BISHOP MITROPHAN VISITS MISSION PARISH IN JACKSONVILLE
Jacksonville, FL - This past weekend, February 5-6, 2005, His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America visited the parish in Jacksonville, FL where he blessed this parish’s new place of worship.
His Grace first visited the community and parish of St. Petka in Orlando. Following Vespers, served by parish priest Fr. Ljubisa Brnjos, a meeting was held with the parish priest and members of the board, sworn in after Vespers. Topics discussed at the meeting varied, focusing on the progress of this small community in central Florida and the possible building of the a church on the Longwood property since the existing building is already in worn down and this would be the best time to begin such a project.
In his homily Bishop Mitrophan touched on the living examples of Christian love and mercy and then called on the people to help their brothers and sisters in Kosovo and Metohija, a plea that was issued only a few days prior to this by the Holy Synod, issuing an urgent appeal. Following the Divine Liturgy the sisters prepared a wonderful luncheon for all of their dear guests. Talking to the newly elected members of the parish Trusteeship following the lunch, Bishop suggested that they prepare themselves financially that a full time priest might be sent to them as soon as possible. The members agreed with His Grace and hope that they will be ready by the coming fall, for their Church Slava. With God’s help, therefore, our Clergy brotherhood of Florida might become bigger in the coming months, while the faithful of Jacksonville and the church will receive a pastor and leader.