PENTECOST SUNDAY – DUHOVI ДУХОВИ
Youngstown, Ohio – Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church celebrated its Krsna Slava beginning with the Divine Liturgy. His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan was assisted by parish priest V. Rev. S. Janko Rajlich, Father Deacon Milan Medakovich, and Father Deacon Dragoslav Kosic. During the Pentecostal service, parishioners kneeled and weaved wreaths and made crosses from grass spread throughout the church as three prayers were read. The green grass symbolizes Spring and new life which represents the Apostles after being enlightened by the Holy Spirit. A procession was led around the church. The blessing of the Slavski Kolac and traditional banquet took place in the Holy Trinity Serbian Memorial Hall across the street from the church. Responses were sung by the Holy Trinity Choir under the direction of Mrs. Olga Tatalovich.
His Grace spoke of the significance of Pentecost and compared the Apostles before they received the Holy Spirit to a seed without soil, water, and other nourishment, unable to germinate and grow. After receiving the Holy Spirit they gained the strength, knowledge, and courage to spread the word of our Lord Jesus Christ - Christianity.
Serving as Kumovi were Mrs. Mary Shirilla and her son, Mr. George Shirilla. Mary was grateful and spoke of her love toward God, her church, family, and friends. Also honored during the banquet were graduating College and High School students. Charlie Tepsic, Brittany Danilov, John Lyras, and Derek Cosic were presented with a blessed Holy Bible (high school) or Icon of their Patron Saint (college) by Father John and Church board president Mr. George Mirich. High school graduates were also presented with gifts from the Parents Association by Church-School Superintendent Mrs. Lori Moncilovich and by the Circle of Serbian Sisters by First Vice President Christina Tepsick. Father John reminded the students to always remember their church as they either pursue a career or continue their education. Master of ceremonies was First Vice President Mr. Nick Mitovich. The Kolo Sestara prepared the delicious food for the banquet. Friends from the Midland and Hermitage parishes were also in attendance.
Mile Andjelkovich