HERMITAGE PARISH CELEBRATES 80TH ANNIVERSARY
Hermitage, PA - On Saturday, November 6, 2004 the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church of Hermitage, PA celebrated their eightieth anniversary. The celebration began with an evening Vespers service. Joining Fr. Milovan, the parish priest, were V. Rev. Djordje Mileusnic (St. Elijah Serbian Church in Warren, OH), Fr. David Subu (Romanian Church in Hermitage), Fr. Taras Maximtsiv (Ukrainian Church in Sharon, PA) and Fr. Igantios Apostoloupolos (Greek Church in Farrell, PA). Also attending the banquet was Fr. Dragomir Tuba (St. Archangel Michael Serbian Church, Akron, OH). Very special guests for the celebration were former parish priests Fr. Rade Merick (1980-86) and Fr. John Zdinak (1986-1991).
A formal banquet followed the Vespers service in the church hall. President of the Church-School Congregation, Mr. Bran Vuich, opened the evening's program, welcoming the many gathered faithful, thanking them for taking time to rejoice with them in their jubilee celebration. Fr. Milovan addressed the crowd afterwards, drawing on the strength and vibrance of the youth of the parish to carry it into the next 80 years and beyond. Both the former priests, Fr. Rade and Fr. John, congratulated the parishioners on the occasion of their anniversary.
The program continued with a special performance by Jedinstvo Folklore Ensamble from Pittsburgh. Musical guests Drustvo, also from Pittsburgh, provided the music for the dance that followed the program.
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary the Kolo Srpskih Sestara made a donation of $5,000 to the church, while the Isidor Bajich Choir donated $1,000.