ST. NIKODIM, ARCHBISHOP OF SERBIA
DIOCESAN CHAPEL CELEBRATION
Mars, PA – On Saturday, September 9, 2006 the St. Nikodim Chapel of the Diocese of Eastern America held its annual Slava celebration. His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan of Eastern America officiated at the Holy Hierarchal Divine Liturgy, assisted by V. Rev. Nedeljko Grgurevic, V.Rev. Dragoljub Malich, V. Rev. Michael Dahulich, V. Rev. Stevan Stepanov, V.Rev. Stevo Rocknage, , V. Rev. Rodney Torbic and Rev. Dejan Obradovic. Also serving was the Bishop's deacon, Rev. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic and Rev. Deacon Zeljko Jurisic. The clergy sang the responses.
In his homily, His Grace spoke of the Serbian Orthodox tradition from the time of St.Sava of building and beautifying churches and monasteries. His Grace said the St.Nikodim Chapel existed for the beautification of the souls of the faithful coming to the Chapel. Citing the Gospel reading at the Divine Liturgy, His Grace emphasized the words of the Lord Jesus Christ to: "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."(Mt.5:16)
A highlight of the celebration was the blessing of new frescoes and icons adorning the St.Nikodim Chapel. Also, the icononastasis was expanded and completed. His Grace recognized the work of iconographers Miloje Milinkovic and Paul Adams was also recognized for the work he did on the iconastasis.
The Ritual of the Cutting of the Slava Cake followed the liturgy with honored Slava kuma Mrs. Smilja Sally Stone. A luncheon followed the service, during which His Grace thanked everyone for attending, especially their guest Fr. Michael Dahulich, Ph.D,, Dean of St. Tikhon’s Seminary in South Canaan, Pennsylvania. In his address Fr. Michael mentioned the strong tie between this seminary and the Serbian people as St. Bishop Nicholai Velimirovic had at one time served as dean of this theological institution. In fact, it was at the St. Tikhon Monastery that the holy bishop passed away in the Lord. Fr. Michael welcomed and encouraged His Grace to visit the Seminary as there are a number of Serbian students presently at the Seminary that would greatly benefit from his visit.