09-16-06 : Bishop THOMAS visits Saint John the Evangelist Church in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania

On September 16 & 17 our small parish was blessed and edified by the visit of His Grace Bishop THOMAS. Sayidna’s visit gave our parish the opportunity to spend time with and get to know our bishop.

After Vespers on Saturday, His Grace encouraged us with the reminder of St. Sophia and her daughters Faith, Hope and Charity. He told us that wisdom is not found in worldly knowledge but it is the mind and the heart working together. Faith will reduce anxiety and take away worry, hope is perseverance, and charity or love means that we are to be a servant of God.

We then went downstairs to the fellowship hall for a picnic supper with hot dogs and great chili, and had a wonderful time visiting with His Grace, asking questions and receiving much encouragement

On Sunday, during the Divine Liturgy, we were again blessed, and challenged by his sermon to us as he asked, “How are we to serve Christ and His Church? What cross are we called to carry?” Bishop THOMAS extolled us to search out and pursue this, as it is an important part of our life as Christians.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, His Grace blessed our beloved pastor Fr. Christopher Davis, and reminded us that Father Chris is led by the Holy Spirit to guide us on the path that we should follow. After Liturgy, we all gathered together with Sayidna to enjoy a lovely catered meal in the parish fellowship hall.

We would like to express our thanks to His Grace for his time among us. May we be a fruitful vine in His vineyard. Many Years Master!

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