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.