January 6 and 7, 2007: His Grace Bishop THOMAS made his annual visit to the parish of Saint Basil the Great in Poquoson, Virgini

On January 6th and 7th, His Grace Bishop THOMAS made his annual visit to the parish of Saint Basil the Great in Poquoson, Virginia , and presided over both the Great Blessing of the waters for the Feast of Theophany, and the celebration of the feast of St. Basil (January 1).

Our annual feast and banquet was held on Saturday, January 6th at the Point Plaza Hotel, in Newport News. This was a wonderful time to welcome His Grace, observe Theophany, honor our Patron Saint (Saint Basil the Great), celebrate the New Year, and have fellowship with each other. In addition to the parishioners, our guest list included priests from the local Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Charismatic Episcopal churches. Entertainment was provided by the Police Pipes and Drums of Newport News, which His Grace especially enjoyed.

On Sunday, after Liturgy, His Grace attended our Annual Mission business meeting. The meeting provided him with an appreciation of the overall state of the Mission, and allowed the congregation to ask His Grace questions. His Grace was particularly interested in the growth of Saint Basil's, both in numbers and financially, and gave many helpful suggestions on how to increase both. His Grace stated how much he enjoyed our faith community, and how pleasant it was. He also stated that he has never enjoyed a yearly/parish council meeting, as he did on Sunday.

It will be a delight to have His Grace visit with us again on January 6, 2008, for the celebration of the ten year anniversary of Saint Basil the Great Mission. His Grace will also elevate Father Gregory MacGregor to Archpriest on the occasion of the ten year anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. We welcome all former members of the parish who might have moved away, and all clergy who were involved in either the founding or ongoing success of the mission, to plan to join us on this memorable occasion.

Visit the church of St. Basil’s web site at