people are still at work, the church was filled to capacity and even overflowing by the time the Mystery was administered.
Performed by most parishes once a year during the last weeks of Lent, the service of the Holy Unction is unique, as it offers Orthodox Christians in a public service what is usually only available privately at times of extreme illness. At Holy Trinity Monastery, it is performed completely with the seven priests called for by the rubrics. Prayers and supplications to the saints (especially to those who are known for their miraculous healings) culminate in the faithful’s making a circuit around the church to be anointed with holy oil by each of the priests. The priests anoint their foreheads, eyes, cheeks, ears, chest, and the tops and palms of the hands while praying for the healing of physical, emotional, and spiritual sufferings and diseases.
We thank the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for their gracious gift to the church that brings healing to both soul and body
The Saturday of the Akathist (Lauds of the Theotokos) - 03/31/17
The Akathist Hymn to the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever Virgin Mary, is one of the most beloved services of devotion that we have in the Orthodox Church. Tradition tells us that the Akathist was written in Constantinople, "the city of the Virgin," by St. Romanos the Melodist. The structure and format of the Akathist Hymn is so popular that many other Akathists have been written using its format. These include Akathists to Our Lord Jesus Christ, to the Cross, to various saints, etc.
The word "akathistos" translates as "not sitting," i.e., standing; normally all the faithful stand while it is being sung. The hymn has 24 stanzas, which alternate between long and short. Each kontakion ends with the singing of "Alleluia." While each longer ikos ends with the refrain: "Rejoice, O Bride Unwedded."
Most of the hymn is made up of praises directed to the Theotokos, beginning with the salutation of the Archangel Gabriel: "Rejoice." In each of the verses, the events related to our Lord's incarnation are remembered for our contemplation. In Ikos 1, the Archangel Gabriel marvels at the Divine self-emptying and the renewal of creation which occurs when Christ comes to dwell in the Virgin's womb. In Ikos 3 the unborn Forerunner and Baptist John prophetically rejoices. Then in Ikos 4 shepherds recognize Christ as a blameless Lamb, and rejoice that in the Virgin "the things of earth join chorus with the heavens." In the 5th Kontakion, the pagan Magi, following the light of the star, praise the Theotokos for revealing the light of the world.
Throughout the hymns progression, various people or groups encounter Christ and the Theotokos. Each bringing their own need; their own desire or expectation, and each finds his or her own spiritual need satisfied and fulfilled in Our Lord and in the Theotokos. Just as each generation of Orthodox, and each particular person who has prayed the Akathist, has also found in this hymn the inspired means of expressing gratitude and praise to the Theotokos for what she has accomplished for their salvation.
The Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 5th Thursday of Great Lent - 03/29/17
One can safely say that the wonderful poetic creation of St. Andrew of Crete, “The Great Canon,” contains the very essence of the meaning of Great Lent, the period of time appointed by the Holy Church for repentance, which is the very core of the Orthodox way of life. For this reason the Church gives it a great prominence in its services during the Fast. If during the First Week of Lent, or Clean Week, the Great Canon is divided up during the Great Compline service the first four nights, the whole composition is read in its entirety during Matins of the fifth Thursday, divided up and dispersed during the service along with the reading of the Life of St. Mary of Egypt, perhaps one of the most spectacular examples extant in Church hagiography of repentance. This happens just before the last week of Great Lent, when the Church is already preparing us for Lazarus Saturday and the feast of the Entrance of the Lord into Jerusalem.
As is traditional, the abbot of the monastery, Archimandrite Luke, along with the monastery clergy, read the Great Canon in its entirety in the middle of the church, as mentioned previously, dispersed throughout the Matins service, while the choir chanted. As directed by the rubrics of this service, Fr. Luke read the first half of the life of St. Mary just before the Canon was started, and the second half was read after the first part of the Canon. The Life reflects the meaning of the Canon, which gives wonderful examples of repentance, foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
This service inspires us in our struggles during Great Lent, preparing us for the journey of the Lord’s Passion, leading up to His joyful Resurrection.
Fr. Peter Heers Delivers Speech at Lenten Retreat in New Jersey - 03/20/17
Archpriest Peter Heers recently delivered a presentation at the Lenten Clerical Retreat that took place at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Howell, New Jersey. The retreat began on March 20th and ended on March 22nd--the feast of the 40 Martyrs of Sebaste. The retreat took place under the aegis of two wonderworking icons--The Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God and the Myrrh Streaming Icon of the Mother of God “Softener of Evil Hearts.” The event was presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion who was also accompanied by Metropolitan Jonah, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, and Bishop Irenei of Sacramento. More on the retreat can be found here:
Fr. Peter Heers is currently the instructor of Old and New Testament at our seminary and his the translator/publisher of many books, some of which include his most recent book The Ecclesiological Renovation of Vatican II and other well known titles such as The Life of Elder Paisios, The Epistles of Elder Paisios, and The Truth of Our Faith.
Fr. Peter Heers, in his presentation, discussed the recent Council of Crete that took place in 2016. In his Lecture, Fr. Peter Heers addresses the problems that preceded the council and the secrecy surrounding the pre-conciliar text that were released just a few months before the council itself; he also addresses the implications of the decisions and actions of the Council of Crete.
To download a copy of Fr. Peter Heers' speech click here.
The Veneration of the Cross, 3rd Sunday of Great Lent - 03/19/17
In the middle of Great Lent, the Holy Church provides the faithful with inspiration to continue with our Lenten struggle and reminds us of what lays ahead, the Holy Passion of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
On the eve of Sunday, March 19 (March 6 O.S.), Sunday of the Veneration of the Cross, during the All-Night Vigil, a cross containing a relic of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord, richly decorated with flowers, was brought out of the altar by the abbot of the monastery, Archimandrite Luke, attended by monastery clergy, for veneration by the faithful, this Sunday greatly increased in number by numerous pilgrims from Serbian Orthodox parishes. The procession was attended by the peeling of the church bells and accompanied by hymns.
Once a year during Great Lent, Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary celebrate the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of St. James, the Brother of the Lord. This is a very unique service, not only because the Liturgy of St. James is the oldest of the eastern liturgies extant but also because this presanctified version of the liturgy was translated by ROCOR’s Bishop Jerome (Shaw).
Harkening to the Holy Sepulcher and to pilgrimages to Jerusalem, the liturgy creates an atmosphere that is distinctly its own while being clearly within the eastern ethos. It reminds those present of the ancient origins of the Church, creating a bond to the sacred spaces that may be forgotten about in America.
Also, this gives the seminarians the experience of the richness and variety of Orthodox tradition, whose differences are held together by the firm bond of Faith. Lord willing, they will transfer this spirit to their parishes when they graduate.
On the 9th anniversary of the blessed repose of Metropolitan Laurus, former primate of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad as well as Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery and Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary, March 3/16 a pannykhida was served in the monastery cathedral by the monastery clergy. The monastery brotherhood, as well as the seminary and our many neighbors and pilgrims, preserve zealously the memory of Vladyka Laurus, who was our abbot for 32 years and also headed the Church Abroad during one of its most crucial moments, the reconciliation of the Church Abroad with the church in Russia.
Fr. Lazarus was born in Russia in 1940 during the Soviet Union. He and his parents were part of the underground catacomb church during the Soviet Union. In the early 1990’s Fr. Lazarus came to the U.S. He came to Jordanville and spent 1 year of seminary there. For various reasons he had to stop seminary and find a secular job near the monastery, but he continued to attend services on Sundays and Feast days throughout the year.
Then Fr. Lazarus became very sick and soon after was accepted as a Novice. No one knew what his illness was; he went to doctors and his medical records only showed was that he had some sort of “weakness.” Fr. Lazarus’ answer to this was that he didn’t want to know what it was, he only knew that it was a gift from God and the cure for his soul
In the following years he bore his illness with much patience and endurance, and without complaining. He knew the services very well and when he was no longer able to attend services because of his illness, he listened to the recordings of the services from his room, following them in the service books as well.
Fr. Lazarus was also very forgiving. He would often quote the words of our Saviour to forgive “up to seventy times seven” (Matt 18:22). If there was ever a quarrel between him and another he would frequently stop in the middle of the quarrel and ask forgiveness of the person and the quarrel would end immediately.
The last few months of his life were very peaceful. On the Saturday before the Sunday of Forgiveness Fr. Lazarus started to become very sick. During the first week of lent, he would go between being very sick and being normal. He received communion on Wednesday during Clean week and reposed on the following Friday evening.
First Week, marked by 10-hours daily of church services and one meal a day, culminated with the Triumph of Orthodoxy, reinforcing the purpose of our Lenten struggle as the means by which we fully incorporate ourselves into “the Faith that has established the universe.” To amplify the solemnity of this celebration, seminarians and monastics participated in hierarchical vespers and liturgy with Bishop Jerome (Shaw), a former seminarian at Holy Trinity Seminary and one of the major translators of Russian Orthodox liturgical texts into English and Slavonic.
Before the service of the Triumph of Orthodoxy, including the anathemas that can be recited only in the presence of a bishop, Bishop Jerome reminded the congregation that the anathemas are not curses but are outlines that define the boundaries of the Church. They act as a guide that functions not negatively, by creating opposition to outsiders, but positively, preserving and protecting those inside the Body of Christ, deepening our understanding of the uniqueness of our divinely transmitted tradition.
With the first week of Lent completed, we pray that the Lord will preserve us and all the faithful for the remainder of this season so that we can successfully participate in His Resurrection on Pascha.
9:00 There will be a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. After the Liturgy the Service of the Triumph of Orthodoxy will be served in the main Cathedral of the Monastery.
Clean Week at Holy Trinity Monastery & Seminary - 02/27/17
To begin Lent’s solemnity, the monastics and seminarians of Holy Trinity began the season with a week of intensive prayer and fasting.
The community awoke together at 4:30 in the morning to start its labor of participating in 10 hours of services. Midnight office, matins, hours, vespers, and compline, punctuated throughout with spiritual readings and advice, ensured that the day was dedicated to the glory of God and to promoting the rigorous self-examination that develops into true repentance. To reinforce this prayer schedule, the trapeza served one meal daily, the first two days offering only potatoes and pickled cabbage.
Asceticism is essential to develop spiritual strength in the future leaders of our church, and all Orthodox Christians. Training his body according to reason, the seminarian clears and focuses his mind, growing in spiritual discernment and intellectual acuity. These young men also loosen themselves from the bonds of the world, reorient their passions, and experience the fullness of Orthodox prayer. Not only does this help them cultivate habits that will remain with them throughout their lives, but it also nurtures the characteristics of a successful priest. This is why we believe that integrating a seminary education with a monastic environment is crucial to the students.
We are happy to announce that our Icon Studio's roof has been successfully replaced! With your prayers and financial assistance, we were able to complete the project before the roof collapsed under the weight of the winter's snow. Therefore, we offer a sincere thank you for your generosity during this campaign.
Having completed this work, we are not only going to continue the iconographic ministry started by Fr. Kyprian Pyzhov but have plans to expand production. As part of this, we are currently updating our website to make it more user-friendly, facilitating access to the over 1000 icons we have available. With this change, we hope to make it easy for the faithful to purchase high-quality, low-cost icons or to simply browse the index for their own edification.
Arrival of Kursk Root Icon and Pannikhida for Metropolitan Laurus - 01/09/17
On the morning of Wednesday, August 31, the Kursk Root icon will arrive for the morning liturgy. After lunch on Wednesday, Bishop Nikolai will serve a pannikhidi for the memory of Metropolitan Laurus.
Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary wishes you and your loved ones a blessed Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord!
"Your Nativity, O Christ our God, Has shone to the world the Light of wisdom! For by it, those who worshipped the stars, Were taught by a Star to adore You, The Sun of Righteousness, And to know You, the Orient from on High. O Lord, glory to You!"
Archbishop Gabriel Visit and the Tonsure of Two Monastics - 01/01/17
The Monastery experienced a spiritual blessing on the eve of the Nativity Forefeast. On Saturday evening and Sunday morning his Eminence, Archbishop Gabriel presided over the divine services, greeting everyone on the future feasts of our Lord’s Nativity and Theophany. On Sunday evening a general matins was served in honor of the Forefeast and St. John of Kronstadt. Immediately following the service the abbot, Archimandrite Luke, tonsured Novice Lev (from Russia) and Novice Angelos (from Scotland) as rassophore monks.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary provides students with rigorous academics and traditional spiritual formation, drawing pious Orthodox from all over the world who want to experience its unique environment. Incorporating an undergraduate education with a deep liturgical life in a monastic setting, we offer students a vital atmosphere to learn all the aspects of becoming a future pastor of the Church.
Your donations help us sustain our rich educational experience. This past year, we hired new faculty to teach Scripture and Philosophy and have invited guest lecturers from across the country to give talks on specialized subjects. To further give variety to the students’ intellectual development, we provide them the opportunity to participate in conferences.
Therefore, on this Giving Tuesday (11/29/2016), we ask for your generous support as we move forward, continuing to provide exceptional training for the future leaders of the Church and to improve the quality of education at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. Additionally, this year only, every dollar you donate up to $50,000 to Holy Trinity Seminary by Giving Tuesday will be tripled by a generous grant. Please help us reach this goal – we cannot do this without your help!
If you have questions, please give us a call at 315-858-0945 or email us at info@hts.edu.
Panikhida For Descendants of Gallipoli Emigres - 11/16/16
From the Synod website:
"This year marks an anniversary for the descendants of the Russian emigres in Gallipoli. It is now 95 years since the founding of the Society of Gallipoli. Lieutenant-General Baron Wrangel established the Society on November 22, 1921, exactly a year after the arrival of the first troops of the Russian Army to Gallipoli.
In memory of this occasion, the Main Administration of the Union of the Descendants of the Russians of Gallipoli decided that every year, on the closest Saturday to November 22, to perform pannikhida services wherever the descendants of those members of the White Army live.
November 19, 2016
The Union of the Descendants of the Russians of Gallipoli once again invites you to join us in common prayer for our forefathers, the heroes of the White Army. In accordance with tradition, we ask you all, scattered throughout the world, to organize memorial services where you live, to mark the heroic feats of our ancestors. Those who can organize such a service are encouraged to notify us at contact@udcrg.org
Schedule of services in English-speaking countries (services are scheduled in 29 cities worldwide):
Sydney, Australia, SS Peter and Paul Cathedral, 4 pm.
Dear Supporters of Holy Trinity Monastery, The original roof of the Icon Studio building has finally lost its structural integrity, its wooden frame damaged by the heavy rains and snow of upstate New York. Water is leaking directly into the workshop, and we worry that the roof will not be able to survive the harsh winter conditions that are rapidly approaching. Therefore, we need to raise $36,000 by November 1 for this rebuilding project, and we need your support to achieve this!
Less than a month has passed since we first appealed to your generosity for the sake of rebuilding our Icon Studio's collapsing roof, and yet again, you have exceeded our expectations. In this short period, we have raised $13,500 of the $36,000 required to complete the project. With these funds, we have purchased the materials needed to begin the reconstruction. This is truly a blessing!
With your assistance, we will be able to continue our ministry that brings the beauty of the Lord into homes and churches throughout the world!
This past weekend, Holy Trinity hosted the myrrh-streaming Iveron Icon from Hawaii. It was a true blessing to our community. Together with a pilgrimage of over 100 faithful from Washington D.C., we celebrated Saturday Night Vigil and Sunday Liturgy with the icon. All present were anointed with its miraculous myrrh, which is composed not only of myrrh but of other substances unknown to modern science. After liturgy, each monastic cell and seminarian dorm room was blessed with the icon.
A panikhida was also held at the grave of the Blessed Martyr Brother Jose Muñoz-Cortez, the guardian of the Montreal myrrh-streaming Iveron Icon. His murder and the subsequent disappearance of the icon occurred on October 31, 1997. The current myrrh-streaming Iveron Icon from Hawaii is a copy of this Montreal icon.
Arrival of the Myrrh-Streaming Iveron Icon and Panikhida - 10/25/16
During the weekend of October 29th and 30th, Holy Trinity Monastery will welcome the arrival of the myrrh-streaming Iveron icon of the Mother of God. God willing, the icon will arrive early Saturday afternoon and a panikhida service for Br. Jose will be held at 3:00pm.
Holy Trinity Monastery Open House - Oct. 22nd, 2016 - 10/09/16
Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Monastery invites you to an Open House on Saturday October 22nd, 2016 from 1:00 to 4:00pm.
Nestled in the hills above the beautiful Mohawk Valley, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Monastery cordially invites you to come and experience our open house — a day in the life of an Orthodox monastery.
The original roof of the Icon Studio building has finally lost its structural integrity, its wooden frame damaged by the heavy rains and snow of upstate New York. Water is leaking directly into the workshop, and we worry that the roof will not be able to survive the harsh winter conditions that are rapidly approaching. Therefore, we need to raise $36,000 by November 1 for this rebuilding project, and we need your support to achieve this!
The current building was built in the 1990s as a new home for the Icon Studio founded by the renowned iconographer, Fr. Kyprian Pyzhov, who was instrumental in returning Russian iconography back to its traditional roots. In this way, he founded the Jordanville style, known for its simplicity and dynamism. With faithfulness to tradition and a distinctive style, Fr. Kyprian's work was highly prized, and he was commissioned to paint murals for cathedrals and churches from Luxembourg to San Francisco.
The popularity of Fr. Kyprian's icons as well as his reputation for living a holy life drew disciples to him who would continue his work. To this day, the Icon Studio is very active with an inventory of approximately 1000 images on file. It acts as both a workshop that produces icons for purchase (both hand painted and mounted prints) and a training center for anyone who wants to learn the craft from master iconographers.
Please help us continue our work and preserve the memory of Fr. Kyprian! May God bless your generosity!
Please donate by using the PayPal button below. Please write “Icon Studio" in the "Add special instructions to the seller" section of the donation review page.
You can also write a check to Holy Trinity Monastery with "Icon Studio" in the memo. Please mail checks to Holy Trinity Monastery, P.O. Box 36, Jordanville, NY 13361.
May God bless you for your generosity!
With love in Christ, Archimandrite Luke Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery
Thank Your for Your Generosity! Apiary Update - 10/03/16
To our generous donors and supporters,
It is with joy and gratitude that Holy Trinity Monastery can announce the success of our campaign to raise funds for the rebuilding of the apiary that was destroyed by fire. Through your generosity and prayers, we have exceeded the necessary $4,000 for building materials and have raised $4,380! Glory to God!
The new apiary will help to increase the monastery’s production of honey by giving novice-monk Lev a place near his 15 bee colonies to extract honey and store resources. We have already started buying the essential materials for this project and have been using our in-house staff to raise the structure. The building is in its skeleton phase with a concrete foundation, lumber frame, and insulation in the walls. As we complete it, we will add plywood for the finishing, insulation to the roof, and silicon to patch leaks in the roof. We will update you when the building is finished! In fact, the finished building will be better than the old building which burned down. This is more than a replacement; it is an improvement.
Through your generous support, one of the oldest operations at Holy Trinity Monastery can continue. It was started by Fr. Innokenti 50 years ago under the abbacy of Archbishop Averky. Archimandrite Panteleimon, the monastery’s founder, took a great interest in it. Honey production benefits the monastery by providing one of God’s best foods for health as well as additional income for the monastery by selling it.
Monastery honey is blessed by special prayers from the Book of Needs said over each batch. This reminds us, as the Fathers of the Church also remind us, that we are to imitate the diligent bees. As the bee collects pollen from various flowers to produce its honey, so we are to collect all that is good in the world and deliver it back to Christ, who is the author of those goods.
It is with your diligence that we have been able to continue this important work, and we thank you for all your efforts in helping us with it!
An interview with Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka) about his attendance of a recent symposium in Moscow, Russia - 09/29/16
From September 21 - 25, 2016, Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka) attended a symposium called “Rus and Holy Mount Athos: a Thousand Years of Spiritual and Cultural Unity” in Moscow, Russia. On September 29, Deacon Andrei Psarev, a member of the Holy Trinity Seminary faculty, interviewed Fr. Luke in his office in Jordanville, and asked him to share his impressions from this event.
At 3:00pm on Saturday of the Labor Day weekend, His Grace, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, along with the clergy, monks and faithful that had come to Jordanville for the festivities, gathered in the main cathedral of Holy Trinity Monastery. On Saturday, September 3rd, the All-Night Vigil was served by His Grace, Bishop Nicholas, accompanied by the monastery and visiting clergy. The monastery choir was fortified by male members of the Young Singer’s Conference. On Sunday morning, September 4th, the combined clergy processed to the entrance to the Trapeza, and greeted Bishop Nicholas with glory, and processed back to the church. Labor Day Monday was even more festive than the day before. His Grace, Archbishop Gabriel was joined by Bishop Nicholas, Archimandrite Luke and the gathered clergy for Divine Liturgy.
As you may know, part of our apiary burnt down in 2014, causing $20,000 worth of damage. Brother Lev, our beekeeper, has been trying to rebuild it as well as he can. He needs to repair an existing building in order to process this year's harvest. So far he has been extracting honey by hand in the kitchen!
We have already invested in digging a well and extending power lines to the apiary to provide water and electricity to the site.
Now we need $4,000 to make essential repairs to the apiary building in order to process honey normally this year.
The apiary has been an important part of the monastery for decades. We need your support for the apiary to continue to operate.
You can support this project by donating using PayPal on the monastery website - http://jordanville.org/donate.html. Please write "Apiary" in the "Add special instructions to the seller" section of the donation review page.
You can also write a check to Holy Trinity Monastery with "Apiary" in the memo. Please mail checks to Holy Trinity Monastery, P.O. Box 36, Jordanville, NY 13361.
May God bless you for your generosity!
With love in Christ, Archimandrite Luke Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery
August 31, 2016 was the namesday of the late Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Florus and the anniversary of Archimandrite Sergius’ (Romberg) repose. After the noon meal, his grace Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan, accompanied by clergy from the monastery, Canada, and Luxembourg, served a pannykhida at the grave of Metropolitan Laurus.
With the blessing of Metropolitan Ilarion and the Spiritual Council Holy Trinity Monastery, Archimandrite Luke traveled to Richmond Maine to tonsure into the Rassaphore Novice Theodora, a former novice of St. Elizabeth's Skete in Jordanville. Sister Theodora will be living in the annex immediately adjacent to the church in the kelia of St. Theophan the Recluse. The kelia is directly under the spiritual, direction of the Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery. Sister Theodora as part of her monastic obediences opens the church before dawn with the reading of the Midnight Office and in the evening with Compline. The rector of the parish Archpriest Chad, the parish council and parishioners have expressed their support for Sister Theodora.
On August 28, 2016 Archimandrite Luke and the brotherhood of Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Dormition of the Most Pure Theotokos. They were joined by pilgrims from around the United States and Canada.
On August 19, 2016, Metropolitan Jonah celebrated the Transfiguration of the Lord at Holy Trinity Monastery. Archimandrite Luke and the monastic clergy served with the Metropolitan. They were joined by pilgrims from around the United States and Canada.
Sacred Images: Icons from Holy Trinity Monastery - 08/09/16
Over 50 Russian Orthodox icons and religious objects from the collection of the Foundation of Russian History and Holy Trinity Monastery will be on display at Herkimer County Community College’s Cogar Gallery. The exhibition Sacred Images: Icons from Holy Trinity Monastery, running from August 12 to September 23, introduces viewers to the art and history of icon painting, the symbolism of icons and their role in Orthodox worship, and various styles and methods of producing icons.
PaTRAM Institute presents the first annual Labor Day Young Singers' Conference! Orthodox singers! Come together for the Glory of God and participate in an unforgettable weekend event at the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY!
This conference will take place from 6PM Friday, September 2nd, to 12PM Monday, September 5th, 2016. Contact Sanya at sanya@patraminstitute.org about the opportunity to obtain full scholarships that cover the entire cost of conference tuition: $475. Full details may be found at http://www.patraminstitute.org.
The service for St. Sergius of Radonezh will begin at 9:00am on Monday, July 18th (5th), and the All Night Vigil will begin at 3:30pm Sunday evening (July 17th/4th).
On July 12th, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast of the holy Apostles Peter and Paul. The Abbot, Archimandrite Luke presided, assisted by the clergy of Holy Trinity Monastery. This year, the brethren and clergy marked Archimandrite Luke’s 35th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. Hegumen Theophylact and Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow presented Archimandrite Luke with an icon of the Most Holy Trinity to mark this occasion.
On June 20, 2016, Metropolitan Hilarion came to Holy Trinity Monastery and joined Bishop Nicholas to celebrate the monastery’s patronal feastday. Sixteen priests and nine deacons from Holy Trinity Monastery, the Diocese of Eastern America and New York, and neighboring dioceses concelebrated with the bishops. After the Liturgy, there was a moleben with a cross procession. A festive trapeza followed, and then the clergy, brotherhood, and pilgrims moved over to the old print shop for a festal reception.
On June 18-19, 2016, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan celebrated the Vigil and Liturgy for Pentecost, followed by the Vespers with kneeling prayers. Archimandrite Luke, hieromonks, and local priests concelebrated at these services. There was a cross procession during the Litia around the cathedral. After the Liturgy and Vespers on Sunday, there was a festive trapeza for the clergy, monastic brotherhood, and many pilgrims that travelled here to celebrate with us.
Sunday, May 29, 2016 marked the 68th Commencement for Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. Metropolitan Hilarion led the services and commencement. During the liturgy seminarian Sergei Kosov was ordained to the diaconate, Priest Ephraim Willmarth was awarded the Nabedrnik, and the deacons Peter Markevic, Andrei Psarev and Andrei Doubleday were awarded the right to wear the double orarion.
A full report on the graduation will appear soon on the Seminary website www.hts.edu
2. OBSERVATIONS ON THE TEXT PREPARED FOR THE PAN-ORTHODOX COUNCIL: “RELATIONS OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH WITH THE REST OF THE CHRISTIAN WORLD” by Dr. Demetrios Tselengides
3. A SECOND INTERVENTION-CONFESSION OF FAITH: ON THE DOCUMENT "ORGANIZATION AND WORKING PROCEDURE OF THE HOLY AND GREAT COUNCIL" by Dr. Demetrios Tselengides
7. SECOND LETTER TO THE HOLY SYNOD OF THE CHURCH OF GREECE ON THE TEXTS PROPOSED FOR APPROVAL BY THE UPCOMING GREAT AND HOLY COUNCIL OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH by Met. Hierotheos Vlachos
11. Response to Professor George Demacopoulos (USA) concerning the article “Innovation Cloaked in the Guise of Tradition:Anti-Ecumenist Efforts to Derail the Holy and Great Synod”by Protopresbyter Anastasios Gkotsopoulos
13. Sharp and Grave Reactions from the Holy Monasteries of Mt. Athos to the Pan-Orthodox Council The Holy Monasteries of Mt. Athos have responded to the draft documents and methodology of the Pan Orthodox Council with sharp and pointed reactions. The Letters of Athonite Monasteries, sent to the Holy Community of Mt. Athos, have been released to the public. The letters were written in reaction to the Pan Orthodox documents sent to the Holy Monasteries by the Patriarchate of Constantinople. On account of the seriousness of the matter, it was unanimously decided that the texts prepared for approval by the Council be examined in a specially called Meeting of the Representatives and Abbots of the Holy Monasteries, scheduled to take place after the Bright Week of Pascha.
The Athonite Fathers call attention to the danger presented by the Pan Orthodox Council, as it is being carried out. Namely, among other things, they see:
* the concilarity of the Church being undermined and a theology supportive of primacy being promoted (due to the limited participation of bishops and an excessive authority given to the primates of each of Local Church), *an unacceptable ambiguity in the pre-synodical texts, allowing for interpretations which divert from Orthodox dogma, *a placing, as the basis of the dialogues, of "the faith and tradition of the ancient Church and the Seven Ecumenical Councils," such that the subsequent history of the Orthodox Church appears to be somehow lacking or impaired, *an attempt by some to gain pan-Orthodox confirmation of the scandalous and totally unacceptable texts approved within the World Council of Churches, *and the unacceptable application of the term "church" to schisms and heresies.
Excerpts and full translations of the letters will be forthcoming.
Radonitsa - Metropolitan Hilarion's Paschal Visit and Ordination of Seminarian to Diaconate - 05/10/16
On May 10, 2016, Metropolitan Hilaron made his Paschal Visit to Holy Trinity Monastery. During the Hierarchical Liturgy, Metropolitan Hilarion tonsured first-year seminarian Michael Storozhev a reader, ordained him to the Subdiaconate, and then ordained him to the Diaconate after the Anaphora. We wish Fr. Michael and his wife many years!
On May 3, 2016, Archbishop Gabriel served the Bright Tuesday Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. After the service, Archbishop Gabriel led the Cross Procession to all four sides of the church with the reading of the Gospel.
On April 30, 2016, at 2 am, Holy Trinity Monastery served the Holy Saturday Matins service.
Joseph begged Thy holy body from Pilate and, anointing it with sweet-smelling spices, he wrapped it in clean linen and laid it in a new tomb; and early in the morning the women bearing myrrh cried out: "As Thou hast foretold, O Christ, show us the Resurrection."
On April 30, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery served the Holy Saturday Vesperal Liturgy. Following the Liturgy, bread and wine were blessed in remembrance of the early Christians in Jeruseleum who sustained themselves on just bread and wine until the Paschal Liturgy at midnight.
Abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) serves the The Order of Washing of the Feet - 04/28/16
On Holy Thursday, Abbot Archimandrite Luke served the The Order of Washing of the Feet after the Holy Thursday Liturgy.
"Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God; so He got up from the meal, took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist.After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him." - The Gospel according to St. John.
On April 28, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery led by Abbot Fr. Luke served the Good Friday Matins with the reading of the 12 Passion Gospels.
"Come, and let us all sing the praises of Him Who was crucified for us. For Mary said when she beheld Him on the Tree: 'Though Thou dost endure the Cross, yet Thou art my Son and God.'" - Kontakion of Holy and Great Friday
On April 24, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Entry of Our Lord into Jeruseleum. Following Liturgy, Abbot Fr. Luke wished all a blessed feast day and start to Holy Week and Our Lord's Pascha!
"Today the grace of the Holy Spirit has gathered us together. Let us all take up Thy cross and say: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest! "
General Unction at Holy Trinity Monastery - 04/19/16
On April, 19, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery held its annual General Unction service in Holy Trinity Cathedral.
"Thou who alone art a speedy succor, O Christ, manifest Thy speedy visitation from on high upon Thy sick servants; deliver them from their infirmities, and cruel pain; and raise them up again to sing praises unto Thee, and without ceasing, to glorify Thee; through the prayers of the Birth-Giver of God, O Thou who alone lovest mankind."
On April 7, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of the Annunciation. His Grace, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada served the All-Night Vigil and celebrated the Vesperal-Liturgy on Thursday at Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Triumph of Orthodoxy at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/20/16
On Saturday, March 19, His Grace, Metropolitan Jonah arrived at Holy Trinity Monastery to lead the Divine Services for the Triumph of Orthodoxy. Following Sunday's Liturgy, Metropolitan Jonah delivered a sermon about how all of the faithful are called to Christ in the same way that Nathanael was called by Christ as described in the Gospels. Following the sermon, all the clergy gathered in the middle of the cathedral to serve the "Rite of Orthodoxy." Holy Trinity Seminary Alumnus Fr. Peter Markevich led the proclaiming of the anathemas.
First Three Days of Lent - Photo Report / 8th Anniversary of Repose of Metropolitan Laurus - 03/16/16
Wednesday March 17, 2016, marked the 8th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Laurus. Metropolitan Laurus was commemorated at the Litya for the Dead and he was remembered with the singing of "Memory Eternal" after the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.
Clean Monday - Kontakion from Great Canon of Saint Andrew - 03/15/16
"My soul, my soul, arise! Why are you sleeping? The end is drawing near, and you will be confounded. Awake, then, and be watchful, that Christ our God may spare you, Who is everywhere present and fills all things."
Changes to Presanctified Liturgy Schedule - 03/14/16
On Tuesday, March 22, Wednesday, March 23, Wednesday, March 30, Wednesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 20, the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts will take place at 5pm.
Video Selections from Forgiveness Sunday Vigil - 03/12/16
Here are a few selections from the Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary choir from the Forgiveness Sunday All-Night Vigil service in Holy Trinity Monastery Cathedral.
Feast of the Three Hierarchs and HTS Alumni Gathering - 02/12/16
From February 10 - 12, Holy Trinity Seminary celebrated the Feast of the Three Hierarchs, the school's patronal feast day. In conjunction with the feast, the seminary also held its 2nd annual alumni gathering. Many alumni from around the country visted their alma mater. On February 12, the celebrations culminated with the hierarchical liturgy concelebrated by Archbishop Gabriel, Bishop George, and Bishop Nicholas. Following the liturgy, a reception was held in the seminary hall for all of the seminarians, faculty, brothers of the monastery, and community members.
In late December 2015, Abbot Archimandrite Luke attended and presented a talk in Germany on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Monastery of St. Job of Pochaev in Munich, Germany. The seminar began on December 24 and ended on December 26. Various talks were given about the history of the monastery, its historic connection to Pochaev, and the monasteries in Vladimirova, Slovakia and Jordanville, New York. Father Luke’s talk in Russian was titled, “Two Branches: One Root," where he traced the history of those monks that had lived in Germany and then settled in America at Holy Trinity Monastery.
Nativity of Our Lord at Holy Trinity Monastery - 01/07/16
On January 7, 2016, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord. Following Liturgy, a festive meal was served in the monastery trapeza. Immediately after the meal, all of the brothers of monastery, seminarians, and members of the community enjoyed a reception in Abbot Fr Luke's office. Holy Trinity Monastery wishes you and your loved ones a blessed feast! Christ is born!
St Herman Youth Conference Visits Jordanville - 12/24/15
On December 24, 2015, the St Herman Youth Conference spent the day in Jordanville. In the morning, about 100 youth listened to a lecture about addiction. Following the lecture, everyone enjoyed a casual meal in the Seminary Hall while listening to a visiting priest from St. Petersburg speak about youth conferences in Russia. After lunch, the youth spent time viewing the museum, visiting the St Elizabeth Skete, seeing the cemetery, hearing about the monastery publishing office, viewing the bell tower, and enjoying a bonfire by the St. John of Kronstadt Chapel.
12/5: Archbishop Gabriel, Bishop Nicholas, and Kursk-Root Icon to be at Monastery - 12/02/15
Only on Saturday, December 5 Archbishop Gabriel, Bishop Nicholas, and Kursk-Root Icon to be at Monastery. On Sunday, December 6, Archbishop Gabriel will serve Hierarchical Liturgy at the Monastery.
For the first time, Holy Trinity Seminary is participating in #GivingTuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. Thanks to a generous donor, every dollar you give to Holy Trinity Seminary starting today until December 1 will be doubled! All donations will be matched up to $50,000. Donate today and help the Seminary raise $100,000by December 1.
New Tombstone Blessed for Bishop Constantine (Essensky) - 11/21/15
On November 21, 2015 Archimandrite Luke of Holy Trinity Monastery blessed the new tombstore for Bishop Constantine (Essensky) at the brotherhoood cemetery located behind Holy Trinity Cathedral. Bishop Constantine was reburied at Holy Trinity Monastery on Decemember 1, 2014.
ALL ALUMNI INVITED: February 10 -12: Seminary Alumni Reunion at HTS - 12/11/15 - 10/28/15
Alumni Reunion February 10 -12, 2016
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary Join your fellow Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary alumni for the Second Annual Alumni Reunion on the eve of the Feast of Three Hierarchs, the patronal feast of our seminary. Come to Jordanville to meet old friends, get reacquainted with your alma mater, experience the liturgical services as you remember them with the Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary Choir, and to meet current faculty, staff, and seminarians.
The reunion program begins on Wednesday evening and concludes with the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Three Hierarchs on Friday, February 12, followed by a reception. For more information and updates about the gathering, check our website www.hts.edu. We look forward to seeing you!
On Saturday, October 24, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery held an open house for the neighboring community. During the open house, Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka) spoke to the neighboring community about the history of the Orthodox Church, and Fr. Theophylact spoke about the history of the monastery. Following the talks, guests were led over to the Cathedral with the ringing of bells from the monastery bell tower. A short choir concert was conducted in Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Fr. Theophylact explained the particulars of an Orthodox church. Guests were also able to view the Foundation of Russian History Museum. We thank all those who visited, and we hope to see them again soon!
October 9-10, 2015: HTOS holds an academic symposium "Saint Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow (1865-1925): His Life and Times" - 10/16/15
From October 9 to 10, 2015, Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary held its second annual academic symposium, entitled “Saint Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow (1865-1925): His Life and Times.” The Symposium was dedicated to the Saint’s “double” anniversary this year: 150 years since his birth, and 90 years since his blessed repose.
Metropolitan Philip of Poltava and Mirgorod Visits Jordanville - 10/11/15
From October 10 - 11, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery had the great blessing to be visited by Metropolitan Philip of Poltava and Mirgorod. On Saturday, Metropolitan Philip delivered a few remarks about the life of Patriarch Tikhon during the St. Tikhon Symposium at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. After Sunday's Hierarchical Liturgy, Metropolitan Philip thanked Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka) for the opportunity to visit Jordanville. He referred to Jordanville as a legendary place, and he was delighted to finally visit. We thank him for his participation in the St Tikhon Conference and his continued support of Jordanville.
Fall Pictures at Holy Trinity Monastery - 10/08/15
Holy Trinity Monastery is located near New York's historic Mohawk Valley, one mile north of the village of Jordanville, within a triangle formed by Cooperstown, Utica, and Albany. It is also known for its beautiful fall scenery.
Saturday 10 am October 10: Free Lecture about Patriarch Tikhon - 10/06/15
You are invited to a free lecture at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary (Jordanville) by Dr. Scott Kenworthy at 10 am on Saturday, October 10, 2015. The address is entitled "Before the Patriarchate: The Life and Times of St. Tikhon until 1917" and will be delivered in English. Following the lecture, you will be able to view the new Foundation of Russian History Museum and Holy Trinity Monastery Cathedral.
Exaltation of the Cross (Photos and Video) - 09/27/15
On Sunday, September 27, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated The Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. At the end of Saturday night's Vigil, Abbot Archimandrite Luke performed the Rite of the Exaltation of the Cross in Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Fr. Luke's invitation and visit to Slovakia - 09/23/15
An appeal was made to Holy Trinity Monastery to assist with refurbishing the roof on the church in Ladomirova, Slovakia, where many of the monastics of our monastery resided before the advance of the Soviet Army. A donation was sent, and the reply was an invitation from His Beatitude Rastislav of the Czech Lands and Slovakia, to Archimandrite Luke to take part in their celebration of the feast of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist. A large portion of the Holy Head is enshrined at the church. Father Luke arrived on the eve of the feast day itself and attended the services there, the celebration being transferred to the nearest Sunday. Immediately after the Liturgy, Father Luke began his extensive tour of all the local parish communities.
On September 21, 2015, Abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) led the Liturgy for the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos in the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Holy Trinity Monastery wishes you a happy feast day! С праздником!
The Labor Day Commemoration of St. Job of Pochaev - 09/11/15
Every year in September, on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend, Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY triumphally celebrates the memory of its heavenly intercessor, Venerable Job of Pochaev.
On Monday, August 31, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery led by Archbishop Gabriel served a Pannikyda for Metropolitan Laurus behind the cathedral at the Metropolitan's grave. Memory Eternal!
On Friday, August 28, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Dormition of the Theotokos. Two Liturgies were served for the feast. An English Liturgy was served in the cemetery chapel which is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos and a Slavonic Liturgy was served in the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Following both Liturgies, a moleben was held at the cemetery chapel.
Aug 29-31: Vladyka Gabriel to be at Jordanville for Pannykhida for Metr. Laurus on Monday - 08/27/15
Vladyka Gabriel will serve the All- Night Vigil at Holy Trinity Monastery on Saturday, August 29th, a Hierarchical Liturgy on August 30th, and а Pannykhida for Metropolitan Laurus on Monday for Sts. Flor and Laurus.
The Pannykhida will begin at about 12:30 on Monday after lunch.
Thank you for your support on oil tank project! - 08/25/15
On behalf of the Brotherhood of Holy Trinity Monastery we would like to express our gratitude to all our donors who helped defray the expenses of the environmental project concerning our oil tanks. The final cost was $816,295.50. The financial burden would have been impossible without your support.
On August 19, 2015, led by Abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated Transfiguration. Following the service, Abbot Luke blessed fruit for the feast.
Beginning of Dormition Fast - Blessing of Water and Honey - 08/14/15
On August 14, 2015, to begin the Dormition Fast, a blessing of water and honey was served at Holy Trinity Monastery. The Dormition Fast is two weeks and one of the strictest fasts in the Orthodox Church.
On Friday, July 31, 2015, after lunch, a new cemetery area was consecrated. Due to the fact that almost all of the available plots in the older monastery cemeteries have been purchased, a new section has been prepared along side the oldest cemetery. For the Orthodox faithful, this need for more plots has been emphasized especially of late, as recently there have been more and more requests for cemetery plots. This is due no doubt to the fact that the souls of those buried in the Holy Trinity Monastery cemetery are prayed for during the Divine Liturgy and also during the several special commemorative days during the church year.
Feast of St. Sergius, the Hawaiian Iveron Myrrh-streaming Icon and the visit of Metr. Onuphry. - 07/18/15
Holy Trinity Monastery is blessed with many joyful feasts throughout the liturgical year and also the occasional special event. Such an occasion was recently on Friday evening and Saturday morning, when according to the Church calendar, the feast of St. Sergius of Radonezh was celebrated. It is doubtful that this feast was ever celebrated with such solemnity and joy as this year. During the afternoon services the Hawaiian Iveron Myrrh-streaming icon arrived, brought by its guardian, Brother Nectarios. Later in the afternoon, his Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, arrived to greet a very important guest, his Beatitude, Metropolitan Onuphry of Kiev and All Ukraine, who finds himself in the United States on a private visit.
On July 17, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of the Royal Martyrs of Russia.
Troparion: Meekly didst thou endure bonds and diverse sufferings, and the loss of an earthly kingdom, and didst bear witness for Christ even unto death at the hands of those that fight against God, O great passion-bearer, divinely-crowned Tsar Nicholas; therefore, Christ God hath crowned thee in the heavens with a martyr’s crown, together with thy queen, thy children, and thy servants. Him do thou entreat to have mercy on the Russian land and save our souls.
New York: ROCOR Statement on Same-Sex "Marriage" - 07/13/15
When our Lord and God and Saviour Jesus Christ instructed His Apostles to render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s (Matthew 22:21), He foretold of the future what was already true in the days in the Roman Empire: that a Christian would never be one who sat dismissively apart from the world and its governance, but neither would a Christian be one for whom the ever-changing whims of social governance would be the chief voice ruling his life...
Abbot Archmandrite Luke (Murianka) Sermon for the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul (Russian And English) - 07/13/15
“Their sound has gone forth into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.”
Our Church is Apostolic because it follows the life and teaching established by the Apostles. They in their turn continue the mission of our Teacher and Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ. The rule of faith given to us by our Saviour and his Disciples must be kept without change as He says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away (Matthew 24:35).”
2015 Summer Youth Program at Holy Trinity Monastery - 07/13/15
On July 11, the 2015 Summer Youth Program came to a close at Holy Trinity Monastery. The program incorporates both monastery life and features of a summer camp. Young men have the opportunity to attend monastic services, work beside members of the brotherhood, and participate in candid religious discussions. The program also features sports and recreational activities, including special events such as day trips to local points of interest.
2013 Assembly of Bishops Statement on Marriage and Sexuality - 06/27/15
2013 Assembly Statement on Marriage and Sexuality
From the Assembly of Bishops
To our Orthodox Faithful
1. We, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America, representing millions of Orthodox Christians in the United States of America, Canada and Central America, express our deep concern over recent actions on the part of our respective governments and certain societal trends concerning the status of marriage in our countries, in particular the legalization of same-sex unions.
2. The Orthodox Christian teaching on marriage and sexuality, firmly grounded in Holy Scripture, two millennia of Church Tradition, and Canon Law, holds that the sacrament of marriage consists in the union of a man and a woman, and that authentic marriage reflects the sacred unity that exists between Christ and His Bride, the Church.
3. Persons with homosexual orientation are to be cared for with the same mercy and love that is bestowed on all of humanity by our Lord Jesus Christ. Moreover, the Church is a spiritual hospital, where we all are called to find the healing of our fallen humanity through Jesus Christ, who assumed human nature in order to restore it. All of us struggle with various passions, and it is only within the Church that we find the means of overcoming these passions with the assistance of God’s grace. Acting upon any sexual attraction outside of sacramental marriage, whether the attraction is heterosexual or homosexual, alienates us from God.
4. We exhort the clergy and faithful of the Orthodox Church to bear witness to the timeless teachings of Christ by striving for purity and holiness in their own lives, by instructing their families and communities in the precepts of the Holy Gospel, and by placing their trust in our Lord, who “has overcome the world.” (John 16.33)
5. Finally, we encourage our faithful to approach their parish priest or spiritual father with any questions or concerns about this statement and its practical repercussions in their daily lives.
Statement by the Chancery of the Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America on the Issue of Homosexual Marriage to the Clergy and Flock of the Diocese - 06/27/15
June 26, 2015
Today the United States Supreme Court ruled that homosexual marriage is a constitutional right in the United States of America. Given the ubiquitous coverage the news media is providing on this issue it is important that our clergymen and parishioners fully understand the position of the Church in this regard.
Price Changes for Jordanville Candles: Due to an increase in beeswax prices, beginning August 1, 2015, the new price of candles for churches will be $10 a pound and $16 for a set of five Bishop Candles.
"On Monday, June 8, Matushka Nadezhda Drobot, wife of Archpriest Wsewolod Drobot (former rector of Nativity of the Mother of God Church in Albany, NY) and mother of Protodeacon Nicholas Drobot (cleric of Holy New Martyrs of Russia Church in Norwich, CT), reposed in the Lord.
Matushka Nadezhda is survived by her husband, seven children, and eight grandchildren.
"On Monday, June 8, Matushka Nadezhda Drobot, wife of Archpriest Wsewolod Drobot (former rector of Nativity of the Mother of God Church in Albany, NY) and mother of Protodeacon Nicholas Drobot (cleric of Holy New Martyrs of Russia Church in Norwich, CT), reposed in the Lord.
For the Third Day of Pentecost, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan celebrated the Hierarchical Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. Today is the last day of celebrations for the monastery’s patronal feast day.
On June 1, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated Holy Spirit Day its patronal feast day. Metropolitan Hilarion, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, and Metropolitan Jonah concelebrated the Liturgy for the feast day. Co-serving along with the two hierarchs were 16 priests and 9 deacons.
Pentecost 2015 at Holy Trinity Monastery - 05/31/15
On May 31, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of Pentecost. His Eminence, Metropolitan Jonah (OCA) celebrated the Hierarchical Vigil and Liturgy. Following Liturgy, the Metropolitan served the Vespers service with the three prayers on bended knees. After the Vespers service, Abbot Archimandrite Luke congratulated everyone with the feast and invited them to a festive meal followed by a reception. We wish everyone a blessed Pentecost!
67th Commencement Ceremonies at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary - 05/24/15
On May 24, 2015 Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary had its 67th Commencement and marked the end of the 2014-15 academic year and the conclusion to the years of seminary studies for the Graduating Class of 2015. Metropolitan Jonah (OCA) presided at the hierarchical vigil and liturgy.
Translation of St. Nicholas's Relics and the 50th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Anastasy - 05/22/15
On May 22, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of the Translation of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker's relics to Bari, Italy. Following the Divine Liturgy, Abbot Fr. Luke served a Panikhida at Metropolitan Anastasy’s grave located in the back of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Metropolitan Anastasy was the second First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. He reposed 50 years ago on May 22, 1965.
"Thou hast ascended in glory, O Christ our God, and gladdened Thy disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit; and they were assured by the blessing that Thou art the Son of God and Redeemer of the world."
On May 6, 2015, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated Mid-Pentecost and St. George Day. Following Divine Liturgy, Abbot Fr. Luke led the service of the Small Blessing of the Water at the Holy Trinity Monastery well. Holy Great Martyr George pray to God for us!
On Radonitsa, led by Abbot Fr. Luke Murianka the monastic brethern, seminarians and members of the community prayed for the departed including those buried in the Holy Trinity Monastery Cemetery.
"When Thou hadst fallen asleep in the flesh as one mortal, O King and Lord, Thou didst rise again on the third day, raising up Adam from corruption, and abolishing death: O Pascha of incorruption! O Salvation of the world!"
2 am Holy Saturday Matins (Lamentations) service - 04/11/15
Joseph begged Thy holy body from Pilate and, anointing it with sweet-smelling spices, he wrapped it in clean linen and laid it in a new tomb; and early in the morning the women bearing myrrh cried out: 'As Thou hast foretold, O Christ, show us the Resurrection.'"
"He who closed the abyss lies before us dead; and as a corpse the Immortal is wrapped in linen with sweet spices and laid in a tomb. The women came to anoint Him with myrrh, weeping bitterly and crying: 'This is the most blessed Sabbath on which Christ sleeps, but on the third day He shall rise again.'"
"The whole creation was changed by fear, when it saw Thee, O Christ , hanging on the Cross. The sun was darkened and the foundations of the earth were shaken; all things suffered with the Creator of all. Of Thine own will Thou hast endured this for our sake: O Lord, glory to Thee."
"Today is the fountainhead of our salvation and the manifestation of the mystery which was from eternity: the Son of God becometh the Virgin's Son, and Gabriel announceth the good tidings of grace; for this cause, let us cry to the Mother of God with him: "Rejoice, thou who art full of grace; the Lord is with thee."
"By raising Lazarus from the dead before Your passion, You did confirm the universal Resurrection, O Christ God! Like the children with the palms of victory,We cry out to You, O Vanquisher of death;Hosanna in the Highest! Blessed is He that comes in the Name of the Lord!"
Presantified Liturgy in English at Dormition Church (Video and Photos) - 04/01/15
On April 1, Abbot Archimandrite Luke served a Presanctified Liturgy in English in the Dormition Church in the cemetery. The English translation of the Liturgy is from Colonel Philip Ludwell III (1716-1767).
On March 16, the Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery and the brotherhood served a Pannikida for Metropolitan Laurus who was the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Outside of Russia and Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery.
April 1: Presanctifed Liturgy in English at 5:30pm - 03/11/15
On April 1, Fr Luke will serve a Presanctified Liturgy in English in the Dormition Church in the cemetery at 5:30pm. The English translation of the Liturgy is from Colonel Philip Ludwell III (1716-1767).
Here is a short write-up on Colonol Ludwell III from Eadiocese.org:
"Just over 250 years ago, Colonel Philip Ludwell III (1716-1767) made the first complete English translation of theDivine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. He was a Virginian plantation owner, who in 1738 travelled to England to be received into Holy Orthodoxy at the parish in London under the authority of the Holy Governing Synod of the Russian Church. His translation of The Divine & Holy Liturgy of St. Gregory the Dialogist as it is Performed without a Deaconwas most probably made in the summer of 1761, when he had again travelled to London with his three daughters. They were received into the Church there before the Presanctified Liturgy of Holy Wednesday, 1762.
Colonel Ludwell’s translation has recently been transcribed from the original handwritten text by Reader Nicholas Chapman and prepared for use with a deacon by Reader Peter Gardner. It has also been updated to conform to contemporary usage, and a short historical introduction added. This edition was published at the end of February by St. Polycarp Press, Alexandria, VA and can be purchased here."
On Wednesday, March 11, the community of the Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary celebrated the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of St James, the Brother of the Lord. The liturgy was served at 11am in the church of St Job of Pochaev in the basement of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and was presided by Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), the Abbot of the monastery.
March 11: Presanctified Liturgy of St. James - 03/03/15
On March 11, Holy Trinity Monastery will serve the Presanctified Liturgy of St. James at 11am in the church of St Job of Pochaev in the basement of the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
For The Triumph of Orthodoxy, Bishop Jerome served the Hierarchical Vigil and Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. The Rite of Orthodoxy service followed Sunday's Liturgy.
"Where shall I begin to weep for the actions of my wretched life? What first-fruit shall I offer, O Christ, in this my lamentation? But in Thy compassion grant me forgiveness of sins." --The Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Archbishop Gabriel, a graduate of Holy Trinity Seminary, served the Hierarchical Vigil and Liturgy for the Feast of the Three Hierarchs. This is the patronal feast day for the seminary. After Liturgy, students, faculty, and alumni celebrated the feast with a reception in the Seminary Hall.
"When Thou, O Lord, wast baptized in the Jordan, worship of the Trinity wast made manifest; for the voice of the Father bore witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the truth of His word. O Christ our God, Who hath appeared and enlightened the world, glory to Thee."
"Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shined the light of reason upon the world; for thereby they that worshipped the stars were instructed by a star to worship Thee, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know Thee, the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory be to Thee."
Fr. Luke Speaks at St Hermans Youth Conference - 12/28/14
Rector Archimandrite Luke delivered the keynote speech at this year’s St. Herman’s Youth Conference in Toronto. Fr. Luke spoke about the sanctification of the material world and about the recent reburial of Bishop Constantine (Essensky). Fr. Luke also participated in the question and answer panel discussion.
Fr. Luke Speaks at St Hermans Youth Conference - 12/28/14
Archimandrite Luke delivered the keynote speech at this year’s St. Herman’s Youth Conference in Toronto. Fr. Luke spoke about the sanctification of the material world, the incorruptibility of relics, the glorification of saints and the recent reburial of Bishop Constantine (Essensky). Fr. Luke also participated in the question and answer panel discussion.
Feast of St. Nicholas and 40th anniversary of Fr Victor to diaconate - 12/19/14
On December 19, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated St. Nicholas Day. This was also the 40th anniversary of Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow’s ordination to the diaconate. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, Deacon Andrei Psarev read a congratulatory letter from Metropolitan Hilarion to Fr. Victor. Archimandrite Luke then presented a copy of the Vladimir icon of the Mother of God to Fr. Victor on behalf of Holy Trinity Monastery, Holy Trinity Seminary and St. Elizabeth Skete.
Visit from Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada and Ordination of Fr Andrei Myer - 12/14/14
On December 14, 2014, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada celebrated the Hierarchical Vigil and Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. Fr. Andrei Myer was ordained to the Priesthood during the Hierarchical Liturgy by Archbishop Gabriel.
Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple - 12/04/14
On December 4, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple. Abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) led the Vigil and Liturgy services.
Reburial of Bishop Constantine (Essensky) at Holy Trinity Monastery - 12/01/14
On December 1 2014, Metropolitan Hilarion and many clergy came to Holy Trinity Monastery today to rebury Bishop Constantine (Essensky; +1996) behind the Cathedral. Metropolitan Hilarion served a panikhída before the reburial service. Bishop Constantine reposed 18 years ago and was originally buried in Blanco, Texas.
St James Liturgy Served At Holy Trinity Monastery - 11/26/14
On Wednesday, November 5, Holy Trinity Monastery marked the feast of St James the Brother of the Lord and the first bishop of Jerusalem with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy attributed to the apostle at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. On Friday, November 14, on the feast of Sts. Cosmas and Damian, the abbot of the Monastery, Archimandrite Luke, celebrated the Liturgy of St James in English at the Dormition cemetery church.
On Saturday November 22, Hieromonk Theophylact will serve a pannykhida for the World War I Gallipoli victims. The service will be at 12:30 pm at the Dormition Cemetery Chapel.
December 1: Metropolitan Hilarion to rebury Bishop Constantine (Essensky) of Richmond at Holy Trinity Monastery - 11/20/14
With the blessing of His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, the brethren of Holy Trinity Monastery have transported the remains of the ever-memorable Bishop Constantine (Essensky; +1996) from a former monastery in Blanco, TX to Jordanville, NY. On Monday, December 1st, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad will rebury Bishop Constantine in a dignified resting place behind the main cathedral, where many other archpastors of the Russian Diaspora are interred.
Approximately $10,000 is needed to cover the costs associated with Bishop Constantine’s relocation. Therefore, with the blessing of Metropolitan Hilarion, the brethren of Holy Trinity Monastery appeal to all those who love God, to all who hold dear the memory of Bishop Constantine, who served the Russian Church on three continents – Europe, America, and Australia – to please help in this God-pleasing endeavor.
Visitors must contact the monastery before visiting unless their intention is to visit for a few hours and then leave. All groups must make prior arrangements regardless of their duration of stay.
Feast Day of St. Averky and Kazan Icon of the Mother of God - 11/04/14
On November 4, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God and St. Averky of Hierapolis, Equal-to-the-Apostles. Following the Liturgy, Archimandrite Luke served a Litia at the grave of Archbishop Averky who was the Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery from 1960 until his repose in 1976. Archbishop Averky was also the Rector of Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary.
Fr John Campbell (known previously as Fr Lawrence Cambell ) reposed peacefully in the Lord just before midnight on Monday November 3, 2014. He spent much of his life preparing English-language texts of the Divine Services and private prayers, most notably the 4th edition of our Jordanville Prayer Book and the Unabbreviated Horologion. Fr. John's funeral was held on November 6, 2014.
Fr John Campbell (known previously as Fr Lawrence Cambell ) reposed peacefully in the Lord just before midnight on November 3, 2014. He spent much of his life preparing English-language texts of the Divine Services and private prayers, most notably the 4th edition of our Jordanville Prayer Book and the Unabbreviated Horologion. May the Lord grant rest to his soul.
Washington DC Cathedral Annual Pilgrimage to Holy Trinity Monastery - 10/26/14
From October 25 - 26, 2014, Archpriest Victor Potapov and about 100 parisioners from St. John the Baptist Cathedral made their annual pilgrimage to Holy Trinity Monastery to visit the grave of Jose Muñoz-Cortes who is buried in the Holy Trinity Monastery cemetery. Joining the pilgrims for their annual pilgrimage were Metropolitan Hilarion, Metropolitan Jonah (OCA), and the myrrh-streaming "Hawaiian" Iveron Icon of the Mother of God.
On October 25, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery opened its doors to host an open house event for the general public. Beginning at 1 pm, Fr. Luke spoke to the visitors about the the history of the Orthodox Church. At 2 pm, Heirodeacon Seraphim spoke about the history of Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary. Following the talks, visitors were encouraged to visit the new museum, enjoy refreshments and visit the bookstore. Heiromonk Theophylact conducted tours of Holy Trinity Cathedral.
On Tuesday October 14, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Protection of the Mother of God. Archimandrite Luke Murianka served the Vigil and Liturgy for the Feast.
St Sergius of Radonezh Conference at Holy Trinity Seminary - 10/10/14
At the St. Sergius Conference hosted at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary, students and professors delivered papers on St Sergius. Most Reverend Bishop Jerome (Shaw) presented his reminiscences (in both Russian and English) regarding the chapel dedicated to St Sergius in Churaevka village near Southbury, CT. The keynote address was by the Very Reverend Archpriest Pavel Velikanov (Moscow Theological Academy) entitled “The Experience of Entering the Life of the Church for a Modern Orthodox Christian.”
On October 8, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast day of St. Sergius of Radonezh. The Feast Day is the official beginning of the St. Sergius Conference hosted at Holy Trinity Seminary.
Exaltation of the Cross - Photo and Video Report - 09/27/14
Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada served the Hierarchical Vigil for the the Exaltation of the Cross. After the Great Doxology, the Cross was brought out and Archbishop Gabriel led the service of the Exaltation of the Cross. On Saturday morning, Archbishop Gabriel led the Hierarchichal Liturgy for the Feast Day.
October 25 - 26: The Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God to visit Monastery - 09/23/14
From October 25 - 26, The Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will visit Holy Trinity Monastery for the Open House event and the St. John the Baptist Parishes annual pilgrimage to Jordanville.
For the Nativity of the Theotokos, Archimandrite Luke served the Vigil and Liturgy services at Holy Trinity Monastery. Fr. Ephraim Wilmarth who is a graduate of Holy Trinity Seminary and also the current administrative assistant gave the sermon.
Three Liturgies served to celebrate The Beheading of John the Baptist - 09/11/14
Three Liturgies were served at Holy Trinity Monastery to celebrate The Beheading of John the Baptist. Archimandrite Luke served an English Liturgy in the Dormition church in the cemetery, Hieromonk Theophylact served the Slavonic Liturgy in Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Archpriest Vladimir Von Tsurikov served a Liturgy at St. Elizabeth Skete.
On September 10, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast day of St. Job of Pochaev. St. Job is the patron saint of Holy Trinity Bookstore, Holy Trinity Publications, and the monastic brotherhood. The monastery held a liturgy in the lower church dedicated to St. Job of Pochaev. Following the liturgy, a cross procession and moleben were held to St. Job.
November 1 - St John of Kronstadt Utica, New York Parish Feast Day - 09/07/14
Announcement from St John of Kronstadt Parish in Utica, New York:
Saturday 1st November 2014 marks two very special anniversaries in our parish: the 60th Anniversary of our St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Fund (1954-2014) and the 50th Anniversary of the Glorification of our St. John of Kronstadt (1964-2014). Our parish will be marking these special events with liturgical celebrations and an anniversary banquet. His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion will lead the celebrations that day in concelebration with Their Graces, Bishop Peter of Cleveland and Bishop Nicholas of Manhatten, and with local and visiting clergy.
The schedule of events will be the following:
Friday 31st October 2014: Pannykhida for the reposed founders and active members of our Memrial Fund at 5:30 pm, followed by Vigil at 6:00pm;
Saturday 1st November 2014: Meeting of the Metropolitan, Divine Liturgy and Molieben with the Procession of the Cross at 9:15 am, followed by a Festive Banquet at the Aqua Vino Restaurant, 16 Harbor Lock Road (off Genesee St. in Utica), Utica, NY 13502.
The cost for Banquet tickets is $32.00 per adult, $16.00 for between ages 5 to 10, and children aged 4 and under are free of charge. Please make all reservations by October 24th, 2014, and make checks payable to ST. JOHN OF KRONSTADT R.O. MEMORIAL CHURCH, which may be mailed to St. John of Kronstadt Memorial Church, 1009 Conkling Avenue, Utica, NY 13507-0056.
Clerical vestments will be in gold. Please join us for these celebrations in our parish.
His Grace, Bishop Nicholas led the Hierarchical Vigil and Liturgy during Labor Day Weekend at Holy Trinity Monastery. Following the Hierarchical Liturgy, a moleben was served to the Mother of God and a small litia for the names day of Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Flor.
Following the service, trapeza was served for all of the visiting pilgrims.
Meeting of the "Pochaev" Icon of the Mother of God with moleben and akathist hymn to St. Job of Pochaev. - 08/30/14
At 3 p.m. a cross procession was conducted to the cemetery chapel to bring the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God to the Holy Trinity Cathedral. His Grace Bishop Nicholas met the cross procession at the cathedral and led a moleben and akathist to St. Job of Pochaev.
Holy Trinity Publications released a new translation of spiritual talks delivered by the ever-memorable Archbishop Averky - 08/29/14
On September 1st, 2014 Holy Trinity Publications released a new translation of spiritual talks delivered by the ever-memorable Archbishop Averky of Syracuse and Holy Trinity Monastery. The Struggle for Virtue: Asceticism in a Modern Secular Society goes straight to the roots of our modern alienation from God and each other. We are shown that through the renewal of Gospel love the conscience is reawakened. We can then begin to experience true freedom, founded on the acquisition of virtue and overcoming of vice. All of this is seen to demand effort: A Struggle for Virtue.
For the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, two Divine Liturgies were held at Holy Trinity Monastery. Bishop Nicholas led the Hierarchical Liturgy in the Holy Trinity Cathedral with the Kursk Root Icon and Hieromonk Cyprian celebrated an English Liturgy in the cemetery chapel which is dedicated to the Feast. Following the Hierarchical Liturgy, a moleben was served at the cemetery chapel to the Mother of God.
Tonsures into the Small Schema at Holy Trinity Monastery - 08/25/14
On Monday August 25, 2014 the tonsures into the small schema was perfomed by Archimandrite Luke at Holy Trinity Monastery after the service of Compline. Novice Vitaly Ahmolin was given the name of Righteous Lazarus and Br. Andrei Kozhin was given the name of Hieromartyr Sylvester, Archbishop of Omsk.
The Kursk icon will arrive at Holy Trinity Monastery with Bishop Nicholas of Manhattanon on Wednesday August 27 and will be here until Monday Septemeber 1 2014.
Transfiguration at Holy Trinity Monastery - 08/19/14
On August 19, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration. Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) served the Vigil and Liturgy for the Feast.
Holy Trinity Monastery is now offering new fibreglass cemetery crosses. They do not require replacement, painting or repair like wood crosses, which typically last 8 to 10 years.
Feast of St. Vladimir Equal-to-the-Apostles - 07/28/14
On Monday July 28, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the feast of St. Vladimir. Archimandrite Luke lead the Vigil with Archpriest Vladimir (Tsurikov) and celebrated the Liturgy with newly ordained Fr. Ephraim Willmarth and Hieromonk Moses.
Kursk Icon and Bishop Nicholas (Olhovsky) will be at Monastery from 8/28 - 9/1 - 07/23/14
The Kursk-Root Icon will be present and the Right Reverend Bishop Nicholas (Olhovsky) will be serving at the Monastery for the Feast of the Dormition through Labor Day weekend.
Fr. Ephraim Willmarth Ordained to the Priesthood - 07/17/14
On July 17, 2014, Fr. Ephraim Willmarth was ordained to the Priesthood by His Eminence Gabriel, Archbishop of Montreal & Canada. Fr. Ephraim is a graduate of Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary and currently is the Administrative Assistant at the Seminary.
Holy Trinity Publications Releases New Memoir - 07/13/14
Jordanville, NY - On July 1st, 2014 the publishing house of Holy Trinity Monastery released its latest title. Recollections of Jerusalem (ISBN: 9780884653592) offers the personal memoirs of Anya Berezina Derrick, parishioner and former head sister of St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Seattle, WA.
Summer Youth Program at Holy Trinity Monastery - 07/03/14
The Summer Youth Program is in its second week at Holy Trinity Monastery. This year fifteen young men enrolled in the program. Many clergy of the Russian Church drew closer to God with their experience as Summer Boys in Jordanville. Many others have formed pious families with the good influence they received at the Summer Youth Program.
Second Phase of Replacement of Oil Tanks - 06/21/14
Work has begun on the second phase of replacing the remainder of the Monastery and Seminary oil tanks under the requirement by the Department of Enviromental Services. This project is very costly. The total cost to complete the work is $212, 000.00. We ask for your continued support to help us cover this expense.
Holy Spirit Day at Holy Trinity Monastery - 06/09/14
On Holy Spirit Day, Metropolitan Hilarion, Metropolitan Jonah, 13 Priests and 8 Deacons celebrated the Hierarchical Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. Both Hiermonk Gabriel and Anatoli received awards for their service to the Church. A molebon and procession to the Holy Trinity followed the Liturgy.
June 8 was Pentecost and Holy Trinity Monastery's patronal Feast Day. Metropolitan Jonah served the Hierarchichal Vigil and Liturgy to celebrate the Feast. Immediately after Liturgy, Metropolitan Jonah led the Vespers with the Three Prayers on Bended Knees. Following Vespers, everyone joined the brethern for a meal and reception on the Monastery lawns.
Ascension at Holy Trinity Monastery (Photo Report) - 05/29/14
"Having accomplished for us Thy mission and united things on earth with things in heaven, Thou didst ascend into glory, O Christ our God, being nowhere separated from those who love Thee, but remaining ever present with us and calling: I am with you and no one is against you."
Graduation at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary - 05/26/14
On May 25, 2014, the Sixty-Sixth Annual Commencement was celebrated at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary. His Grace Bishop George of Mayfield served a Hierarchal Vigil and Liturgy and offered opening remarks at the Seminary's Commencement. The Commencement Speaker was Archpriest Serge Kotar. On the Commencement Day, the Foundation of Russian History Museum also officially opened to the public. At the end of the Liturgy, Archpriest Vladimir Tsurikov was given a gramota from Metropolitan Hilarion for his labors in establishing a new museum at the Holy Trinity Monastery.
Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas - 05/22/14
On May 22, 2014, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas. An All-Night Vigil and Liturgy was served by Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) for the Feast. Following the Liturgy, the faithful held a procession to Metropolitan Anastasy's crypt to offer prayers on his death day.
Foundation of Russian History Museum Preview Event - 05/19/14
On May 18, 2014, the Foundation of Russian History hosted a rededication of the Foundation, and a preview of a new exhibit entitled "The Russian Word and Image: Four centuries of books and art." At the event, the Foundation also unveiled the new Russian Nobility Association Reading Room. The museum and reading room are located at Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary in Jordanville, New York.
Metropolitan Jonah Visit for Museum Preview - 05/19/14
From May 17-18, Metropolitan Jonah lead a Hierarchal Vigil and Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery. Metropolitan Jonah visited the Monastery to take part in a preview of The Foundation for Russian History Museum. The museum official opens to the public on May 25 on Holy Trinity Seminary's graduation day.
The Foundation of Russian History Museum Now Open - 05/17/14
The Foundation of Russian History Museum at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary is now officially open to the public. Normal museum hours are Wednesday through Friday 2-5 pm and Saturday and Sunday 1-4 pm and by advance appointment.
Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, Delivers Lecture on St. Alexis (Toth) - 05/06/14
"On May 6, 2014 Archimandrite Luke delivered a lecture at St. Mary's Cathedral (OCA) in Minneapolis, MN. The talk was part of an annual Saint Alexis (Toth) lecture series sponsored by the St. Mary's Boriss-Hansen Committee. St. Alexis is one of the great missionary confessors of the Orthodox Church and was lauded as such in Father Luke's talk."
Seminary Lecture by Dr. Christopher Veniamin "On Becoming Theologians" - 04/29/14
Born and raised in London, England of Greek Cypriot parents, Professor Veniamin is the editor and translator of Saint Gregory Palamas: The Homilies (2009 and 2014), and the author of The Orthodox Understanding of Salvation: “Theosis” in Scripture and Tradition (2013, 2014). He is a spiritual child of Elder Sophrony of Essex, Professor of Patristics at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania, and President of Mount Thabor Publishing (est. 2005). Dr. Veniamin holds his first degree in Theology from the University of Thessalonica (Greece) and his doctorate from Oxford University (England), where he studied under Metropolitan Kallistos Ware. The subject of his doctoral thesis is The Transfiguration of Christ in Greek Patristic Literature: From Irenaeus of Lyons to Gregory Palamas (1991), which he is reworking in preparation for publication in 2015. The lecture is titled "On becoming Theologians."
The lecture will be held on Thursday, May 1 at 5 p.m. in the Holy Trinity Seminary Hall.
On Radonitsa, led by Abbot Fr. Luke Murianka the monastic brethern, seminarians and members of the community prayed for the departed including those buried in the Holy Trinity Monastery Cemetery.
Having slept in the flesh as a mortal, O King and Lord, Thou didst rise on the third day. Thou didst raise up Adam from corruption and abolish death, O Passover of incorruption, Salvation of the world!
It is the day of Resurrection; let us be radiant, o ye peoples; Pascha, the Lord's Pascha; for Christ God hath brought us from death to life, and from earth to Heaven, as we sing the triumphal hymn.
Holy Saturday 2 am Lamentations Matins and Vesperal Liturgy - 04/19/14
He who closed the abyss lies before us dead; and as a corpse the Immortal is wrapped in linen with sweet spices and laid in a tomb. The women came to anoint Him with myrrh, weeping bitterly and crying: "This is the most blessed Sabbath on which Christ sleeps, but on the third day He shall rise again."
Unction Service at Holy Trinity Monastery - 04/15/14
On April 15, 2014, an Unction Service was served at Holy Trinity Monastery. Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka) led the service with six other priests to administer the Sacrament to the faithful.
"O Christ God, enthroned in Heaven and on earth riding a donkey's colt, You have accepted the praise of the angels and the hymns of the children who were crying out to You: "Blessed are You who come to restore Adam."
On Friday, April 11, on the last day of Great Lent, the community of the Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary celebrated the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of St James, the Brother of the Lord. The liturgy was served at 11am in the church of St Job of Pochaev in the basement of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and was presided by Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), the Abbot of the monastery.
Today is the beginning of our salvation, The revelation of the eternal mystery! The Son of God becomes the Son of the Virgin As Gabriel announces the coming of Grace. Together with him let us cry to the Theotokos: Rejoice, O Full of Grace, The Lord is with You!
Icon of the Mother of God "Softener of Evil Hearts" to Visit Holy Trinity Monastery from April 16 - 20 - 04/05/14
Visitation Schedule of the Icon of the Mother of God "Softener of Evil Hearts" in the Eastern American Diocese
With the blessing of His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, from March 21 to April 2, the myrrh-bearing Icon of the Mother of God "Softener of Evil Hearts" will visit the Eastern American Diocese. Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY will be sponsoring the Icon’s visit to the United States. The Icon will visit Holy Trinity Monastery from Wednesday, April 16 to Sunday, April 20.
Priest Nicholas Olhovsky Tonsured a Monk - 04/05/14
On Friday, April 4, 2014, following a matins service and akathist to the Mother of God, Priest Nicholas Olhovsky was tonsured a Monk by Abbot Fr. Luke (Murianka). Fr. Nicholas has been elected to be the next Bishop of Manhattan. Fr. Luke also tonsured Novice John to Rassophore Monk.
Great Canon of St. Andrew and Life of St Mary of Egypt - 04/02/14
On Wednesday April 2, 2014, during matins Holy Trinity Monastery read the entire Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete as well as the life of St. Mary of Egypt.
Canadian Diocese Lenten Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/26/14
From March 24 -26, 2014, the clergy of the Canadian Diocese held their Lenten retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery. On Wednesday, clergy met in the Holy Trinity Seminary Hall with discussions lead by His Eminence Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada. Following supper, clergy and seminarians attended Great Compline together.
On Thursday morning, clergy attended all the Lenten services including a Hierarchal Presanctified Liturgy.
New Holy Trinity Monastery Bookstore Website - 03/23/14
We are very pleased to announce the launch of the new Holy Trinity Monastery Bookstore website, which can be found here. This website marks a big jump forward in terms of ease of use for customers, improved cover images, and the ability to have Russian text. Like anything in life, this website is a work in progress, and we will be improving and adding more titles all the time. Thank you for supporting Holy Trinity Monastery through its bookstore!
Sunday of the Veneration of the Cross - Photo Report - 03/23/14
Kontakion - "Now the flaming sword no longer guards the gates of Eden; / it has mysteriously been quenched by the wood of the Cross! / The sting of death and the victory of hell have been vanquished; / for You, O my Savior, have come and cried to those in hell: / "'Enter again into paradise.'"
New Holy Trinity Monastery Bookstore Website - 03/22/14
We are very pleased to announce the launch of the new Holy Trinity Monastery Bookstore website, which can be found here. This website marks a big jump forward in terms of ease of use for customers, improved cover images, and the ability to have Russian text. Like anything in life, this website is a work in progress, and we will be improving and adding more titles all the time. Thank you for supporting Holy Trinity Monastery through its bookstore!
Northern Lenten Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/14/14
From March 12 -14, the Northern Lenten Retreat for the Eastern American Diocese was hosted at Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary. On March 13, Metropolitan Hilarion opened the retreat by speaking about the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Eastern American Diocese. In the afternoon, a round-table discussion was held for clergy and seminarians. On March 14, a Hierarchal Presanctified Liturgy was celebrated by Metropolitan Hilarion and Bishop George.
On Sunday March 9 2014 His Grace Bishop Jerome served at Holy Trinity Monastery for the feast of the Sunday of Orthodoxy. At the end of the liturgy the service of the Triumph of Orthodoxy was solemnly served.
First Week of Great Lent - Photo and Video Report - 03/05/14
My soul, my soul, arise! Why are you sleeping? The end is drawing near, and you will be confounded. Awake, then, and be watchful, that Christ our God may spare you, Who is everywhere present and fills all things.
Holy Trinity Monastery Hosts PaTRAM Master Class - 02/27/14
From Monday, February 24 to Thursday, February 28, a group of church singers and directors gathered in Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary to rehearse and study with Maestro Vladimir Gorbik, choirmaster of the Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra Dependency in Moscow.
Holy Trinity Monastery Celebrates The Feast of the Three Hierarchs - 02/12/14
On Wednesday, February 12, 2014, Three hierarchs of the Orthodox Church concelebrated on this feast at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Jordanville, NY: His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of East America and New York, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, His Eminence Metropolitan Jonah, the retired Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, and His Eminence Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada.
Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee and Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia - 02/09/14
Today we commemorate the uncounted millions of faithful who suffered and died at the hands of the Soviet atheists. These include the Tsar-martyr Nicholas II and the rest of the Russian Royal Family (July 4); Patriarch Tikhon (March 24); Grand Duchess Elizabeth (July 5); thousands of martyrs, both clergy and laity, whose names are known; but also millions upon millions of simple believers whose names have been lost to history.
When in the Jordan Thou wast baptised, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was made manifest. For the voice of the Father bare witness unto Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son, and the Spirit, in the form of a Dove, confirmed the steadfastness of that word. O Christ our God, who didst manifest Thyself and dost enlighten the world: glory to Thee.
Lenten Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery for Clergy of the Eastern American Diocese March 12 - 14 2014 - 01/13/14
The Clergy Lenten Retreat will be held at Holy Trinity Monastery from March 12 - 14. The retreat will be bilingual and include the seminarians. Wednesday the 12th is a travel day. The Conference begins on Thursday and will end following the Presanctified Liturgy on Friday.
New Internet Fiber Optic Cable Delivered for Holy Trinity Monastery and Seminary - 01/13/14
On December 30 2013 Verizon delivered into the monastery Fiber Optic cable which will serve for the expanding needs of the Publications Office and Bookstore, Seminary and new Phone System...
Delivery of Insulation for Roof of Monastic Dormitory - 01/13/14
On December 23 2013 we received a delivery of insulation for the roof of the monastic dormitory. Unfortunately the whole building is not insulated and much heat is being lost due to this. We are now in the beginning stages of insulating parts of the building to bring sown the cost of heating.
New Boiler and Pumps for West Side of Monastic Dormitory - 01/13/14
The old boiler for heating was replaced in the west side of the monastic dormitory along with all the pumps in December of 2013. This project cost $12,000.
West side of Monastic Dorm Building Plumbing Work - 01/10/14
A lot of the plumbing work for the new building on the west side of the monastic dormitory has been completed. Initially water softeners were installed a few months ago and now many of the pipes that were partially clogged with various deposits were replaced.
Fire at the Apiary of Holy Trinity Monastery - 01/09/14
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 around 2:00 PM the building in the apiary used for extracting honey burnt down along with some adjoining sheds. The equipment used in extracting honey was damaged beyond repair....
Nativity at Holy Trinity Monastery 2014 - 01/07/14
His Grace Bishop George of Mayfield celebrated Christ's Nativity at Holy Trinity Monastery this year. On Monday January 6 2014 the Royal Hours begun at 8am and at 9:45am the liturgy of Saint Basil the Great was served with Vespers. On January 7 the liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom was served at 9am followed by a festal meal in the Monastery refectory and a reception for all pilgrims at Archimandrite Luke's office.
Kursk Root Icon Visit to Holy Trinity Monastery December 28 - January 3 2013 - 01/02/14
Holy Trinity Monastery had the great blessing to have the Kursk Root Icon present from December 28 to January 3, 2013. On Monday December 30 2013 a moleben and Akathist was served in Slavonic after compline and on the following day a moleben and Akathist was served before the icon in English...
Feast of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker 2013 - 12/19/13
This glorious saint, celebrated even today throughout the entire world, was the only son of his eminent and wealthy parents, Theophanes and Nona, citizens of the city of Patara in Lycia. Since he was the only son bestowed on them by God, the parents returned the gift to God by dedicating their son to Him...
Feast of the Kursk Root Icon and 400th Anniversary of the Romanov House - 12/10/13
On Tuesday, December 10, the Holy Trinity Monastery and the Seminary celebrated the Feast of the Kursk-Root Icon of the Mother of God, the “Hodegetria” of the Russian diaspora and the protectress of the Russian Church Abroad. But for the monastic and seminary community this year, this feast was also chosen as an occasion to mark the conclusion to the year-long commemoration of the 400th anniversary since the accession of the Russian Imperial dynasty of Romanov to the throne (1613)...
If a tree is known by its fruit, and a good tree bears good fruit (cf. Mt. 7:17; Lk. 6:44), then is not the Mother of Goodness Itself, She who bore the Eternal Beauty, incomparably more excellent than every good, whether in this world or the world above? Therefore, the coeternal and identical Image of goodness, Preeternal, transcending all being, He Who is the preexisting and good Word of the Father, moved by His unutterable love for mankind and compassion for us, put on our image, that He might reclaim for Himself our nature which had been dragged down to uttermost Hades, so as to renew this corrupted nature and raise it to the heights of Heaven. For this purpose, He had to assume a flesh that was both new and ours, that He might refashion us from out of ourselves. Now He finds a Handmaiden perfectly suited to these needs, the supplier of Her own unsullied nature, the Ever-Virgin now hymned by us, and Whose miraculous Entrance into the Temple, into the Holy of Holies, we now celebrate. God predestined Her before the ages for the salvation and reclaiming of our kind. She was chosen, not just from the crowd, but from the ranks of the chosen of all ages, renowned for piety and understanding, and for their God-pleasing words and deeds.
In the beginning, there was one who rose up against us: the author of evil, the serpent, who dragged us into the abyss. Many reasons impelled him to rise up against us, and there are many ways by which he enslaved our nature: envy, rivalry, hatred, injustice, treachery, slyness, etc. In addition to all this,he also has within him the power of bringing death, which he himself engendered, being the first to fall away from true life. The author of evil was jealous of Adam, when he saw him being led from earth to Heaven, from which he was justly cast down. Filled with envy, he pounced upon Adam with a terrible ferocity, and even wished to clothe him with the garb of death.Envy is not only the begetter of hatred, but also of murder, which this truly man-hating serpent brought about in us. For he wanted to be master over the earth-born for the ruin of that which was created in the image and likeness of God. Since he was not bold enough to make a face to face attack, he resorted to cunning and deceit. This truly terrible and malicious plotter pretended to be a friend and useful adviser by assuming the physical form of a serpent, and stealthily took their position. By his God-opposing advice, he instills in man his own death-bearing power, like a venomous poison. If Adam had been sufficiently strong to keep the divine commandment, then he would have shown himself the vanquisher of his enemy, and withstood his deathly attack. But since he voluntarily gave in to sin, he was defeated and was made a sinner. Since he is the root of our race, he has produced us as death-bearing shoots. So, it was necessary for us, if he were to fight back against his defeat and to claim victory, to rid himself of the death-bearing venomous poison in his soul and body, and to absorb life, eternal and indestructible life. It was necessary for us to have a new root for our race, a new Adam, not just one Who would be sinless and invincible, but one Who also would be able to forgive sins and set free from punishment those subject to it. And not only would He have life in Himself, but also the capacity to restore to life, so that He could grant to those who cleave to Him and are related to Him by race both life and the forgiveness of their sins, restoring to life not only those who came after Him, but also those who already had died before Him. Therefore, St. Paul, that great trumpet of the Holy Spirit, exclaims, The first man Adam was made a living soul, the last Adam was made a quickening spirit (1 Cor. 15:45). Except for God, there is no one who is without sin, or life-creating, or able to remit sin. Therefore, the new Adam must be not only Man, but also God. He is at the same time life, wisdom, truth, love, and mercy, and every other good thing, so that He might renew the old Adam and restore him to life through mercy, wisdom and righteousness. These are the opposites of the things which the author of evil used to bring about our aging and death. As the slayer of mankind raised himself against us with envy and hatred, so the Source of life was lifted up [on the Cross] because of His immeasurable goodness and love for mankind. He intensely desired the salvation of His creature, i.e., that His creature would be restored by Himself. In contrast to this, the author of evil wanted to bring God's creature to ruin, and thereby put mankind under his own power, and tyrannically to afflict us. And just as he achieved the conquest and the fall of mankind by means of injustice and cunning, by deceit and his trickery, so has the Liberator brought about the defeat of the author of evil, and the restoration of His own creature with truth, justice and wisdom. It was a deed of perfect justice that our nature, which was voluntarily enslaved and struck down, should again enter the struggle for victory and cast off its voluntary enslavement. Therefore, God deigned to receive our nature from us, hypostatically uniting with it in a marvellous way. But it was impossible to unite that Most High Nature,Whose purity is incomprehensible for human reason, to a sinful nature before it had been purified. Therefore, for the conception and birth of the Bestower of purity, a perfectly spotless and Most Pure Virgin was required. Today we celebrate the memory of those things that contributed, if only once, to the Incarnation. He Who is God by nature, the Co-unoriginate and Coeternal Word and Son of the Transcendent Father, becomes the Son of Man, the Son of the Ever-Virgin. Jesus Christ the same yesterday and today, and forever (Heb. 13:8), immutable in His divinity and blameless in His humanity, He alone, as the Prophet Isaiah prophesied, Practiced no iniquity, nor deceit with His lips (Is. 53: 9). He alone was not brought forth in iniquity, nor was He conceived in sin, in contrast to what the Prophet David says concerning himself and every other man (Ps. 50/51: 5). Even in what He assumes, He is perfectly pure and has no need to be cleansed Himself. But for our sake, He accepted purification, suffering, death and resurrection, that He might transmit them to us. God is born of the spotless and Holy Virgin, or better to say, of the Most Pure and All-Holy Virgin. She is above every fleshly defilement, and even above every impure thought. Her conceiving resulted not from fleshly lust, but by the overshadowing of the Most Holy Spirit. Such desire being utterly alien to Her, it is through prayer and spiritual readiness that She declared to the angel: Behold the handmaiden of the Lord; be it unto Me according to thy word (Lk. 1:38), and that She conceived and gave birth. So, in order to render the Virgin worthy of this sublime purpose, God marked this ever-virgin Daughter now praised by us, from before the ages, and from eternity, choosing Her from out of His elect. Turn your attention then, to where this choice began. From the sons of Adam God chose the wondrous Seth, who showed himself a living heaven through his becoming behavior, and through the beauty of his virtues. That is why he was chosen, and from whom the Virgin would blossom as the divinely fitting chariot of God. She was needed to give birth and to summon the earth-born to heavenly sonship. For this reason also all the lineage of Seth were called sons of God, because from this lineage a son of man would be born the Son of God. The name Seth signifies a rising or resurrection, or more specifically, it signifies the Lord, Who promises and gives immortal life to all who believe in Him. And how precisely exact is this parallel! Seth was born of Eve, as she herself said, in place of Abel, whom Cain killed through jealousy (cf. Gen. 4:25); and Christ, the Son of the Virgin, was born for us in place of Adam, whom the author of evil also killed through jealousy. But Seth did not resurrect Abel, since he was only a foretype of the resurrection. But our Lord Jesus Christ resurrected Adam, since He is the very Life and the Resurrection of the earth-born, for whose sake the descendants of Seth are granted divine adoption through hope, and are called the children of God. It was because of this hope that they were called sons of God, as is evident from the one who was first called so, the successor in the choice.This was Enos, the son of Seth, who as Moses wrote, first hoped to call on the Name of the Lord (Gen. 4:26). In this manner, the choice of the future Mother of God, beginning with the very sons of Adam and proceeding through all the generations of time, through the Providence of God, passes to the Prophet-king David and the successors of his kingdom and lineage. When the chosen time had come, then from the house and posterity of David, Joachim and Anna are chosen by God. Though they were childless, they were by their virtuous life and good disposition the finest of all those descended from the line of David.And when in prayer they besought God to deliver them from their childlessness, and promised to dedicate their child to God from its infancy. By God Himself, the Mother of God was proclaimed and given to them as a child, so that from such virtuous parents the all-virtuous child would be raised.So in this manner, chastity joined with prayer came to fruition by producing the Mother of virginity, giving birth in the flesh to Him Who was born of God the Father before the ages. Now, when Righteous Joachim and Anna saw that they had been granted their wish, and that the divine promise to them was realized in fact, then they on their part, as true lovers of God, hastened to fulfill their vow given to God as soon as the child had been weaned from milk. They have now led this truly sanctified child of God, now the Mother of God, this Virgin into the Temple of God. And She, being filled with Divine gifts even at such a tender age, ... She, rather than others, determined what was being done over Her. In Her manner She showed that She was not so much presented into the Temple, but that She Herself entered into the service of God of her own accord, as if she had wings, striving towards this sacred and divine love. She considered it desirable and fitting that she should enter into the Temple and dwell in the Holy of Holies. Therefore, the High Priest, seeing that this child, more than anyone else, had divine grace within Her, wished to set Her within the Holy of Holies. He convinced everyone present to welcome this, since God had advanced it and approved it. Through His angel, God assisted the Virgin and sent Her mystical food, with which She was strengthened in nature, while in body She was brought to maturity and was made purer and more exalted than the angels, having the Heavenly spirits as servants. She was led into the Holy of Holies not just once, but was accepted by God to dwell there with Him during Her youth, so that through Her, the Heavenly Abodes might be opened and given for an eternal habitation to those who believe in Her miraculous birthgiving. So it is, and this is why She, from the beginning of time, was chosen from among the chosen. She Who is manifest as the Holy of Holies, Who has a body even purer than the spirits purified by virtue, is capable of receiving ... the Hypostatic Word of the Unoriginate Father.Today the Ever-Virgin Mary, like a Treasure of God, is stored in the Holy of Holies, so that in due time, (as it later came to pass) She would serve for the enrichment of, and an ornament for, all the world. Therefore, Christ God also glorifies His Mother, both before birth, and also after birth. We who understand the salvation begun for our sake through the Most Holy Virgin, give Her thanks and praise according to our ability. And truly, if the grateful woman (of whom the Gospel tells us), after hearing the saving words of the Lord, blessed and thanked His Mother, raising her voice above the din of the crowd and saying to Christ, Blessed is the womb that bore Thee, and the paps Thou hast sucked (Lk. 11:27), then we who have the words of eternal life written out for us, and not only the words, but also the miracles and the Passion, and the raising of our nature from death, and its ascent from earth to Heaven, and the promise of immortal life and unfailing salvation, then how shall we not unceasingly hymn and bless the Mother of the Author of our Salvation and the Giver of Life, celebrating Her conception and birth, and now Her Entry into the Holy of Holies? Now, brethren, let us remove ourselves from earthly to celestial things. Let us change our path from the flesh to the spirit. Let us change our desire from temporal things to those that endure. Let us scorn fleshly delights, which serve as allurements for the soul and soon pass away. Let us desire spiritual gifts, which remain undiminished. Let us turn our reason and our attention from earthly concerns and raise them to the inaccessible places of Heaven, to the Holy of Holies, where the Mother of God now resides. Therefore, in such manner our songs and prayers to Her will gain entry, and thus through her mediation, we shall be heirs of the everlasting blessings to come, through the grace and love for mankind of Him Who was born of Her for our sake, our Lord Jesus Christ, to Whom be glory, honor and worship, together with His Unoriginate Father and His Coeternal and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.
In Commemoration of he 400th Anniversary of the founding of the Romanov Dynasty - 11/13/13
Announcement
In Commemoration of he 400th Anniversary of the founding of the Romanov Dynasty
On November 26/December 9 there will be an All-Night Vigil for the Kursk-Root Icon
On the following day November 27/December 10 Divine Liturgy at 9:00 followed by a Pannykhida for all the reposed Romanovs
At 1:00 PM in the seminary hall there will be a lecture and report of our participation in this jubilee year, a slide presentation, a choral concert in honor of the Romanovs and specially prepared refreshments.
16th Anniversary of the repose of Brother Jose Munos-Cortes at Holy Trinity Monastery - 11/02/13
Thursday, October 31 2013 marked the 16th Anniversary memorial of the repose of Brother Jose Munos-Cortes, the guardian of the myrrhstreaming "Montreal" Iveron Icon of the Mother of God who was killed in Athens, Greece in 1997. The monastery brotherhood commemorated and prayed for his repose on his anniversary and on Saturday November 2, a large group of pilgrims headed by Protopriest Victor Potapov came to Holy Trinity Monastery for the weekend to pray at the grave of Brother Jose, attend the services at the monastery and visit the grounds and various places of obediences. May God bless all the pilgrims and grant rest with the righteous to the soul of Brother Jose Munos-Cortes.
Bishop Mstislav of Tikhvin and Ladeinoye Polye visit to Holy Trinity Monastery - 09/24/13
On Monday September 24, His Grace Bishop Mstislav of Tikhvin and Ladeinoye Polye celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Monastery together with Monastery and visiting clergy. At the end of the liturgy His Grace Bishop Mstislav greeted the Abbot, Archimandrite Luke and brotherhood, the students and faithful, and presented to the Monastery relics and an icon of Saint Alexander of Svir. Following this His Grace Bishop Mstislav and all the clergy processed to the burial crypts behind the Church to serve a litia for Metropolitan Laurus.
Funeral of Protodeacon John Onopko at Holy Trinity Monastery - 09/20/13
On Friday September 20, 2013, the funeral for Protodeacon John Onopko was held at Holy Trinity Monastey. The funeral was served by Archimandrite Luke, monastery clergy and clergy friends, friends of the newly reposed Fr. John. Friends and relatives came from Canada, Cleveland and many other places. Among those mourning were fellow members of the Displaced Persons Camp of Fishbeck, Germany where Father John lived with hunderds of other Russian refugees after World War II before arriving in America in 1950. Father Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow perhaps the one person in the monastery community who knew Father John the longest gave a very moving eulogy. He pointed out Father John's great love of the Church's services and his zeal in serving them. He was known for his love and service to Metropolitan Laurus and the Monastery in general. Over the years Father John personally purchased new vestments for the monastery services in all the different liturgical colors. Father John accepted the news of his incurable illness not only without complaint but with a certain joy and submission to God's will. People will remember him for his kindness and love he showed everybody. May God grant rest to his soul!
Protodeacon John Onopko Reposed in the Lord at Holy Trinity Monastery - 09/18/13
On Wednesday, September 18, Protodeacon John Onopko, longtime cleric of the Eastern American Diocese, reposed in the Lord. He was 87 years old. Fr. John was born on August 17, 1926 in Zmiev, Ukraine, near Kharkov. On Thursday, June 4, 1981, on the great feast of the Ascension of the Lord, he was ordained a deacon. On Saturday, July 2, 1994, on the very day of the Glorification of the Holy Hierarch John of Shanghai & San Francisco, he was elevated to the rank of protodeacon. Fr. John’s diaconal service lasted over 30 years; during this time, Fr. John became one of the senior-most deacons in the Diocese. He taught Liturgics at Holy Trinity Theological Seminary, and fulfilled his service at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, where he reposed in the Lord.
His funeral will be held at Holy Trinity Monastery on Friday September 20 at 1PM. There will be a memorial meal for Fr John at 12noon at the monastery. All are welcome.
Memory eternal to the newly reposed Protodeacon John!
“The Making of Holy Russia - The Orthodox Church and Russian Nationalism before the Revolution” By Priest John Strickland - 09/16/13
“The Making of Holy Russia - The Orthodox Church and Russian Nationalism before the Revolution” By Priest John Strickland
Place: Seminary Hall When: Tuesday at 5
This lecture is open to the public.
«Создание Святой Руси: Православная Церковь и русский национализм до революции» Лекция Иерей Иоанн Стрикленд Когда: во вторник в 5 часов Место проведения: Семинарский зал Эта лекция является открытой для общественности.
Talk by Archimandrite Roman Krassovsky on Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem - 09/11/13
On Friday September 13, 5PM, Archimandrite Roman Krassovsky, head of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem will give a talk in the seminary hall about the work and life in the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem. All are welcome.
Beginning of Classes at Holy Trinity Seminary - 09/11/13
Monday, September 9, 2013 was the first day for the Seminarians of Holy Trinity Seminary. After the liturgy a moleben was served by Archimandrite Luke asking God to bless the undertaking of studies for the seminarians and that their life in the Monastery would be one of spiritual benefit. There are a total of thirty students.
Restoration Work at Holy Trinity Monastery - September 2013 Update - 09/03/13
By God's grace work is continuing to complete as much as possible outside work before winter sets in. Stucco work is continuing in the Cemetery Chapel which will be followed by the placing of a new floor as it is raising due to water absorption, fixing the interior to prevent leaks and upgrading the electrical work. The summer kitchen that is used as an extra trapeza for pilgrims and the music school was found to be in a very bad condition with much of the framing having decayed right through. Also roof repairs are being made where needed before winter sets in. God willing plumbing work will begin during the winter.
Every year during Labor Day weekend the monastery hosts a pilgrimage where many come to pray to the Mother of God and Saint Job of Pochaev. So also this year between August 31 - September 2 the monastery kept this tradition and had His Grace Bishop Jerome lead the services accompanied by monastic clergy and visiting clergy. Archpriest Vladimir Malchenko came with many pilgrims from Toronto to take part in the celebrations and to support the monastery. Also a group of youth came for the weekend where they participated in monastery work, listened to a talk on spiritual struggle and took part in the monastery services. The Kursk Root Icon was present during all the services and the icon was taken to all the monastery and seminary quarters to be blessed. On Saturday after lunch a pannykhida was served by Archimandrite Luke for the repose of Metropolitan Laurus and Archimandrite Flor who saints day this was. At 3 pm the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God was brought to the Holy Trinity Monastery Cathedral from the Dormition Chapel which due to rain this year the procession was canceled. An Akathist was served followed by the Communion Rule and at 7PM vigil. Around three hundred pilgrims came on Sunday. As has been the tradition in the monastery, two liturgies were served on this day. One at 6am in the Saint Job of Pochaev Church and one at 9am in the main cathedral. Bishop Jerome gave two short sermons, one in Russian on the Epistle theme, "Бог ны посланники последния яви", where "poslanniki" can mean both "apostles" and "exiles" (from our true Home), and in English on the Gospel words about "Faith as a grain of mustard seed". After the liturgy a moleben was served with procession around the Church. A meal was served for all the pilgrims after the service.
Restoration Work at Holy Trinity Monastery - August 2013 Update - 08/22/13
Since our last update with phase one of the electrical work at Holy Trinity Monastery we are now continuing with phase two of rewiring each floor by disabling old electrical panels and connecting everything to the new panels and then beginning the difficult task of running new wires to each room. We have also begun doing exterior stucco work repairs for the Holy Trinity Monastery Cathedral as well as the Dormition Chapel in the Cemetery as over the years the old stucco was crumbling. Exterior repair work is already in progress for the main monastery garages which over the years have begun to decay in many areas forcing us to close the outdoor rest rooms due to water coming in through the roof. The Kitchen project is currently in its last stage of planning which we hope to complete by the end of the year and also replace the septic system. We will be posting more pictures as work progresses.
Repairs are very costly and we appreciate your continued prayeful and finacial support!
Our Abbot and Rector Archimandrite Luke announced at the end of the Liturgy the beginning of the Peter and Paul Fast, according to the Church Calendar. He gave a directive that during the Fast to add to the Litany of Fervent Supplication the petition: "Look down O Master, Lover of mankind..." and commemorate, "All those who suffer and are persecuted for the Orthodox Faith and this land its authorities and all those who with faith and piety live herein."
Christians are being persecuted in China by godless Communists/materialists and in Syria by God-fighting Muslim terrorists. In this country and in other countries on the highest levels of government decisions are made that distort and redefine the institution of marriage and moral norms contrary to the teaching of the Gospel and the Orthodox Faith as well as civilization from the time of our First Ancestors. In the scientific world genetic manipulation has reached bizarre proportions which undermine the meaning of the word "natural" and demonically mock the Creator attempting to usurp His power. The value and significance of the Orthodox understanding of what it means to be human is turned upside down.
This Fast was instituted to secure and preserve the Gifts of the Holy Spirit received during the festive period and also to inspire a change of heart in all of us. We pray that those who have alined themselves with the Prince of this World will turn instead to Christ and His Church, the only source of Salvation, Truth and Goodness!
Restoration Work at Holy Trinity Monastery - Phase One of Electrical Upgrade - 06/15/13
We have begun the first phase of the electrical upgrade to the main monastic dormitory and the Cathedral. This involves adding 4, 100 amp fused disconnects in main electrical room in the basement of the monastery, installing conduits , cabling and 42 main lug panels on all floors and the church as well as running new undeground cable from the dormitory to the Church. This phase is nearly complete. The next stage is the most difficult and time consuming stage of the project which will require the rewiring of the buildings, disabling and removing old wiring and connecting new wires to the new panels. We ask for your support to help us continue this work.
Holy Unction Service - Great Tuesday 2013 - Photo Report - 04/30/13
The Mystery of Healing and Forgiveness Holy Unction
So they (the Apostles) went out and preached that people should repent. And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them (Mark 6: 12–13).
Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the presbyters of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven (James 5: 14–15).
Christ as Saviour and Healer Christ came into the world for the salvation of all. One of the signs of His divine ministry was the healing of the sick. He healed those who were blind, paralysed, possessed, crippled, deaf and dumb, and, in general, all types of physical infirmities. The power of healing remains in the Church since Christ Himself remains in the Church through the Holy Spirit. The power of healing was given to the Holy Apostles and through them to the bishops and priests. One of the ways that healing was done was through the anointing of the sick with blessed oil.
The Purpose of Holy Unction The Mystery of Holy Unction is a service of the anointing of the sick with blessed oil. It is the Church’s specific prayer for the spiritual, physical, and mental healing of a sick person, whatever the nature or seriousness of the illness may be–and there is not one of us who does not need healing for some physical, mental or spiritual illness. However, not only is Holy Unction for healing, but, as Saint James says in his Epistle, it is also for the forgiveness of our sins.
Holy Unction and Confession Orthodox Christians who confess on a regular basis and are struggling for their salvation are able to participate in the Mystery of Holy Unction. The proper order is:
1. Repentance and Confession 2. Holy Communion 3. Holy Unction - anointing with Holy Oil
Holy Unction and Fasting In general, one does not need to fast when receiving Holy Unction.
Homily On the Mystery of Holy Unction
By Saint Nikolai Velimirovich ‘... and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them’ (Mark 6:13)
The Holy Apostles did this, and we are commanded to do likewise. The Apostle James wrote for us: ‘Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the presbyters of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven’ (James 5: 14–15). One must call no-one but the priest, the elders of the Church, and they must anoint him in no-one’s name (so that it be not diabolical) but that of the Lord. No-one but the Lord will raise him, neither can anyone but the Lord forgive him his sins. But why with oil, and not by some other means? Because it is so commanded; and it is for us simply to show our obedience and faith. Why is it commanded that we be baptised with water, chrismated with myrrh and communicated with bread and wine? These things are God’s choice and God’s business, and it is for us to be obedient and to believe. The elements used in the various Mysteries differ, but the grace is one even as the Lord is one, and everything is from the Lord. Why does the Lord use material means to pour His grace upon us? The Lord does not need these material things, but rather we, as long as we are material, need them. In condescension to our weakness, the Lord makes use of matter. To the immaterial angels, He gives grace by immaterial means.
Of itself, the oil is powerless, as is every material thing on its own, but God’s grace is all-powerful. God gives His grace through the oil, and it heals the sick, raises the weak and restores the insane to sanity.
Oh, my brethren, how ineffable is God’s goodness! What has the Lord not done for us? What more could we desire? He has foreseen all our needs and provided medicine for them in advance. He only seeks from us that we believe in Him and fulfil His commandments. Is it not blind of us, and shameful, that we often carry out the directions of doctors, mortal men like ourselves, more carefully and conscientiously than we do those of God immortal?
O all-gracious Lord, shatter the stone of our hearts with the power of Thy grace; that we may, before our last hour, show Thee the gratitude we owe Thee, O our gracious and most wise God. To Thee be glory and praise for ever. Amen.
The Prologue from Ochrid by Saint Nikolai Velimirovich
Lazarus Saturday - Tonsure into Riassophor Monk - 04/28/13
On Friday April 26 2013 after the Matins service for Lazarus Saturday, Archimnadrite Luke tonsured Novice Alexander to a Riassophor Monk. Father Alexander makes church candles as his obedience. Archimandrite Luke said that the candle is a symbol of Christ and a symbol of prayer and wished the newly tonsured monastic that his life be with Christ always doing the Jesus Prayer.
Homily on the Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday) by Saint Nikolai Velimirovich
One of the most miraculous details of our Savior’s life was foreseen by the Prophet Zacharias through the dark glass of time, and described thus: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Sion; proclaim it aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem; behold, the King is coming to thee, just, and a Saviour; he is meek and riding on an ass, and a young foal And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem. And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither. And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.(Zach. 9:9). The Apostle Luke, an eyewitness, describes this event:
And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said unto them. And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt? And they said, The Lord hath need of him. And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way. And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, and shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, and he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought; saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves. And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him, and could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear him (Lk. 19:28–48).
This is the description of an historical event that took place twenty centuries ago, as related by an eyewitness. But this event has more than historical significance; it also has a spiritual meaning, and therefore also a moral meaning for every modern-day Christian. According to the spiritual meaning, Jerusalem signifies the human soul, and the entry of the Lord into Jerusalem signifies the entrance of God into the soul. The multitudes of people, crowded and pushing one against another, joyfully awaiting and greeting Christ, symbolize the noble sentiments and exalted thoughts of a person who joyfully greets God, his Savior and Deliverer. The leaders of the crowd of people, who hate Christ and want to kill Him, personify the lower desires and earthbound thoughts, which take the upper hand over man’s noble nature and oppress it. Now this lower human nature rebels against God’s entry into the soul, for when God is enthroned there, the lower nature will inevitably be destroyed.
The Temple in Jerusalem symbolizes the holy of holies of the human soul—that sacred place where the Holy Spirit has if only a miniscule haven even in the greatest sinner. But earthly passions penetrate there also, and lower human nature has used even it to achieve its base aims.
Christ heals the soul of those sick ones who fall down before Him with faith, and this means that certain impulses of the soul, although sick, thirst for unity with God and seek for Him, the only true Doctor in the world. Christ’s prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction symbolizes the destruction of any soul that God rejects, lays low, and spews forth from Himself.
No one in this world is happy unless he has opened wide the gates of his spiritual Jerusalem—his soul—and received God into himself. A godless man feels lonely to despair. The society of others does not make his loneliness go away, but only increases it. However he who has taken God into his soul will never feel lonely even in a desert. No one dies an eternal death other than one in whom God has died.
Moleben and Akathist served to the Myrrh Bearing Icon "Softener of Evil Hearts" - 04/22/13
On Monday April 22 2013 a moleben and Akathist was served to the myrrh bearing icon "Softener of Evil Hearts". The icon will be in Jordanville until Bright Tuesday. Usually during Lent the icon does not give much myrrh according to its keeper Sergei but for the first time it has been giving a lot of myrrh during its stay in Jordanville for the past two weeks. Archimandrite Luke had to change the myrrh soaked cotton from the icon as the container which hold the cotton was soaked with myrrh. Myrrh forms as drops which then run down the glass and icon and collect onto the cotton.
Myrrh Streaming Icon , "Softener of Evil Hearts" in Jordanville - 04/21/13
On Monday April 22 there will be the greeting of the myrrhstreaming icon "Softener of Evil Hearts" at Holy Trinity Monastery Cathedral followed by a moleben and Akathist in Slavonic around 12:30PM.
On Thursday April 25, 6PM there will be a moleben and Akathist in English
On Friday April19, Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada led the service of the Akathist to the Mother of God during the matins service. Following the Matins service Novice Victor Gregory was tonsured a riassophore monk. Archimandrite Luke wished the newly tonsured monk patience and perseverance in his monastic struggles.
Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James - 04/12/13
On Friday Aril 12, 2013 the Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James was served for the first time at Holy Trinity Monastery.
A short History of the Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James by Bishop Jerome of Manhattan
The Presanctified Liturgy of St. James was the traditional form of the Presanctified, as celebrated by the Church of Jerusalem in the Holy Sepulchre. The oldest Greek text was published in 1896 and subsequent editions of Brightman's "Liturgies Eastern and Western", Vol. I: Eastern Liturgies, on pp. 494-501. This edition contains only the litanies, exclamations and some rubrics, but not the inaudible prayers of the celebrant. It is found complete, in the "Liturgicon of Jerusalem" (also entirely in Greek), published some years ago by the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Judging by the text in Brightman, this Liturgy was at first celebrated, not in conjunction with Vespers, but together with the Typica. Therefore the Litanies said "Let us complete our prayer unto the Lord", and not "...our *evening* prayer unto the Lord". This also explains several other peculiarities of the text. The earlier form of the Liturgy began with a procession from one chapel to another in the church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is why it substitutes the "Tropar of the day" for "O Gladsome Light" at the Entrance.
The Presanctified Liturgy of St. James includes the Creed, the prayer "Vouchsafe O Lord", and other material not normally found in the Presanctified. A translation into modern Serbian was published by Bishop Chrysostom of the Banat diocese, where it is celebrated on specific days in Lent. However, the Jerusalem edition says this Liturgy can be celebrated on any Lenten weekday.
The Northern Clergy Retreat concluded with the Hierarchal Presanctified Liturgy - 04/03/13
Wednesday, April 3, marked the final day of the Northern Lenten Retreat for clergy of the Eastern American Diocese and the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. The retreat concluded with the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, led by the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion. The First Hierarch was concelebrated by His Grace, Bishop George, and retreat participants. During the Little Entrance, Priest Job Watts (rector of St. Nektarios Church in Lenoir City, TN) was awarded the kamilavka.
The Liturgy was an expression of the spiritual unity that has dwelt among the clergy, and is characteristic of past lenten retreats in the Diocese. "Our unity as the Body of Christ is manifested when we partake of the one Holy Bread," said Fr. Job. "That unity is the basis from which everything else flows. Roundtable discussions and lectures will bring us no benefit if we are not mystically tied together through the Holy Bread."
Archpriest Mark Shinn (rector of St. Andrew’s Patriarchal Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA) echoed his sentiments: "Love reigns at the altar table. Prior to communing, we embrace one another with the words, ‘Christ is in our midst – He is and ever shall be.’ One cannot imagine the Church without this understanding of love and unity, centered on the Holy Eucharist. It is the living incarnation of what it means to be the Church."
After the Liturgy, a farewell luncheon was held in the monastery refectory, followed by an akathist in the main cathedral to St. Luke, the Surgeon of Simferopol, before a piece of his holy relics. The Northern Clergy Retreat thus concluded, and participants departed to their home parishes, spiritually energized for the remainder of the Fast.
Northern Lenten Retreat at Holy Trinity Monastery - 04/02/13
On Tuesday, April 2, the Northern Lenten Retreat for clergy of the Eastern American Diocese and the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA officially commenced at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. On the eve of the retreat, many clerics began to arrive in Jordanville, traveling great distances to be with one another in these sacred days of Great Lent. Over 85 clerics and matushkas are participating in the Northern Retreat, in addition to all of the seminarians of Holy Trinity Seminary.
Before the beginning of the Great Compline, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, together with His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop George of Mayfield, and gathered clergy, greeted the holy relics of the Holy Hierarch St. Luke of Simferopol in Holy Trinity Cathedral. The relics have been traveling across the East Coast with the blessing of the Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, His Eminence Justinian, Archbishop of Naro-Fominsk, and will remain in Holy Trinity Monastery for the duration of the conference.
On Tuesday morning, upon completion of the appointed lenten services, retreat participants assembled in the seminary hall for a moleben before the beginning of any good work. Metropolitan Hilarion then welcomed the participants, wishing them God’s aid for a fruitful retreat. Monastery abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka) also welcomed the clergy and noted the pleasant effect that the unexpected snowstorm had on the penitential spirit of the retreat. "The holy fathers of our monastery have always maintained that snow and wintery weather during Great Lent, help us to focus more intently on prayer," said Fr. Luke.
On Tuesday, April 2, marked the first full day of the Northern Lenten Retreat for clergy of the Eastern American Diocese and the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. The day included a full schedule of lectures on the lives of the saints, the history of the Diocese, and exciting missionary activity abroad.
The first lecture was "One who came to love suffering," by Archpriest Victor Potapov (dean of the South and rector of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Washington, DC), who spoke on the life of St. Luke, Surgeon of Simferopol. This was followed by two video lectures by Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov (dean of New Jersey and rector of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Howell, NJ) on the lives Archbishops Averky (Taushev) and Nikon (Rklitsky), touching on personal recollections and remarks by the senior-most cleric of the Eastern American Diocese (who unfortunately could not attend due to illness, and recorded the lectures in conjunction with the diocesan Media Office).
After a luncheon, the retreat broke for free time, resuming with a talk by Priest Peter Jackson (rector of Sts. Theodore Church in Buffalo, NY) on his visit to Guatemala and the 50,000 recent Maya Orthodox converts. Archpriest Gregory Naumenko (rector of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Rochester, NY) then led a group discussion with the assembled priests and hierarchs. During Compline and Matins, retreat participants’ confessions were heard by Metropolitan Hilarion and Bishop George.
Standard Size Candles Produced at Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/31/13
The following size candles are the standard sizes that we make for Holy Trinity Monastery. The diameter sizes are standard sizes that most Russian Churches use. It is quicker to fulfil orders in a timely fashion for these candles as we always stock extra boxes for these sizes.
Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James - April 12, 2013 - 03/29/13
At 11 am on Friday April 12 the Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James will be celebrated.
A short History of the Presanctified Liturgy of the Apostle James by Bishop Jerome of Manhattan
The Presanctified Liturgy of St. James was the traditional form of the Presanctified, as celebrated by the Church of Jerusalem in the Holy Sepulchre. The oldest Greek text was published in 1896 and subsequent editions of Brightman's "Liturgies Eastern and Western", Vol. I: Eastern Liturgies, on pp. 494-501. This edition contains only the litanies, exclamations and some rubrics, but not the inaudible prayers of the celebrant. It is found complete, in the "Liturgicon of Jerusalem" (also entirely in Greek), published some years ago by the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Judging by the text in Brightman, this Liturgy was at first celebrated, not in conjunction with Vespers, but together with the Typica. Therefore the Litanies said "Let us complete our prayer unto the Lord", and not "...our *evening* prayer unto the Lord". This also explains several other peculiarities of the text. The earlier form of the Liturgy began with a procession from one chapel to another in the church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is why it substitutes the "Tropar of the day" for "O Gladsome Light" at the Entrance.
The Presanctified Liturgy of St. James includes the Creed, the prayer "Vouchsafe O Lord", and other material not normally found in the Presanctified. A translation into modern Serbian was published by Bishop Chrysostom of the Banat diocese, where it is celebrated on specific days in Lent. However, the Jerusalem edition says this Liturgy can be celebrated on any Lenten weekday.
The first week of Great Lent was observed at Holy Trinity Monastery with customary solemnity. There were no classes at the seminary that week, so the seminarians, the monks, and the local Orthodox community all joined in prayer at the divine services.
Every day the services began early in the morning, before dawn. The semantron woke the monastery and seminary communities and called them to prayer. The full liturgical cycle was followed each day, with Midnight Office, Matins, the Hours, Typika, and Vespers. On Wednesday and Friday, the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts was served at Vespers. The services took over seven hours with readings from the Holy Fathers, and ended after noon, when the only meal of the day was served without oil. After a rest, at six o’clock in the evening all gathered again in the monastery church for Great Compline. Archimandrite Luke read the Great Canon of St. Andrew from Monday to Thursday. On Friday we read the canons for Holy Communion. Everyone in the community prepared to receive Communion on Saturday morning, which this year commemorated both St. Theodore the Tyro and the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste.
On Sunday, which celebrates the Triumph of Orthodoxy, His Grace Bishop Jerome of Manhattan came to celebrate the Divine Liturgy with the monastery clergy. At the end of the Liturgy, the Anathema Service began. Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk intoned the anathemas. This year, another anathema was added to the service taken from from the Pan-Orthodox Council of 1583 anathematizing all who, “[do] not confess with heart and mouth that the Holy Spirit proceeds out of only the Father, essentially and hypostatically, as Christ says in the Gospel.”
Fifth Anniversary since the Repose of Metropolitan Laurus - 03/16/13
Saturday March 16, 2013 marked the fifth anniversary since the repose of Metropolitan Laurus. A hierarchical liturgy was served at 6 am presided by Metropolitan Hilarion and accompanied by many clergy. At the end of the service a pannykhida was served for the reposed of Metropolitan Hilarion. May God grant rest to his soul and his example serve for us a reminder of our calling to strive to fulfill Christ's commandments in all aspects of our life as did Vladyka Laurus throughout his life.
Talk by Metropolitan Hilarion to the Brotherhood of Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/15/13
On Friday March 15 2013 his Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion gave a talk to the fathers of Holy Trinity Monastery about his recollections of the various holy monastics that lived in Jordanville. He talked about the virtues of the founders of the monastery, Fr Panetelimon and Fr. Joseph, about Fr Germogen the gardener, Fr Vladimir, Fr Prokopy the cook, Archbishop Averky, Archbishop Vitaly and about the life of Metropolitan Laurus, his monastic beginnings in Vladimirona and the virtues that characterised him namely his love, purity and simplicity. The Metropolitan then gave practical advice to the monastic about cultivating prayers, good thoughts, not relying on our own judgement and discernment which often lead one astray and on cultivating humility and obedience in our monastics duties. He also shared from his own experience that there are no perfect monastic situations. He concluded by saying that he believes that many of the fathers who struggled in our monastery and are now in the cemetery attained sanctity.
When: April 1-3, 2013. Retreat officially begins on Tuesday, April 2nd at 8:00 AM; Monday, April 1st is designated as a travel day – dinner at 7:00 PM, followed by Great Compline.
Cost: $150 per person (includes two nights lodging). Local registration cost is $100 per person and does not include lodging accomodations.
Who can attend: Clergy (deacons and priests) and matushkas of the Eastern American Diocese ROCOR and Patriarchal Parishes in the USA MP.
Lodging: Monastery guesthouse. Two nights lodging (double occupancy) on April 1st and 2nd. When registering, please indicate your primary roommate choice (couples will automatically be assigned to the same room).
Airport: Those who wish to fly to New York must fly to Albany International Airport ALB and send their flight information to Cyprian@hts.eduin order to arrange for pick-up and drop-off.
Services: All clergy will serve at the Hierarchal Presanctified Liturgy in Holy Trinity Cathedral on Wednesday, April 3rd – 5:00 AM Midnight Office and Hours, 8:30 AM Liturgy. Clergy are asked to bring their own black vestments.
Speaker: The main speaker at the Northern Retreat is Protopresbyter Valery Lukianov.
Registration: The Northern Retreat is limited to 100 participants and registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.Registration must be completed online at www.northretreat.eventbrite.com or by using the links below:
5th Anniversary of the Repose of Met. Laurus - March 16 2013 - 03/01/13
Dear in the Lord Reverend Fathers,
Saturday, March 16th will mark the fifth anniversary of the blessed repose the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus. That morning, Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 6:00 AM by His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, in Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, followed by a panihida. All diocesan clergy are invited to Jordanville to honor the memory of our beloved First Hierarch.
With the blessing of Metropolitan Hilarion, all diocesan rectors are asked to serve panihidas in their parishes on Saturday evening, March 16th, prior to the All-Night Vigil, and are asked to commemorate the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus at the Great Entrance on Sunday morning, March 17th.
May our Lord God grant eternal rest to His faithful servant, the ever-memorable Metropolitan Laurus, in the mansions of the righteous.
Thank you for your Support of Holy Trinity Monastery - 03/01/13
We are grateful!
We pray that God will mercifully bless and reward all the kind donors, the laborers of the Fund for Assistance, and the Eastern American Diocesan Council who generously support Holy Trinity Monastery. Your continued assistance will help us maintain the many buildings of Holy Trinity Monastery which is the home for our Monastic Brotherhood, our seminarians, the alumni among all ranks of our clergy, and the thousands of pilgrims who visit us throughout the year. We are deeply grateful for the love and attention you have shown us.
Love in Christ,
Archimandrite Luke and the Brotherhood of Holy Trinity Monastery
An Exhibition of Russian Icons From 18th and 19th Centuries and a Celebration of Orthodox Christian Liturgical Music - 03/01/13
St. Jonah Orthodox Church, a parish of the Russian Church Outside of Russia, Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America, sponsored an exhibit of historic Russian icons and a Liturgical Choral Concert in the English language, March 1-3, 2013 in Spring, Texas. Guest speakers were the Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), Dean of Holy Trinity Seminary and Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, along with Dr. Kurt Sander, composer of Orthodox Liturgical Music and Associate Professor of Music Theory and Composition and Music Department Chair at Northern Kentucky University.
More talks by Archimandrite Luke at Parishes in Texas - 03/01/13
On Monday March 1 2013, Archimandrite Luke was invited to conduct a conference with the women of the parish of St. Jonah. A moleben was served, followed by two hours of questions and answers concerning spiritual life, social issues, Scripture and iconography.
On Tuesday he was asked to speak to the adult Scripture class at St. Joseph's Antiochian Church in Houston. Questions and answers concerning the role of monasteries in Church life, apocalyptic times and Scripture were presented.
At the monastery at all the petitions in the services and at the Proskomedia the authorities and armed forces are commemorated as anyone who visits can attest.
On Tuesday February 13, 2013 Holy Trinity Seminary celebrated the Feast of the Holy Three Hierarchs. His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion led the services. We had the special blessing to have also the Kursk Root Icon for Vigil and the Divine Liturgy which brought by the Rev. Priest Nikolai Olhovski. S
Dear in the Lord reverend Fathers, brothers, and sisters, Whenever we are in need or in sorrow, we turn our prayers to our Lord, His Mother, and the holy saints. At the same time, our Orthodox monastics are in constant prayer for us and for the entire world every day of their lives. It is in our best interests, as well as being our solemn duty as Orthodox Christians, to support the life of our monks and nuns.
The First Hierarch of ROCOR, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, expressed his deep concern over the critical condition in which Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY – the oldest monastery in the Russian Church Abroad – finds itself. Holy Trinity Monastery is facing serious financial difficulties as a result of necessary renovations to the property, which will cost the monastery an estimated three million dollars.
Metropolitan Hilarion led a Panihida at the Grave of Metropolitan Philaret (Voznesensky) - 12/14/12
On Friday, December 14, on the feast day of the Righteous St. Philaret the Merciful, the ever-memorable Metropolitan Philaret (Voznesensky) was prayerfully commemorated in Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY. The First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, led a panihida at the grave of Metropolitan Philaret, located in a crypt below the altar of Holy Trinity Cathedral.
His Eminence was co-served by monastery abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), diocesan secretary Archpriest Serge Lukianov, Priest Alexandre Antchoutine (rector of Holy Virgin Intercession Church in Glen Cove, NY), and monastic clergy.
Metropolitan Philaret was the third First Hierarch of ROCOR (1964 to 1985). He was a holy man who lived a life of piety and was known by many as a spiritual giant and one of the pillars of the Church Abroad. When his remains were relocated from the cemetery church to the main cathedral of Holy Trinity Monastery in 1997, the coffin was opened and his relics were discovered to be incorrupt. Since then, many in ROCOR have been calling for his glorification and submitting account of miracles that happened through his prayers. During the last session of the Diocesan Council on November 14, with the blessing of Metropolitan Hilarion, a local diocesan glorification committee was organized to gather information and raise awareness of the righteous life of Metropolitan Philaret, as well as Brother Jose Muñoz-Cortes. Archpriest Victor Potapov was assigned chairman of the committee. More information will be published in the near future.
On Tuesday December 3 - 4 Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada served at Holy Trinity Monastery for the Feast of the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple. During the Divine Liturgy Fr Philosoph Uhlman was ordained to the priesthood. As a deacon Fr Philosoph served at the Church of Saint Sophia in Victoria British Columbia. He has been now assigned to start a mission Church of Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco in Nanamo British Columbia on Vancouver Island. Fr Philosoph will serve for forty days at Holy Trinity Monastery. Archbishop Gabriel wished Fr Philosoph God's blessing in his new service to the Church to cater to the spiritual needs of the Orthodox Christians in the area and do missionary work.
Every year on the feast of Saint Paisius Velichkovsky services are held at the chapel of the Optina Elders located on the third floor of the monastic dormitory. This is due to the influence of Saint Paisius in the revival of Russian monasticism including Optina monastery. Below is an article by Fr. Seraphim Rose of blessed memory on Saint Paisius.
Introduction to Blessed Paisius Velichkovsky: The Man Behind the Philokalia by Fr. Seraphim Rose of Platina
DECEMBER 21, 1972, marked the 250th anniversary of the birth of Schema-Archimandrite Paisius Velichkovsky. This remarkable anniversary went almost totally unnoticed in the Orthodox world, which is so occupied with its worldly problems and its very struggle for survival. And yet, for Orthodox Christians of the 20th century there is no more important Holy Father of recent times than Blessed Paisius Velichkovsky. This is so not merely because of his holy life; not merely because, like another Saint Gregory Palamas, he defended the hesychast practice of the mental Prayer of Jesus; not only because he, through his many disciples, inspired the great monastic revival of the 19th century which flowered most notably in the holy Elders of Optina Monastery; but most of all because he redirected the attention of Orthodox Christians to the sources of Holy Orthodoxy, which are the only foundation of true Orthodox life and thought whether of the past or of the present, whether of monks or of laymen.
It is these very same sources—the Divine Scriptures and the writings of the Holy Fathers—which are the foundation of all genuine Orthodoxy in our own times. The observer of the Orthodox world today can see easily enough what "Orthodoxy" becomes when these sources are not made the foundation of life and thought.
The followers of unenlightened custom are themselves innocent; they merely accept what has been "handed down" to them. But not seeing the meaning and not knowing the sources of what has been handed down, they are easily led into error, accepting customs which the Church has allowed only out of her condescension or economy as if they were the best of Orthodoxy, and also improper customs of recent heterodox origin and inspiration, together with the pure and meaningful Orthodox customs handed down from the Holy Fathers. Under strict yet prudent pastors, such people can be guided in the true path of Orthodoxy; but in our own time of such widespread irresponsible Church leadership, these people are more often guided gradually into a path of ever greater and more senseless innovation and reform, the clearest example of which is perhaps the Greek Archdiocese of America, where pews, organs, and Uniat spirituality and theology have become the new "customs" of an unfortunate people whose Orthodoxy has been stolen from it.
Far worse, however, is the state of those who, being unrooted in the true sources of Holy Orthodoxy, occupy the positions of pastors and theologians and in their "learned ignorance" seek to guide their flocks according to some fashionable intellectual current of the day. Such are the leaders of the "charismatic movement," swept off their feet by an experience which, while compatible with Protestantism and Papism, is easily discerned as a satanic deception by those who are rooted in and live in the Holy Fathers. Such also are the "theologians" of the "Paris" and other modernist schools who, being at home in heterodox modes of thought and life, dare to present the Holy Fathers themselves according to the disfigured modern understanding of them, transmitting neither their true message nor (much less) their Orthodox savor, giving rather an academic two-dimensional caricature of them, suitable only for presentation in decadent ecumenical salons and in lifeless academic journals.
Both of these types of "Orthodox" people are precisely those who are cut off from the sources of Orthodoxy, and who in turn help to cut others off from these sources. The movement of true Orthodoxy in our own times has seen with increasing clarity the need to separate itself from this pseudo- or semi-Orthodoxy and refind its roots in the true and unadulterated sources of Orthodoxy, the Holy Fathers. And this is precisely what the Blessed Paisius saw and did, making him a key figure for us today.
Having come to love the Holy Fathers and true Orthodox piety in his childhood, Blessed Paisius at the age of 17 saw that even in the best Orthodox school of Russia he was not being given the pure teaching of Holy Orthodoxy from the patristic sources, but rather something second-hand and accompanied by useless pagan learning; and, further, that an over-emphasis on the formal side of the Church's existence, greatly furthered by the Government in its attempt to make the Church a "department" of the State, promoted chiefly the idea that church-minded people, the clergy and even the monks, occupied a definite place in the apparatus of the Church organization. This overemphasis of a real but decidedly secondary aspect of church life tended to obscure the primary aspect: the love and zeal for true Orthodoxy and true piety, which are what inspire every genuine Orthodox Christian, whether clergy, monk, or layman. Seeing the difficulty of exercising his love and zeal in the Russia of his time, Paisius left his homeland in search of a place where his tender Orthodox conscience could mature in blessed freedom and in the opportunity to draw instruction and inspiration from the unadulterated sources of Orthodoxy.
Having come to spiritual maturity, Blessed Paisius then himself became a source and seedbed for the great monastic and patristic revival of Holy Russia in the 19th century. True patristic spirituality and its hesychast tradition, to be sure, never died out in Russia, not even in the 18th century, that age of pseudo-enlightenment when the Empress Catherine closed most of the Orthodox monasteries and strictly regulated the rest of them; no, it remained and provided the fertile ground on which the disciples and the example of Blessed Paisius were to bear such great spiritual fruits. But it required the patristic bees of the great Elder Paisius, bringing back the pollen of the true and free tradition of Orthodoxy under the much more favorable climate of the 19th century, to cause the native Russian trees to give forth such a marvelous abundance of spiritual fruit.
Today the situation of Orthodoxy is rather different, and much worse, than it was in the time of the Elder Paisius. In place of the veneer of paganism and Latinism which never actually touched the heart of Orthodoxy, we have today a prevailing atmosphere of modernist heterodoxy and senseless "keeping up with the times" which has pierced the very heart of some Orthodox Churches so deeply that they will doubtless never recover, and their children are deprived of Orthodoxy without even knowing what they have lost. In place of the heavy hand of governmental bureaucracy, we see the far heavier hand of pseudo-Christian and pagan ways of life which are depriving Orthodox Christians of something which was almost untouched in the time of Blessed Paisius: Orthodox piety, the whole Christian way of life. And, to make this whole difficult situation virtually impossible, we are beset with self-styled reformers and revivers who neither know nor feel nor love what Orthodoxy is and would "restore" the faithful to the latest fashion of Protestant scholarship or piety. The 17-year-old Orthodox youth of today has usually not been raised properly and consciously in Orthodox teaching and piety, or, if he has, the ever-increasing tempo of paganized modern life acts powerfully to negate his upbringing; he has usually not come to love the Holy Fathers and the Divine services from childhood, and to hunger for more; and there is scarcely anywhere he can turn in order to correct the deficiencies of his upbringing and environment: of all the Orthodox seminaries in the free world, it is doubtful that any save the Russian-language seminary at Holy Trinity Monastery (Jordanville, New York) will even attempt to give him an education in genuine Orthodoxy. For such a youth not deeply grounded in Orthodoxy, the human side of the Church all too often becomes the center of attention, and the all too prevalent petty quarrels and injustices among church people are often sufficient to turn his attention away from the Church altogether, or if some religious interest remains—to turn him toward one of the flourishing religious or social-cults of the day, or even to the widely-advertised life of drugs and immorality.
Truly, we are far more in need today of a return to the sources of genuine Orthodoxy than Blessed Paisius was! Our situation is hopeless! And yet God's mercy does not leave us, and even today one may say that there is a movement of genuine Orthodoxy which consciously rejects the indifference, renovationism, and outright apostasy which are preached by the world-famous Orthodox "theologians" and "hierarchs," and also hungers for more than the "customary" Orthodoxy which is powerless before the onslaughts of a world refined in destroying souls. It is of course true that the world, saturated in Holy Orthodoxy, which produced Blessed Paisius no longer exists; and it is likewise true that the numbers of God-bearing elders whom Paisius met and produced on his path, even in an age of spiritual decline, are simply unheard of in our own days, which are surely the days of the last Christians. And yet it cannot be that the flame of truly Orthodox zeal will die out before the Second Coming of Christ; nor that if this flame exists, Christ our God will not show His zealots, even now, how to lead a true and inspired Orthodox life. In fact, the message of Blessed Paisius is addressed precisely and directly to the last Christians: in "The Scroll" he tells us that the Holy Fathers wrote their books "by the special Providence of God, so that in the Last times this Divine work would not fall into oblivion."
Do you hear, O Orthodox Christians of these last times? These writings of the Holy Fathers, even those dealing with the highest form of spiritual life, have been preserved for us, so that even when it might seem that there are no God-bearing elders left at all, we may still have the unerring words of the Holy Fathers to guide us in leading a God-pleasing and zealous life. Therefore, they are wrong who teach that, because the end of the world is at hand, we must sit still, make no great efforts, simply preserve the doctrine that has been handed down to us, and hand it back, like the buried talent of the worthless servant (Matt. 25:24-30), to our Lord at His Coming! Blessed Paisius teaches that "solely by Orthodoxy of faith, without the diligent keeping of all Christ's commandments [i.e., putting Orthodoxy into practice, with great effort], it is not at all possible to be saved." The time of the end, though it seems to be near, we do not know; however close, it is still future, and in the present we have only the same age-old fight against the unseen powers, against the world, and against our own passions, upon the outcome of which our eternal fate will be decided. Let us then struggle while it is still day, with the time and the weapons which our All-merciful God has given us!
The Life of Blessed Paisius is of special value to us because it is the Life of a Holy Father of modern times, one who lived like the ancients almost in our own day. All those deadly anti-spiritual currents which threaten now to enslave man completely godless humanism, soulless ecumenism, and the fierce Revolution that has brought them to power upon the ruins of civilization in a sea of blood—either existed already or were born in his lifetime. The spiritual climate of his times was very similar to our own; many of our own temptations were his also; a number of our most pressing questions he answered for us. This virtual contemporary of ours struggled and was gloriously crowned, and God, seeing his labors, gave to him a hundredfold of spiritual fruits which are nourishing Orthodox Christians even to this day, and revealed in him the fount in modern times of the pure tradition of Russian Orthodoxy.
The reader of this Life must be cautioned, however, against reading it too "enthusiastically". Bishop Ignatius Brianchaninov, the great 19th-century Holy Father who perhaps better than anyone else expressed the meaning of Blessed Paisius' life's work, warns us that "novices can never adapt books to their own condition, but are invariably drawn by the tendency of the book ... If a book speaks of unconditional obedience under the direction of a Spirit bearing Father, the beginner will inevitably develop a desire for the strictest life in complete submission to an Elder. God has not given to our times this way of life. But the books of the Holy Fathers describing it can influence a beginner so strongly that out of inexperience and ignorance he can easily decide to leave the place where he is living and where he has every convenience to work out his salvation and make spiritual progress ... for an impossible dream of a perfect life pictured vividly and alluringly in his imagination" (The Arena, Ch. 10).
The Life of Blessed Paisius is not meant to exalt the beginner (and we all, in our spiritually feeble 20th century, are "beginners") and make him think that he is capable of such a life; not at all. Elder Macarius of Optina, another 19th-century continuer of the work of Blessed Paisius, teaches that "the holy God-bearing Fathers wrote about great spiritual gifts not so that anyone might strive indiscriminately to receive them, but so that those who do not have them, hearing about such exalted gifts and revelations which were received by those who were worthy, might acknowledge their own profound infirmity and great insufficiency, and might involuntarily be inclined to humility, which is more necessary for those seeking salvation than all other works and virtues" (Letters to Monks, Moscow, 1862, p. 370). Four centuries earlier St. Nilus of Sora wrote, concerning the lives of holy men: "We who are burdened with many sins and preyed upon by passions are unworthy even of hearing such words. Nevertheless, placing our hope in the grace of God, we are encouraged to keep the words of the holy writings in our minds, so that we may at least grow in awareness of the degradation in which we wallow" (Monastic Rule, ch. 2). And even in the 6th century, St. John of the Ladder wrote: "Just as a pauper, seeing the royal treasures, all the more acknowledges his own poverty, so also the spirit, reading the accounts of the great deeds of the Holy Fathers, involuntarily is all the more humbled in its way of thought" (The Ladder, Step 26:25).
These are the words of the Holy Fathers of past centuries, when Orthodoxy was firmly rooted in the human soul and had transformed whole societies. How much more necessary is the humility they speak about in our spiritually uprooted and superficial 20th century!
We must, of course, continue to read Orthodox spiritual texts, such as the Life of Blessed Paisius, or we will spiritually wither and die. But we must at the same time humble ourselves and use the very height of the life described in these texts as our opportunity to "grow in awareness of our degradation," as St. Nilus so well says. We must properly apply the Life of Elder Paisius to our own spiritual condition.
Therefore, let all readers be aware:
1. There are no more elders like Paisius today. If we imagine there are, we can do irreparable harm to our souls—"imagination" being precisely one of the forms of prelest or spiritual deception. We must learn to read of his life and deeds without being able to apply them entirely to our corrupt and degraded life. At the same time, we must have respect for our spiritual fathers and elders, who at least know more than we and try their best to guide their spiritual children under almost impossible conditions. Many young people today are seeking gurus and are ready to enslave themselves to any likely candidate; but woe to those who take advantage of this climate of the times to proclaim themselves "God-bearing Elders" in the ancient tradition—they only deceive themselves and others. Any Orthodox spiritual father will frankly tell his children that the minimum of eldership that remains today is very different from what Blessed Paisius or the Optina Elders represent.
2. The type of community which Paisius guided is beyond the capabilities of our times. Bishop Ignatius said that such a way of life was not given even to his times—when Optina was at its height; and how much more has Orthodox life fallen since then! Such a "heaven on earth'' could not exist today, not just because there are no God-bearing Elders to guide it, but because even if there were, the spiritual level of those who would follow is too impossibly low. Ours is the age of spiritual fakery par excellence, not of the ancient Spirit-bearing life. The Abbot of any Orthodox monastery today will tell you the same.
But let us therefore learn to make maximum use of the limited opportunities we do have (which still, after all, are "heaven on earth" if compared to the worldly life of today!), not demolishing our few remaining Orthodox communities with self-centered and idle criticism, nor unsettling ourselves and others by dreams of impossibly perfect communities.
3. Our times, above all, call for humble and quiet labors, with love and sympathy for other strugglers on the path of the Orthodox spiritual life and a deep resolve that does not become discouraged because the atmosphere is unfavorable. We Christians of the latter times are still called to work persistently on ourselves, to be obedient to spiritual fathers and authorities, to lead an orderly life with at least a minimum of spiritual discipline and with regular reading of the Orthodox spiritual literature which Blessed Paisius was chiefly responsible for handing down to our times, to watch over our own sins and failings and not judge others. If we do this, even in our terrible times, we may have hope—in God's mercy—of the salvation of our souls. Perhaps the chief function of the Life of Blessed Paisius for us today is to give us the courage to endure the frightful anti-spiritual climate of our times; for as our Saviour has warned us, even in the last times when "the love of the many shall grow cold," he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matt. 24:13).
The Life of Elder Paisius which we here present was written by his own disciples, chiefly by Schema-monk Metrophanes of Niamets Monastery, and was published in its present form exactly 125 years ago (1847) by the God-bearing Elders of Optina Monastery as the first of the texts of the veritable patristic revival which they inspired in 19th-century Russia. It is much to be preferred to the 20th-century biography* in that it gives not only the facts of the Elder's life, but more importantly, the very savor of his struggles. It is itself a patristic text capable of guiding and inspiring the Orthodox believer today.
*Archpriest Sergy Chetverikov, The Moldavian Elder, Schema-Archimandrite Paisius Velichkovsky, two volumes, Petseri, Estonia, 1938. In the text below some passages (indicated in the footnotes) have been added to the original Life from this source, particularly where the words of Elder Paisius himself have been quoted. The author did research at Niamets Monastery and was thus able to use manuscripts written by Paisius himself; his whole tone and approach, however, are those of the worldly 20th century, and he does not do justice to the spiritual message of Blessed Paisius.
Taken from the Introduction to Blessed Paisius Velichkovsky, by Schema-monk Metrophanes, trans. by Fr. Seraphim Rose (St. Herman of Alaska Brotherhood, 1994 [1976]). Also mentioned in the book are the writings of Elder Basil—St. Paisius’ spiritual father. At the time of printing these were not available in English. Fortunately, Elder Basil’s writings were recently published by St. John of Kronstadt Press, making available for the first time in English some very important introductory works on the spiritual life.
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This paragraph from The Arena, by St. Ignaty (Brianchaninov) is also apropos of this Introduction:
"Monastic obedience in the form and character in which it was practised by the monks of old is a lofty spiritual mystery. Its attainment and full imitation has become impossible for us. We can only examine it reverently and intelligently and appropriate its spirit. We show right judgment and evince salutary intelligence when, in reading about the rules and experiences of the ancient Fathers and of their obedience—equally amazing both in the directors and in those who were being directed—we see at the present time a general decline of Christianity and recognize that we are unfit to inherit the legacy of the Fathers in its fullness and in all its abundance. And it is a great mystery of God, a great blessing for us, that it is left to us to feed on the crumbs that fall from the spiritual table of the Fathers. These crumbs are not the most satisfying food, but they can prevent spiritual death, though not without a feeling of need and hunger and nostalgia." (p. 47)
Anniversary of the Repose of Metropolitan Philaret - 11/21/12
On Wednesday November 21st on the feast of Archangel Michael a litia was served at the end of the divine liturgy at the grave of the ever memorable Metropolitan Philaret, it being the anniversary of his blessed repose. Also Protopresbyter Michael Pomazansky was commemorated at the litia
Update on Hieromonk Gabriel of Holy Trinity Monastery - 11/20/12
Dear Friends and Supporters of Holy Trinity Monastery!
On November 9, 2012 Father Gabriel, his lawyer, and I went to Buffalo to the court hearing assigned for his case. At the hearing, Homeland Security indicated to the court that it was willing to administratively close the case. The file prepared by the law firm was so thorough that an overwhelming impression was conveyed concerning Father Gabriel's importance for our community. We are deeply grateful for all of your support and prayers in our time of need.
God bless you for your labors!
Archimandrite Luke Abbot
We especially want to express our gratitude to the law firm Bibicheff & Associates, P.C., Brooklyn NY, for their utmost professionalism and heartfelt attention without which such a successful outcome could hardly have been possible!
On Wednesday November 14 there will be a moleben and Akathist to the Kursk Root icon in Slavonic after compline around 8:15PM in the Church of St. Job of Pochaev.
On Thursday, November 15 there will be a moleben and Akathist to the Kursk Root Icon in English at 6PM
Location: Holy Trinity Monastery, 1407 Robinson Road, Jordanville, 13361 NY
Brand: SCHULMERICH, Electric Carillons Machine.
Model: CAST BELL (1989)
Serial No: 13592
Description: Since the installment of the Electric Carillons Machine, Holy Trinity Monastery used it only on few occasions accommodating the 15 bells in the bell-tower. The bells varying in size from approx 5 tonne's to 15 kilograms were molded to suit the practice of the long standing Russian Orthodox tradition of bells. However, the machine did not meet the rhythm when came to the ever exhilarating ringing of the same tradition. In terms of usage, the machines is as good as new with all parts in tact and ready for pick up. There are 23 different size clappers to accommodate 15 bells, played by a electric piano. The machines also has a cassette player dictating the rhythm with a choice of various speeds (please consider the attachments for assessing the items).
His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of Eastern America and New York celebrated his patronal feastday at Holy Trinity Monastery on Saturday November 3. It was an honor for the brothehood of Holy Trinity Monastery to have His Eminence Hilarion serve at the Monastery which he dearly loves. It was at Holy Trinity Monastery that His Eminence begun his monastic life spending a total of 17 years in monastic struggles before being called to the archpastoral service to the Church. After the Divine Liturgy a reception was help at the office of the Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery, Archimandrite Luke where monastics, seminarians and neighbors greeted His Eminence on his names day.
On Thursday November 1 on the feast day of St. John of Kronstadt Archimandrite Luke served Liturgy at the chapel of St John of Kronstadt and St. John of Rila which is situated in a remote wooded area of the monastery next to a lake.
On Wednesday October 28 the Church commemorated the memory of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, the patron saint of the abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery. A small reception was held to congragulate Archimandrite Luke on his names day. Also on this occasion the brotherhood and seminarians said goodbye to Hieromonk Roman who is leaving.
Commemoration of 15th Anniversary of death of Brother Joseph, 30th Anniversary of Appearance of Iveron Icon and 5th Anniversary of the Hawaian Myrrh Streaming Icon - 10/27/12
On Saturday October 27 and Sunday 28th 2012 the 15th Anniversary of the martyric death of Brother Joseph Munoz-Cortes (+October 31,1997), the 30th Anniversary of Appearance of Iveron Icon (Nov. 24, 1982) and the 5th Anniversary of the Hawaian Myrrh Streaming Icon (Oct. 6,2007) were commemorated at Holy Trinity Monastery. His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion along with many pilgrims from the St John of Baptist Parish in Washington and other places marked these anniversaries by serving pannykhidas at the grave site of Brother Joseph, praying infront of the Hawaian myrrh streaming icon and taking part in the services of the monastery.
Moleben on October 29 cancelled and rescheduled for Thursday November 1 6PM - 10/23/12
Due to the increasing concern of our extended monastery community about the negative moral and spiritual direction of the USA on Oct 29 in the lower church of St. Job of Pochaev will be served a moleben for this country, its authorities and armed forces and all those who with faith and piety live here
In an effort to help the seminarians of Holy Trinity Seminary in matters of practical theology a number of talks were scheduled tha past two weeks with His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, Protopresbyter Valerie Lukianov and Archpriest Yaroslav Belikow. A fuller report about the talks will appaer on the site of Holy Trinity Seminary.
Online Petition to help Rev. Father Gabriel stay in the United States - 09/17/12
September 1, 2012
There is a distinct possibility one of our fathers here at Holy Trinity Monastery could be deported due to difficulties with Immigration and Naturalization authorities.
Rev. Father Hieromonk Gabriel is of great value to our monastery. It would be a huge loss and tragic if he were forced to leave.
On Sunday, September 9 at the end of the vigil to St. Job of Pochaev Novice Victor Nosov was tonsured a Riassophore Monk by the Monastery Abbott Archimandrite Luke. Fr. Luke wished Fr. Victor patience in his monastic struggles and to love the services. At the end of the Liturgy a moleben with a procession of the Cross and the Kursk icon was served to St. Job of Pochaev.
Sermon by Archimandrite Luke
On the feast of St. Job
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ
Today we celebrate the memory of the great struggler and confessor of the Russian land, St. Job of Pochaev. St Job acquired the grace of the Holy Spirit and was sanctified. But as is understood by all Orthodox Christians there is no sanctifying grace of the Holy Spirit outside the church. St. Job lived during the dangerous time of an assault by Roman Catholics on Orthodox Christians in the region of Galicia and Volynia. St. Job with his whole soul began by preaching, printing books, and participating in church councils to save Orthodox Christians from the terrible sin of apostasy. The temptation was hidden but insidious. It was easy for Orthodox Christians to be deceived. Initially the Roman Catholics only demanded that the Orthodox commemorate the Pope of Rome at their church services, but the struggler understood that this was enough for the damnation of the soul.
St. Job heroically resisted this temptation. The Russian Church Abroad from its inception considered St. Job the patron of its missionary activities. Especially here in our monastery St. Job is glorified were we strive to worthily venerated him and follow in his footsteps. Unfortunately much of the Orthodox world now does not reacted to temptation like St. Job.
Now Orthodox leaders seek a false reconciliation with heresy. Scandalous documents allure Orthodox Christians where they write that the Orthodox and heretics have the same faith, the same baptism and the same Lord. If this is true then St. Job was mistaken. But this cannot be so. For him, true love for one's neighbor meant union with the Church and to save Orthodox Christians from apostasy, but never to reconcile them with heresy.
We cannot act contrary to the legacy of St. Job, if we truly seek salvation. Let St. Job be forever an example for us of true love for one's neighbor and a firm stance in the Orthodox faith!
On Wednesday, September 5, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, His Eminence Hilarion, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, led the funeral of the newly departed Archimandrite Flor (Vanko), a longtime cleric of Holy Trinity Monastery. His Eminence was co-served by the Administrator of the Chicago & Mid-American Diocese, His Grace Bishop Peter of Cleveland, His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop George of Mayfield, and a multitude of diocesan clergy.
In his eulogy, Protodeacon Victor Lochmatow spoke of Fr. Flor’s life and legacy, as the last of the monks to have emigrated to the United States from Ladomirová, the original home of Holy Trinity’s monastic brotherhood.
After the funeral, the priests carried the coffin around the cathedral, and then to the monastic cemetery behind the cathedral, where the burial was held.
The editors of the official website of the Eastern American Diocese express their sincerest condolences to the brethren of Holy Trinity Monastery, asking that everyone please keep the newly reposed in their prayers, especially in the first 40 days after his passing.
This morning around 5am Archimandrite Flor reposed in the Lord at Holy Trinity Monastery. We ask for your prayers for his soul.
The
funeral for Fr. Flor will be held on Wednesday September 5, 1pm at the
monastery cathedral. His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion will be
presiding at the funeral service.
Archimandrite Flor Reposed in the Lord on September 4 - 09/04/12
The Very Rev. Archimandrite Flor was born Vassily Vanko on December 9, 1926 in the village of Shemetkovtsi in Czechoslovakia. He joined the monastery at Ladomirova at a young age. With the coming of the communists in 1944, he was evacuated together with the brotherhood through Bratislava, Berlin and Geneva. He arrived as a novice to Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville New York in 1946. He was tonsured a rassaphore monk together with his close friend the novice Vassily Skurla (the future First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad) on March 28, 1947. They received the names Flor and Laurus, in honor of the martyr brothers. The next day, on the feast of the Laudation of the Most Holy Theotokos, they were tonsured readers and subdeacons. On the first week of Great Lent in 1948, they both were tonsured stavrophore monks together with Rassaphore Monk Alypy Gamanovich (now Archbishop of Chicago). Fr. Flor was ordained a hierodeacon on September 11, 1950 on the feast of St. John the Baptist. He was ordained a hieromonk on June 28, 1954. All his tonsures and ordinations were performed by the abbot of the monastery Archbishop Vitaly (Maximenko) of blessed memory. He was raised to the rank of abbot/igumen in 1967 and archimandrite in 1996. In 2007 for his many years of service to the Church, he was given the high honor of wearing 2 pectoral crosses, but, in keeping with his humility, he never wore them. Fr. Flor selflessly kept his difficult monastic obediences as the monastery electrician and handyman. He could always be found in the fields or the cemetery driving the heavy farm equipment. He would also always be found at the church services which he zealously attended. Summer boys and seminarians loved working with him. He was a man of great humility and always shunned the spotlight. Although he was very modest his presence was great. Archimandrite Flor fell asleep in the Lord on September 4, around 5am, 2012. May God grant him eternal life in his kingdom.
The funeral will be held at Holy Trinity Monastery on September 5, 1PM. His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion will be presiding at the service with His Grace Bishop George of Mayfield. Please bring blue vestments.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary Convocation September 12, 2012;
2 - 4 pm Dedicated to the 100thyear anniversary of the second edition to
Antoniades’ Patriarchal Greek New Testament
Program
·Opening Prayer Fr. Luke3 min
·Biblical Readings of the Day in Greek
& Old Church Slavonic Students10 min
·Introduction – The Antoniades Text
and its reception Dr. Adamou20 min
·The Byzantine Tradition of the Greek
New Testament & the work of Antoniades Dr. Maurice Arthur Robinson60
min
·The
Greek text of NT in the Fathers of the Church Dr. Fr. Dragas30 min
·Distribution
of the 100th year Anniversary edition of the Greek New Testament to the
students5 min
Annual Labor Day Celebrations in Honor of St. Job of Pochaev were held in Holy Trinity Monastery - 09/02/12
Every year in September, on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend, Holy Trinity Monastery triumphantly celebrates the memory of its heavenly intercessor, Venerable St. Job of Pochaev. This year, the celebration of St. Job took place on September 1st and 2nd.
On Saturday, on the eve of the feast, a gathering of diocesan youth undertook to establish a new tradition: beginning with a short moleben in Holy Trinity Cathedral, about 25 young people, led by diocesan secretary Archpriest Serge Lukianov, Protodeacon Joseph Matusiak (cleric of Three Hierarchs Chapel OCA in Crestwood, NY), and Fr. Ephraim Willmarth (monastery cleric), set off in procession around the monastery property. The famous Jordanville Cross marked the midway point of the five-mile procession, where the Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation was served, in honor of the Church New Year (September 1 on the new calendar). Upon their return to the monastery, the pilgrims were greeted by His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop George of Mayfield, who thanked the youth for the spiritual labor they had undertaken, and expressed his hope that this tradition might continue in the future.
Later that day, the clergy and worshipers who had gathered at the main cathedral set off for the monastery cemetery to the Dormition Church to greet the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God. Upon returning to the main cathedral, Bishop George led the faithful in singing the akathist to the great God-pleaser St. Job before the icons of the Pochaev Mother of God, the Kursk Root Mother of God, and St. Job. That evening, the All-Night Vigil was served.
On Sunday morning, the early Liturgy was celebrated in Holy Trinity Cathedral’s lower Church of St. Job of Pochaev. The festal Divine Liturgy in the upper church was celebrated by His Grace, Bishop George, co-served by monastery and visiting clergy. After the Eucharistic Canon, Subdeacon Monk Seraphim (Nikoloski) was ordained to the diaconate. The newly ordained Hierodeacon Seraphim will fulfill his service at Holy Trinity Monastery. Upon completion of the Liturgy, a moleben with procession around the cathedral was served. After the service, Bishop George greeted Fr. Luke and his co-brothers and all of the faithful on the occasion of the feast and thanked everyone for their prayerful participation in the feast of St. Job of Pochaev.
After Liturgy, a festal luncheon was held for all of the monastery guests. On behalf of His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, Fr. Serge Lukianov greeted the abbot, Fr. Luke, and the monastery brethren, and presented Fr. Luke a framed group photograph from the Autumnal Diocesan Clergy Conference, held last October in Holy Trinity Monastery.
His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion will be at Holy Trinity Monastery from Aug 19 - Aug 21. On Monday August 20 a pannikhida will be served by Metropolitan Hilarion at the grave of Archimandre Vladimir straight after lunch around 12:30PM.
Everyone is invited to spend the last civil holiday of the summer at Holy Trinity Monastery for a spiritual retreat. His Grace Bishop George will serve at the Monastery on Labor Day weekend. Please inform us if a group of more than ten people is coming from a parish.
Saturday September 1
3PM Procession to cemetery. Moleben and Akathist to St Job in main cathedral followed by the Rule for Holy Communion
7PM Vigil
Sunday September 2
6 AM Early Liturgy 9AM Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 6PM Vespers 7PM Supper 7:30 Compline
Monday September 3
5 AM Midnight Office and Matins 8:30 AM Divine Liturgy
Please inform us if a group of more than ten people is coming from a parish.
25th Anniversary at St. Elizabeth Skete in Jordanville, NY - 07/18/12
It was a long awaited event that the sisters at St Elizabeth Skete have been planning for several months. On July 18th, 2012 on the feast of the New Martyrs Grand Duchess Elizabeth and Nun Barbara the sisters not only celebrated 25 years of the existence of the small community of nuns, but also the elevation of Mother Elizabeth to the rank of Abbess.
The event started at 5:00 pm on the evening of Tuesday July 17th with the All-Night Vigil. As the remodeling of the small house chapel was not complete, several tents were set up in the garden amidst the flowers for outdoor services. Bishop Gabriel presided together with Archimandrite Luke, the sisters spiritual father and also Father Vladimir Tsurikov the Sketes serving priest. They were joined by Father Chad Williams from Richmond Maine and Father Gabriel from Holy Trinity Monastery. Proto Deacon Nicholai Olhovsky, Deacon Andrew Doubleday and Deacon Ephraim Willmarth lead the service, which was in both Slavonic and English.
The next morning services started with the Blessing of the Waters at 8:00 am, followed by Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am. Bishop Gabriel arrived and the Hours were read while the Bishop was vested. The dark grey menacing clouds dispersed after dropping a few sprinkles of rain, and the sun began to shine brilliantly. The choir consisted of Mother Elisabeth, Mother Theodora, Matushka Cindy Williams from Maine, all under the superb direction of Matushka Anna Tsurikov.
During the Small Entrance, Protodeacon Nicholai led Mother Elisabeth from the choir to the middle of the church to Bishop Gabriel. He read the prayers, which elevated Mother Elisabeth to the rank of Abbess. It was a solemn moment, and followed by a very joyful Axios! Mother Elisabeth returned to the choir and the liturgy continued.
Divine Liturgy was followed by a procession and Molieben to the Saint. One of the litanies was intoned in the unfinished chapel. Amidst the construction material there were flowers and an analoy with the icon of St Elizabeth the New Martyr. The procession returned and just before the venerating of the cross, Mother Elisabeth was once more led to Bishop Gabriel who handed her the Abbess Staff and read the instructions from the Book of Needs which is to guide both Mother Elisabeth in her new responsibilities and the sisters in their responsibilities to their new Spiritual Mother.
All guests were invited to share in the festal trapeza following the liturgy. Everyone helped in dismantling the church and setting up the tables for the meal. Lunch was a happy and leisurely meal, enjoyed by everyone.
Abbess Elisabeth and the sisters are grateful to God that the weather was perfect, and the gardens were so beautiful. They are also grateful to all the clergy and friends who came to share in their joy and ask for their prayers that God may continue to help the new Abbess Elisabeth and the Skete to prosper and grow to the Glory of God.
On Thursday, July 12 (June 29 o.s.), Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated the Feast of Ss. Peter and Paul. Archimandrite Luke and the brotherhood clergy celebrated the vigil and liturgy. Participants in the Summer Youth Program helped serve in the altar as well as prepare food for the trapeza meal for the visiting Russian Scouts (ORUR) who attended the Divine Liturgy.
Holy Spirit Day at Holy Trinity Monastery - June 4 2012 - 06/04/12
On Monday, June 4, on the Feast of the Holy Spirit, annual festivities were held in Jordanville, New York for the feast day of Holy Trinity Monastery. Although the monastery’s feast day is actually held the day before, on Trinity Sunday, many clergy and faithful have begun coming to Jordanville the following day, having marked the Pentecost in their home parishes. This year, five years after the Reunification of the two parts of the Russian Church, for the first time, divine services were led by the Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, Archbishop Justinian of Naro-Fominsk. His Eminence was co-served by His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop George of Mayfield, monastery abbot Archimandrite Luke (Murianka), as well as clergy of the Moscow Patriarchate and the Church Abroad. After the Great Entrance, Bishop George ordained Subdeacon Ephraim Willmarth to the diaconate. The newly ordained Deacon Ephraim will temporarily fulfill his service at Holy Trinity Monastery. Also serving at the Divine Liturgy was Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev, renowned Russian theologian and professor at the Moscow Theological Academy. During the communion of the clergy, Fr. Andrei addressed those gathered with a sermon on the significance of the feast. Upon completion of the Liturgy, Archbishop Justinian addressed Bishop George, Fr. Luke, and the gathered faithful with the following words:  "This day I prayed with particular joy. For me, this day was not only liturgically triumphant, but, I admit, particularly touched my heart; at times I even withdrew my attention from all that was going on around me, and delighted in the warmth in my heart. I felt that I was truly in the midst of loved ones, heartfelt people with whom I shared one faith. My prayer was in no way impeded, in no way fractured, and I am grateful to God, grateful to His Eminence, Metropolitan Hilarion, that I was able to accept the hospitable invitation of Archimandrite Luke and come here with my fellow travelers, in order to share in the triumphal patronal feast of this holy habitation, to speak works of gratitude and acknowledgement to Fr. Luke, the abbot of this monastery, the brethren, and all those faithful helpers at the monastery who labor even unto this hour to keep her adorned, to lift up their prayers to God, and to preserve the best traditions of the Russian Orthodox Church. You and I understand that our country, our homeland, suffered much in her time precisely because traditions were lost. The Revolution of 1917 brought much suffered to our homeland. It is important that, going forward, we take away from this lessons, that our hearts are never inclined toward a path of abrupt changes in our lives, be they our social lives or our lives in the Church – for this is of the Evil One. "It is proper to offer up words of gratitude to the founders of this holy habitation, those who lived, prayed, and labored here, helping this monastery continue its existence, for the sake of preserving the traditions of the Russian Orthodox Church. You and I must understand, that although our society is advancing technologically, nevertheless we must admit that little of it constitutes true progress for human society. Mankind moves further and further away from Christ, when it is Christ Himself who is our icon, our ideal, Whom we must revere and after Whom we must follow. We cannot reassure ourselves with empty words, saying that we will be self-enlightened, self-fulfilled, that we will undertake some form of action that will bring us greater progress than we would achieve in Christ. Once and for all, mankind has been given an ideal – the Godman, Christ the Savior. No one on earth can ever accomplish that which was accomplished by Christ the Savior. It is thither, to Christ, whither we must cast our gaze, that we might never comfort ourselves with empty rhetoric about self-realization, self-perfection, that somehow this might become our true goal. The life’s goal of any conscientious Christian must be the acquisition of the Holy Spirit, as we were taught by St. Seraphim of Sarov. This is accomplished by repentance and a feeling of one’s great humility before God.  "You and I recall the following Patristic principle, which states that in great things we ought to have oneness of mind, consensus and unanimity, in the least things we ought to have freedom, but in all things we must have love. And if we will live by Patristic principles, then we will live in the love revealed to us by the Divine Trinity, for the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit so love One Another, and live so deeply in one accord, one will, and one power, that is proper for us to always look to this mystery of Divine Trinitarian love, being informed and enlightened by It. It is a true example for you and me to follow. "I thank you, Your Grace, Bishop George, Fr. Luke, brethren-concelebrants, for this triumph, this bountiful feast of the faith, in which I communed of God’s mercy and of your love. May this beauty, the memory of this, warm our hearts, because feasts end, and we must return to our obediences, but such feasts lift up our souls. They give us a grace-filled and spiritual impetus to continue living some time in joy, laboring and looking at this world with joy and hope, fearing nothing and no one but the Lord God. The Lord keep you, and I thank you, my dears, for this feast of our Orthodox Faith."
Source: "Eastern American Diocese www.eadiocese.org."
Sunday of Pentecost at Holy Trinity Monastery 2012 - 06/03/12
On June 3, Holy Trinity Monastery celebrated its main feast day of Pentecost. Bishop George of Mayfield served the liturgy with the brotherhood clergy. After the Divine Liturgy was the customary Kneeling Vespers and then lunch in the refectory followed by a reception in the main courtyard for all the pilgrims.
Joining in the celebration were pilgrims from all around the country, including a group of over twenty young people who had traveled to the monastery for a special pilgrimage over the weekend. The youth helped with preparations for the feast and also participated in spiritual discussions.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary held its Sixty-Fourth Annual Commencement on Sunday, May 27, 2012. The ceremonies began at two o’clock in the afternoon with a Thanksgiving Moleben served by Archimandrite Luke and the Monastery Clergy in the monastery church. The clergy, faculty, and students then processed to the Seminary Hall for the Commencement.
The ceremony began with the Russian and American national anthems, sung by the Holy Trinity Seminary Choir under the direction of third-year student Nicholas Kotar.
Archimandrite Luke, the Rector and Acting Dean, gave an opening address in Russian encouraging the graduating students to continue their progress in learning: “Never forget your books. Continue always to find the time to further your knowledge…Quench not the Spirit!” Fr. Luke then introduced Archimandrite Meletios Webber, the commencement speaker. Fr. Meletios is the abbot of St. John of San Francisco Orthodox Monastery (OCA) in Manton, California. Fr. Meletios gave an engrossing talk on asceticism and its absolute necessity in spiritual life. He called upon the audience to look upon asceticism in a positive sense, as “training the body for glory.”
Following the commencement address, Fr. Luke awarded diplomas to graduating students. Five students received the Bachelor of Theology: Dimitrii Anopochkin (Cum Laude), Ivan Denisenko, German Gatyskii, Evgenii Poznyak, and Sergei Tuygin (Cum Laude). Reader Matthew Long received certificates for successfully completing the Correspondence Program in Theological Studies.
Top students in each class then received awards: Aleksandr Brooks in first year; John Martin in second year; Nicholas Kotar in third year; Anthony Williams in fourth year; and Dimitrii Anopochkin and Sergei Tuygin in fifth year. For academic excellence first-year students Aleksandr Brooks and Stanislav Matveev received stipends of $700 and $300 respectively, courtesy of Michael Andreev of the Jordanville Monument Company.
Sergei Tuygin then made a valedictory speech expressing his heartfelt gratitude for his experiences at Holy Trinity Seminary. Following his words, Fr. Luke closed the ceremony with prayer. After Commencement, all gathered on the lawn for refreshments.
On Saturday, May 19, 2012, Holy Trinity Monastery held its first Open House. From two to five in the afternoon, over two hundred people, most of them non-Orthodox, came from local areas in order to get to know their monastic neighbors.
Archimandrite Luke, the abbot of the monastery, welcomed the guests and did a presentation on this history of the Orthodox Church. Hieromonk Roman then gave the second presentation on the history of the monastery, from its humble beginnings to the present day. Talking about the monastery’s publishing work during the Cold War, he said, “Elderly priests in Russia would come up to me and say, ‘You’re from Jordanville? We survived on your books!’ Our name is great in Russia. But over here, we’re just another cow town.” After the presentations, Father Luke and Father Roman fielded questions from the visitors.
After a short break with refreshments, the visitors then gathered at the monastery church, where fourth-year student Anthony Williams gave them a tour. Many of the people visiting expressed their appreciation and hoped to visit again.
Pannykhida for Patriach Alexey and Metropolitan Laurus on the Fifth Anniversary of the Reunification of ROCOR and MP - Photo Report May 17 2012 - 05/17/12
Pannikhida for Metropolitan Laurus - May 16 12:30PM - 05/05/12
Encyclical
To all clergy of the Eastern American Diocese
As
we approach the fifth anniversary of the signing of the Act of
Canonical Communion between the Moscow Patriarchate and Russian
Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, our hearts are filled with joy
and thanksgiving to the Lord for granting unity to our Church.
Since the joint pastoral conference of Diocesan and Patriarchal
clergy has been postponed to October 11-13, solemn services in honor
of the fifth anniversary will be held on May 16th and 17th
at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY and St. Nicholas
Patriarchal Cathedral in New York City.
On Wednesday, May 16th, on the eve of the anniversary, a
panihida will be held at the tomb of Metropolitan Laurus in Holy
Trinity Monastery at 12:30 PM. This will be a special time for us to
remember our beloved Vladyka, and also His Holiness Patriarch Alexey
II, and to thank them for their efforts in reuniting our
long-suffering Church. The panihida will be led by the Administrator
of Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, His Eminence Justinian,
Archbishop of Naro-Fominsk, co-served by His Grace George, Bishop of
Mayfield, His Grace Jerome, Bishop of Manhattan, and clergy of the
Moscow Patriarchate and ROCOR.
The following morning, May 17th, the Divine Liturgy will
be served in St. Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral by the
above-mentioned clergy. The greeting of the bishop will begin at
10:00 AM; clergy are asked to arrive by 9:30 AM and to bring their
own white vestments. After the Liturgy, a festal banquet will be
held in the cathedral hall.
All diocesan clergy and their faithful are invited and encouraged to
attend these services. Those who cannot make it to New York City are
asked to serve either a Divine Liturgy or Thanksgiving moleben on
May 17th. God willing, I will be in Moscow at that time,
celebrating the fifth anniversary with His Holiness, Patriarch
Kyrill.
Please accept my most sincere congratulations on this joyous fifth
anniversary. May the Lord continue to bestow His rich and abundant
mercies on our Holy Church and Her faithful.
With
love
in
Christ,
+HILARION
Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York First Hierarch of the Russian
Orthodox Church Outside of Russia
Open House at Holy Trinity Monastery - April 19 2:00 - 5:00 PM - 05/03/12
Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, invites all those interested to experience its Open House on Saturday, May 19, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. Guests will be able to learn about the history of Russian Orthodox icons on a tour of the monastery church and grounds, as well as view two slideshows: one about the Orthodox Church and one on the history of the monastery.
Holy Trinity Monastery Open House - May 19 2-5PM - 05/02/12
Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, invites all those interested to experience its Open House on Saturday, May 19, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. Guests will be able to learn about the history of Russian Orthodox icons on a tour of the monastery church and grounds, as well as view two slideshows: one about the Orthodox Church and one on the history of the monastery.
Talks by Fr Peter Heers at Holy Trinity Monastery - Photo Report April 27 2012 - 04/26/12
On Friday April 27 Fr Peter Heers gave a talk on "Baptism and the Church: An Orthodox Analysis of the Ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council". The talk included an historical-theological review of the path taken to arrive at the new ecclesiology of Vatican II as well as a theological analysis and critique of the new ecclesiology. Fr Peter discussed the historical background of the council, its stated aims, and the theologians who were behind the decrees. The following questions were addressed: How does the new ecclesiology of Vatican II differ from the Orthodox, patristic view of the Church? Is the new ecclesiology a return to the ancient Western view of Baptism and the Church expounded by Blessed Augustine, as is claimed by some? Does the Orthodox Church share the same view as Vatican II and recognize as her own the Baptism of schismatics or heretics? What is the consensus patrum?The second talk was on "The Message of Elder Paisios for Orthodox Christians in America Today" upon the occasion of the release of the long awaited publication of the life of Elder Paisios.
Sermon by Archimandrite Luke on Holy Friday Vespers
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ!
It is finished — exclaimed Our Saviour, and thus He accomplished His salvific sufferings.
Suffering
came into the world because of the first sin, and sin became the wall
of separation between God and man depriving us of a blessed state and
the Kingdom of Heaven. Man by his own devices could never heal his
fallen soul, and thus we confess and believe that the Son of God was
incarnate in order to redeem us and deliver us from our sinful and
pitiful state. He became one of us to correct that which we spoiled, and
in order to renew that which was darkened.
Suffering is always
with us, and man is constantly preoccupied with the question of
suffering —mainly how to avoid it. We modern people on a daily basis
invent new means in order to avoid reality, and the reality of our life
is frequently filled with various sorrows. One can only be amazed at the
multitude of various ever-increasing distractions and new medications
appearing to assuage psychological burdens.
We tremble when we
recall the terrible spiritual struggle of our Lord in the Garden of
Gethsemane, when He, by means of His divine vision, foresaw those
sufferings incomprehensible for us which He voluntary and with love was
to take upon Himself so that we might return to paradise.He overcame all
difficulties, and even on the Cross He refused to alleviate His pain.
And in all of this we can conclude that suffering is an inescapable fact
of life. But what is its significance? And what can we as Orthodox
Christians do? What should be our attitude to such an unavoidable
phenomenon?
The answer lies before us in the tomb. Our Lord
accepted the inescapability of suffering as the central redemptive
struggle of His life, and we must accept suffering as an inescapable
fact and surrender to it. Even this humble submission to an extent
relieves our sorrowful state of soul. Our Lord also showed that it is
extremely important to have a God-pleasing disposition of heart towards
suffering. In spite of the fact, that He is surrounded by hatred,
ill-will, intrigues, treachery, ingratitude, and lack of understanding,
none the less His love remains unshakeable. He preserves and defends His
love with the words: “God forgive them”. And thus He crowns His
redeeming struggle of love.
Genuine spirituality like true
friendship demands great attention, nurturing and support. Without this
our soul, like a rare flower wilts and dies. Only a firm spiritual
state, without complaining, without bitterness and hard-heartedness can
assist us in overcoming all sorrows and suffering sent to us for our
cleansing and correction. A living witness and example of a God-pleasing
attitude towards suffering is the Mother of God, who is present in Her
icon, Softening of Evil Hearts or Seven swords. Without complaint, She
stood by the Cross and grave of Her Son, despite Her horrendous anguish.
She took no offense at the torturers and did not become hard-hearted,
quite the opposite. Her heart expanded, became softer and spiritually
She achieved even greater perfection.
Dear brothers and sisters, I
have spoken here only briefly about the inescapability of sufferings,
but we must further continually and deeply nurture within ourselves a
God-pleasing and good-hearted attitude towards sorrows, which the
all-wise Lord sends for our correction. It is a terrible thing to live
with a darkened, gloomy, heart. Our Lord summons us to soften and
cleanse our evil hearts. And only with a purified and soft heart can we
like the Mother of God, inherit eternal blessedness. Amen.
Talks by Fr. Peter Heers at Holy Trinity Monastery (In English) - Friday April 27 4 -7PM - 04/06/12
Holy Trinity Monastery will be hosting two talks by Father Peter Heers. The talks will be held at the Hall of Holy Trinity Seminary
Friday April 27 2012, 4 – 7 PM
The Message of the Elder Paisios for Orthodox Christians in America Today
This talk will introduce the life, spiritual personality and teaching of one of the greatest elders of the 20th century. Issues which are especially important for Orthodox in America will be touched upon, such as: the Church in the modern world, the Elder's encounters with religions of the world: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Heterodoxy, our responsibility to stand for truth in society, human justice vs. divine justice, philotimo vs. egotism, and spiritual heroism, among others. Also, two letters written by the elder which have been circulated in Greece, but which have remained unpublished and untranslated into English, will be discussed. The aim of the lecture will be to both introduce the new biography and assist the faithful in understanding the challenges of the times and the Church's proper response to these. Fr. Peter will be speaking to us upon the occasion of the release of the long-awaited publication of the definitive "Life" of Elder Paisios. Copies of the new book will be available at the lecture.
Coffee break for 20 minutes followed by the second talk below
Baptism and the Church: An Orthodox Analysis of The Ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council
This talk will include an historical-theological review of the path taken to arrive at the new ecclesiology of Vatican II as well as a theological analysis and critique of the new ecclesiology. Our examination will include: the historical background of the council, its stated aims, the theologians who were behind the decrees, the impact of the new ecclesiology on the ecumenical movement and the Orthodox reaction to date. The questions which we will attempt to answer include: How does the new ecclesiology of Vatican II differ from the Orthodox, patristic view of the Church? Is the new ecclesiology a return to the ancient Western view of Baptism and the Church expounded by Blessed Augustine, as has been claimed? Does the Orthodox Church recognize as her own the Baptism of schismatics or heretics? What is the consensus patrum?
Biographical Note:
Fr. Peter Alban Heers is the founder and first to serve as editor of Divine Ascent, A Journal of Orthodox Faith, and the founder and current head of Uncut Mountain Press. He is a Ph.D. candidate at the Theological School of the University of Thessalonica, where he has also completed is undergraduate studies and Masters degree in Dogmatic Theology. He is the rector of the parish of the Holy Prophet Elias in Petrokerasa, a small village in the mountains outside of Thessalonica, Greece. He is co-responsible for the translation of the new "Life" of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos, by Hieromonk Isaac, which will be available for purchase at the lectures.
Tonsures to the Lesser Schema at Holy Trinity Monastery - 04/01/12
On Friday March 30 2012 after the Matins service Riassaphore monks Laurence and Dionysios were tonsured to the Lesser Schema by Archimandrite Luke. At the end of Matins they entered the Altar were they received the blessing of the Abbot and then proceeded to venerate the holy icons. During the First Hour they put on white gowns as one does when they are to be baptized and when the service finished they were led by the hieromonks of the monastery to the middle of the Church were they prostrated themselves to the ground three times during which the choir sung the sessional hymn after the Third Ode of the Canon from the Prodigal Son "Thy fatherly embrace hasten to open to me, for like the prodigal have I spent my life. Disdain not a heart now impoverished O Savior, Who hast before Thine eyes the inexpressible riches of Thy mercies. For to Thee, O Lord, in compunction I cry: Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and before Thee".
When they reached the front of the ambon the Abbot signaled them to get up and read the prayers of the tonsure and exchanged in a dialog questions and answers as to the purpose of coming to the monastic life. Below are some of the exchanges that took place:
Question: Why hast thou come hither, Brother, falling down before the Holy Altar and before this Holy Assembly? Answer: I am desirous of the life of asceticism, Reverend Father. Question: Of thine own willing mind comest thou unto the Lord? Answer: Yes, God helping me, Reverend Father. Question: Not by any necessity, or constraint? Answer: No, Reverend Father. Question: Dost thou renounce the world, and the things belonging to the world, according to the commandment of the Lord? Answer: Yes, Reverend Father. Question: Wilt thou endure all the strain tribulation belonging to the monastic life, for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake? Answer: Yes, God helping me, Reverend Father.
Fr. Laurence was tonsured with the name of St John of St. Fransisco and and Fr. Dionysios received the name of St. Seraphim of Sarov. May our Lord help the newly tonsured monks to live steadfastly their monastic vocation by a "pure and virtuous life" so that their life becomes a light to the world.
Archimandrite Luke counseled the newly tonsured monks to become imitators of the lives of the saints whose names they received and to struggle in humility enduring all afflictions for the salvation of their souls. At the end of this very moving service everyone went up to the newly tonsured monastics and greeted them with the traditional greeting, "What is your name father?" to which they replied "sinful monk John and Seraphim" and all wished them many years and God's blessing in their struggles.
A video will be posted of the tonsure in the next few day
A Panikhida is Served for Colonel Phillip Ludwell III - 03/27/12
Tuesday, March 14/27, 2012 marked the two hundred and forty fifth anniversary of the repose of Colonel Philip Ludwell III, a native of Williamsburg, Virginia, and the first known convert to Orthodoxy in the Americas. With the blessing of Archimandrite Luke, Abbot of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York, a memorial (panikhida) was served in English by Archpriest Gregory Naumenko (rector of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Rochester, New York), who teaches pastoral theology and homiletics at Holy Trinity Seminary. Responses were sung by a choir of seminarians under the direction of Reader Ephraim Willmarth,the administrative assistant to the dean of the seminary. Members of the monastic community and local Orthodox believers also joined in the prayers. Archpriest Gregory also remembered the other known Orthodox members of Colonel Ludwell’s family: his daughters Hannah, Frances and Lucy, and the latter’s husband John Paradise. A short reflection on the significance of Colonel Ludwell’s life for the Orthodox Church in Russia and the Americas, and his role in early American history, was offered by Nicholas Chapman before the commencement of the memorial.
The metrical books of the Russian Orthodox Church in London, England record that Ludwell died at his home in London at 5p.m. on March 14 O.S., 1767, having previously been confessed and received holy communion and holy unction. His funeral was served several days later in the London church. Almost 30 years earlier he had traveled from Virginia to be received at the Russian Orthodox Church in London, in 1738, several days after his twenty-second birthday.
He was blessed by the Holy Synod of the Russian Church to return to Virginia with the Holy Gifts and evidence points to the existence of a lay Orthodox community headed by him in mid-eighteenth century Williamsburg. He brought his three daughters up in the faith, and they were formally received into the Church in London in 1762. Some of their descendants also appear to have remained in the Church for several generations following Ludwell’s repose.