To the Clergy, Monastics and Laity of the Western American Diocese! As we enter into the joyous season of Nativity, we must put aside the distractions of this world and remember that Jesus Christ came into the world to reconcile Divinity with creation. When the Heavenly Angelic Hosts revealed themselves in glory to the shepherds...
On October 4, 2025, Fort Ross welcomed around a thousand Orthodox pilgrims from across the country. They gathered for a Divine Liturgy marking one hundred years since services were renewed in the chapel of what is recognized as the first Orthodox parish on the North American mainland. The liturgy was concelebrated by three Metropolitans together...
The recent article “St. John’s Orthodox Academy Must Stand For the Sake of Our Children, Our Church, and Our Future” struck a chord far beyond its initial readership. Alumni, parents, and members of the community from across the decades have reached out in a show of overwhelming support, reaffirming the Academy’s vital role in shaping...
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 The possible closure of Saint John of San Francisco Orthodox Academy would mark a profound failure and a lasting shame for the Orthodox community. I can find no rational justification for...
During their exploration of Northern California, millions annually come across a sign that reads “Russian River.” This prompts them, at some juncture during their travels in the heart of Sonoma’s wine county to ponder about the origins of the name of this splendid waterway. Why is this major artery, flowing southwest for 110 miles from...
A festive atmosphere permeated the area around the Russian Center in San Francisco on May 2nd and 3rd. From the lit windows, a chorus of music, the buzz of lively conversations, and cheerful, booming toasts of “Hip-hip hooray! Hip-hip hooray!” could be heard. This marked the long-awaited return of the legendary Russian Festival under a...