On Thursday, September 21^st, 2023, His Grace Bishop Irinej visited Saint Luke Serbian Orthodox Church of Washington, DC on the occasion of the Patronal Feast - Slava celebration of the local Circle of Serbian Sisters.

His Grace was joined by Bishop Isihije of Valjevo, who, together with Bishop Irinej, represented the Serbian Orthodox Church at the 75^th anniversary celebration of the founding of the Seminary in Jordanville on September 16^th - 17^th, 2023.

The festal Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Protopresbyter Dr. Vasilije Vranic, the Episcopal Dean of Washington, DC in the prayerful presence of both bishops.

After the reading of the Gospel, with the blessing of Bishop Irinej, Bishop Isihije delivered a spirited sermon on the importance of the Mother of God in the economy of salvation and the theology of the Orthodox Church. Later, Bishop Isihije also blessed the Slava offerings of the Circle of Serbian Sisters.

At the end of the Divine Liturgy, on behalf of the entire parish in Washington, DC, Fr. Vasilije expressed sincere gratitude to Bishop Irinej for his fatherly love and care which he generously shows to his flock. Wishing Bishop Irinej many years at the helm of the Eastern Diocese, Fr. Vasilije especially emphasized his delight that Bishop Irinej was present during the first Liturgy celebrated after the beautification of the church. Also welcoming His Grace Bishop Isihije, Fr. Vasilije thanked him for his hierarchical blessings and words of wisdom which he imparted during the homily.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the Circle of Serbian Sisters offered a festal luncheon to everyone gathered. This year’s Slava bread was prepared by Dr. Draginja Djurickovic Fish and her family.