    |
Patriarchal Parish Celebrates Central Event in Cereal City USA
40th Anniversary: 1966-2006
Since the beginning of this year, St. Elias Eastern Orthodox Church has been celebrating its “Ruby” Anniversary by hosting a series of diverse activities and events. Although Kellogg’s and Post Brand Cereals are common place in Battle Creek, Michigan, St. Elias Church, with its coined slogan, “the small parish with a big heart,” is increasingly becoming popular.
Having humble beginnings in 1966 with immigrants hailing primarily from Southeastern Europe, this unique parish has been a faithful member of the Moscow Patriarchate spanning four decades. The jubilee’s main event was observed by numerous parishioners, clergy and faithful from the region, filling the temple for the solemn Divine Liturgy 23 September 2006.
Several priests, deacons and acolytes assisted the chief celebrant Rt. Rev. Mitered Archpriest Feodor S. Kovalchuk, central states dean and rector of Nativity of Christ Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Representing His Grace, the Rt. Rev. MERCURIUS, Bishop of Zaraisk and Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in the USA was the Rev. Hieromonk Joseph (Krioukov) of St. Nicholas Cathedral (NYC). The choir chanted the responses prayerfully under the skillful direction of Kristen Dinsmore. Concelebrating were Archpriest Roman Star, assistant dean; Priests: Christopher Rozdilski (St. Andrew’s in E. Lansing); Dusan Koprivica (St. Demetrius OCA in Jackson); Joshua Frigerio (Holy Ascension OCA in Albion); David Lis (Holy Assumption OCA in Marblehead, OH); St. Elias’ Protodeacon Samuel Beronja and Deacon John Wesner, also from the Albion parish. Priest Michael Carney of St. Herman of Alaska (ROCOR) in Woodbury also attended.
This dignified and festive service along with Vespers on the eve evoked a special feeling among those in attendance. During the Divine Liturgy many of the worshipers received the Holy Mysteries. Archpriest Lawrence Bacik, host rector, preached an inspiring sermon and introduced Bishop MERCURIUS’ personal secretary, Hieromonk Joseph. Batiushka Joseph spoke eloquently about the presence and meaning of spiritual life at St. Elias. Following his edifying speech, he conferred Bishop’s “Gramotas” or certificates of recognition on several individuals who have been laboring tirelessly in this Midwestern parish. Following the veneration of the Cross, a brief social was held in the adjacent hall and a gala banquet was held at the premier Battle Creek Country Club.
Contributing to the reception’s carefully planned program, various speeches were made by the clergy, esteemed guests, political leaders and parishioners. An exhibit featured displays of colorful proclamations and tributes that were bestowed on St. Elias by several embassies, including Yuri V. Ushakov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the USA; scores of prominent statesmen and organizations.
During the entirety of this historic milestone an enjoyable time was had by all! Victor Borzkowski served as a gifted Master of Ceremonies and Eugene Busch and the anniversary committee worked with great dedication to contribute towards the celebration’s enormous success. John and Anastasia Schupra designed an incredibly striking anniversary directory and produced an outstanding audio/visual tribute for this wondrous occasion.
Glory to God for all things!