Let us pray:  "O Master, Lord our God, the Fountain of Life and immortality, the Creator of all things visible and invisible, Who governs the seasons and the years and guides all things with Your wise providence.  We thank You for all the blessings You have poured out upon us during the past years of our lives, and we cry out to You, O all-bountiful Lord, bless this coming year with Your goodness, direct our civil authorities in the path of goodness, bestow Your heavenly blessings upon all Your people: health, salvation, and growth in virtue.  Deliver Your Holy Church from every assault of the evil one, and grant us peace and tranquility; and grant that we may always offer thanks to You:  the Father who is from everlasting, together with Your only-begotten Son, and Your most-holy, good, and life-giving Spirit -- God glorified in three Persons, and that we may joyfully praise Your all Holy Name!"

His Grace, Bishop Michael, offers a letter to the faithful of the diocese on the celebration of our Lord's Nativity.  In part, he writes: "If we want to come close to Christ on the Feast of His Nativity, we must leave something behind. Most often it is simply sin. Many times it is the world and all its trappings and busy-ness. Sometimes it is even our self. But anything that is true and noble, just and pure, lovely and of good report (Phil. 4:8) is welcome at His manger, and His hand is raised to bless it."

download/read the Archpastoral Letter >

Following the overwhelming success of “OPERATION BUFFALO” (1-13 August 2011), the vision clearly articulated by His Grace, Bishop Michael, of expanding the ministries of the diocese -- assisting struggling existing parishes and missions -- has been enthusiastically supported by Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors.  Thus, the goal of renovating and establishing a new worship space for Saint Innocent Mission Parish in the lower level of Saint James Episcopal Church ~ "OPERATION ONEONTA" ~ has been accomplished.

For the 54th consecutive year, the youth and teens of Holy Trinity Church (East Meadow NY) presented the parish’s annual Christmas program on Sunday, 11 December. Incorporating scripture readings, liturgical hymns, traditional carols, and a stage filled with costumed children, the program proclaims the message of Jesus Christ’s Nativity. As part of the program, parishioners in attendance were encouraged to bring wrapped gifts which were delivered by the parish’s teen group to the Pediatric Ward at Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC) following the program.

When Bishop Michael launched the Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors program on January 1st he appealed to the faithful saying, “Please consider becoming a Distinguished Diocesan Benefactor! By offering a sacrificial gift of whatever you are able this year, you will enable our Diocese to financially support a vitally important ministry of your choice.”  Three vital ministries were identified for targeted funding through the DDB: (1) support for mission parishes, (2) support for seminarians, and (3) support for struggling existing parishes.  With this year coming to an end, there’s encouraging news about the successes of the DDB!

On Saturday, 3 December 2011, Bishop Michael made a scheduled visit to the Diocesan Diaconal Formation Program and students at the Endicott NY campus. It was a full day of divine services, tonsuring, ordination, lectures, and fellowship. The day began with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy during which students Ilya Arnopolskyy, David Chow, and Gregory White were tonsured Readers; and student Reader Michael Pylypsiw was ordained a Sub-deacon.

Saints Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Jersey City NJ will present "Listening to Christmas Another Way" on Sunday, 18 December at 3:00 pm. The concert will feature The Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir, and the program seeks to welcome neighbors and friends to the church. On the same day, Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Brooklyn NY will present a charitable benefit: "Trinity Classical Concert Series." The concert will begin at 2:00 pm.

View details: "Listening to Christmas Another Way" >

View details: "Trinity Classical Concert Series" >

The Council of Orthodox Christian Churches on the Niagara Frontier will sponsor "Masterpieces of Orthodox Choral Music Christmas Carols" (a Nativity Concert) at Saints Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Buffalo NY at 7:00 pm on Sunday, 11 December.  Following the concert by the Pan-Orthodox Choir everyone is invited to the church hall for fellowship and delicious baked treats.

UPDATED: 14 December 2011

visit the parish website for details and a video! >

download/read the event flyer >

The faithful of Saint George Orthodox Church in Buffalo NY were blessed by an archpastoral visit of His Grace, Bishop Michael, on November 19th and 20th.  Those present reflected on the parish’s many accomplishments, and gave thanks for the grace which God has so richly poured out upon the parish throughout its history beginning with its foundation nearly 50 years ago.  While the cherished memories of those present at the celebration were happily shared, the true focus was on the church’s future. Bishop Michael reminded everyone of the importance in cultivating an authentic Orthodox identity through prayer, outreach, and commitment to the Church.  He also raised a call for evangelism through hospitality and openness to others.

It was a sad day for the faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Church in Buffalo NY when an intruder forcibly entered their holy house and escaped with a parish treasure: a silver encased Holy Gospel book dating back to 1933. The parish had recently experienced the revitalizing efforts of OPERATION BUFFALO (a diocesan-wide project to revive the 114 year-old parish), the assignment of Father Vlad Zablotskyy as rector, and -- in an expression of gratitude for blessings received -- offered a $250 contribution to support OPERATION ONEONTA.  In the midst of such joy and thanksgiving, the theft was the cause of sadness and sorrow. That is, until something ... “a miracle on Ideal Street” ... changed everything.

Bishop Michael has announced that “OPERATION ONEONTA” will be launched to prepare a new worship space for Saint Innocent Mission Parish (Oneonta NY) in the lower level of Saint James Episcopal Church.  Work days will be on 26 November, 3 December, and 10 December (all Saturdays).  Volunteers from throughout the diocese are invited to join in “OPERATION ONEONTA.”  Those skilled in painting, electrical work, and carpentry/woodworking are especially needed. To participate, please coordinate with Father Thomas Langdon (570-503-0512 email trinityoaks@echoes.net) or John Koch (315-855-7505 email johnkoch@frontiernet.net)

UPDATED: 8 DEC 2011 (click on "more information" below)

Bishop Michael convened a meeting of the Diocesan Council on Tuesday, 22 November, welcoming the newly appointed laity diocesan representative to the Metropolitan Council, Janet VanDuyn (Rochester NY). Following the meeting, His Grace hosted a social reception and dinner for seminarians and their families; the seminarians are either from the diocese or have indicated an interest in serving in the diocese following graduation.

On Sunday, November 13th, Bishop Michael celebrated the Akathist "Glory to God for All Things" at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church (Clifton NJ) with petitions and prayers for those who are ill.  Serving along with His Grace was the parish rector, Father Stephen Evanina. Following a homily delivered by Bishop Michael, over 150 faithful were anointed with the holy oil from the reliquary of Saint John Maximovitch.  A fellowship hour followed with a Q&A session with His Grace.

Saint Basil Orthodox Church in Watervliet NY hosted a Diocesan Choir Workshop on Saturday, 12 November 2011.  The guest speaker and facilitator was Mark Bailey, a recognized expert in the field of Orthodox liturgical music.  His Grace, Bishop Michael, was in attendance for part of the program.  The role and purpose of liturgical music was discussed with a main theme that liturgical music is a means to experience and know God through worship.

[BUFFALO NY, WKBW-TV]  Leaders and parishioners of Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Lovejoy were stunned to find out their parish was hit by thieves over the weekend. Stolen were copper inlays along the rear roof of the church, along with a number of items from inside, including a copy of The Gospel that dates back to the building of the church in the 1930's.

VIDEO: news story on WGRZ-TV (Channel 2, Buffalo NY) >

VIDEO: news story on WKBW-TV (Channel 7, Buffalo NY) >

"I’m delighted with the opportunity to bring my family to Lansing, and to serve Holy Apostles Mission," said Father James Worthington in an article published in The Lansing Star. "Our parishioners come from all over the area and throughout Central New York, so I’m excited that we will have the chance to explore how we ... can grow, flourish and benefit this vast, diverse and wonderful community,"

see the Lansing Star article >

His Grace, Bishop Michael, along with diocesan parish clergy and laity delegates gather in holy assembly with the hierarchs, clergy, and laity representing the entire Orthodox Church in America for the 16th All-American Council from 31 October to 4 November in Seattle, Washington.

Information and Podcasts! >

The parishioners of Saint Basil the Great Orthodox Church in Watervliet NY celebrated their 110th anniversary on Sunday, 23 October 2011.  His Grace, Bishop Michael, celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy assisted by Archpriest Peter Olsen (parish rector), Archpriest Alvian Smirensky, Protodeacon Michael Soloviev, Deacon Matthew Markewich, and Deacon Michael Burdikoff.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Diane Rentz was presented an honorary grammata for her dedicated services to the parish.

The 2nd Annual Diocesan Clergy Conference was convened by His Grace, Bishop Michael, on 17-18 October at Holy Assumption Orthodox Church in Clifton NJ.  In addition to providing clergy with an opportunity to consider and discuss specific topics of pastoral concern, the conference seeks to foster bonds of friendship and priestly brotherhood among the participants.

On October 15th, Bishop Michael made an archpastoral visit to Holy Transfiguration Church, Pearl River NY. During the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, His Grace bestowed an award of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America -- the Jeweled Cross -- upon the rector of the parish, Very Reverend Igumen Joseph (Hoffman).  Among his several remarks, Bishop Michael related the Holy Synod’s recognition of Igumen Joseph’s many years of dedicated service to the Holy Orthodox Church as a priest, his position as secretary to the former Archbishop of New York, and his active role in pan-Orthodox relations with the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.

Father Daniel Skvir, clergy co-chair of the Commission on Liturgical Music, remarked: “The first NY-NJ Diocesan Choir Recognition Day was a resounding success, with good feelings all around. Parish priests commented at a recent New Jersey Deanery meeting that the good will inspired by this event was uplifting, and that choir members and directors deserve great credit for adding so much to the spiritual life of the Church. We hope that this celebration on or near the Feast Day of Saint Romanus the Melodist will be an ongoing tradition, taking on various forms of recognition and education. We wish our faithful choir members 'Many Years!’”

NEW! Photos added on October 20, 2011

Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Buffalo NY has launched a newly-redesigned website. The parish rector, Father Volodymyr Zablotskyy, personally designed and manages the website. He said: "Besides providing a source of information about the parish for those who search the Internet, we hope our website will become a source of information and communication for our parishioners as well."

On October 2nd (first Sunday after the feast-day of Saint Romanus the Melodist) the diocese of New York and New Jersey marks its first “Choir Appreciation Day.”  Faithful of the diocese are encouraged to recognize the importance of dedicated parish choir leaders and singers, and to celebrate the God-given talents of their choir members while expressing gratitude to them (and God) for their musical ministry. On this day, Bishop Michael especially recognizes singers and directors with twenty-five years of ministry as Orthodox musicians. The Diocesan Commission on Liturgical Music has provided certificates and icon pins (Saint Romanus) for parish rectors to distribute to these eminent choir members.

On Saturday, 17 September, Reverend Deacon Thaddeus Franta was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at Saints Peter and Paul Church in Endicott NY by His Grace, Bishop Michael of New York and the Diocese of New York and New Jersey. In attendance were faithful from the Endicott parish, students from Saint Tikhon's Seminary, and 12 members of the New York-New Jersey Diocesan Diaconate Formation Program sponsored by Saint Tikhon's Seminary and located at the Saints Peter and Paul Church complex. Father Thaddeus is a 2011 Master of Divinity graduate of Saint Tikhon's Seminary.

On Sunday, Sept 18th, Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Whitestone NY celebrated 95 years as a parish. His Grace, Bishop Michael, was greeted by the children of the parish; the procession of icons, flowers, rose petals, tolling bells and songs evoked an expectation not unlike Pascha. At the doors of the church, George Nitis (parish council president) greeted “Vladika” warmly and welcomed him to the parish.

When OPERATION BUFFALO was launched on August 1st the marching orders and objectives were clear.  Thus began this unprecedented diocesan-wide project to revitalize Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Buffalo NY. The first step ~ “the mission at hand” ~ was to prepare the parish rectory and Church for the assignment of a full-time priest.  It was to be a labor of collaboration and love, bringing together the talents and efforts of the local parishioners and a literal platoon of 35+ volunteers from throughout the diocese.  All three diocesan deaneries (New York State, New Jersey, New York City) were represented in the volunteer force. As for those who participated, the experience was called “inspiring,” “wonderful,” “an incredible expression of unity,” and “a joyful fellowship.”

The Diocesan Council convened for their regular monthly meeting with His Grace, Bishop Michael, on 20 September. In addition to addressing matters affecting the life of the diocese, the council received an encouraging report on the status of the Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors [DDB] and the ministries funded through this initiative. They also reviewed the successful “mission accomplishment” of OPERATION BUFFALO (a comprehensive report will be released on this website on Friday, 23 Sept!). It is also announced that the Annual Clergy Conference – cancelled due to flooding as the result of the hurricane – has been rescheduled for 17-18 October in Clifton NJ. Clergy will receive information concerning the conference soon.

View the “honor roll” of DDBs >

Do you want to become a DDB? >

On the evening of September 11, 2011 parishioners of three churches (Holy Spirit Church, Wantage NJ ~ Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, Middletown NY ~ Saint Ignatius Orthodox Mission,  Florida NY), gathered with local firefighters from Unionville NY & Franklin NJ and area residents to celebrate a 10th anniversary memorial service for the victims of the 9/11 attack on America.

For another consecutive year the faithful of Saint Basil Russian Orthodox Church (Watervliet NY) and Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church (Cohoes NY) gathered together for a joint-parish picnic.  The "sister parishes" of the Albany area in upstate New York enjoyed the afternoon of good food, fellowship, and the opportunity to come together as one in Christ. In commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, prayers were offered for the victims of the terrorist attacks.

The Diaconal Formation Program of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey began its second full year (third semester) on Saturday, September 17, 2010 with a hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Grace, Bishop Michael at Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, Endicott NY.  In addition to students continuing their two-year course of study, several new students from throughout the diocese are expected to enter the program this year.

read Release # 2011.32.1 >

On September 10th, Aleksei Shipovalnikov presented a day-long choir workshop: “Hierarchical Services - Sorting Out the Liturgical Puzzle.”  More than 30 church musicians attended the event hosted by the Diocesan Commission on Liturgical Music and Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus NJ. The workshop included a step-by-step outline of the Hierarchical Liturgy.

An excellent reflection on how faithful parishioners can better help their priests has been offered by Very Reverend Igumen Tryphon, Abbot of the All-Merciful Saviour Monastery, Vashon Island WA. The monastery, established in 1986, is in the Diocese of San Francisco and the West of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. Writing on his Internet blog recently, Abbot Tryphon discussed the unique challenges faced by priests and their families with an insight into how they can be supported. He writes, "I share all this with my readers because most of you are unaware just how difficult a job your priest has and how much is demanded of his time. Most of you love your priests but are just unaware that he rarely gets his own needs met."

The 85th annual national convention of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America [FOCA] was held in Alexandria VA over the Labor Day weekend.  Several hundred members and guests were in attendance. The liturgical celebrations were led by His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah, and His Grace, Bishop Michael of New York and New Jersey. Both hierarchs offered words of inspiration at the banquet that followed the Sunday Divine Liturgy.

details and photos at oca.org >

His Grace, Bishop Michael, has issued an Archpastoral Letter to the diocese on the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of 9/11.  In part he writes: "The immense suffering caused by this tragedy has raised questions within groaning minds and broken hearts, seeking to make some sense of the horrific event. These questions echo the cries of the Psalmist and of our crucified Savior who said, 'My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken me?' (Psalm 21: 1, LXX; Matthew 27:46). No doubt this verse sums up what so many Americans felt, and still feel, in the face of such incredible barbarism: where was God when this happened?"

read the Archpastoral Letter >

Nearly 40 children and adults gathered on Friday and Saturday,  August 19-20, at the 2nd Annual Parish Campout at Annunciation Parish in Brick NJ.  Campers began arriving at 5pm, setting up tents on the parish grounds as the storm clouds thickened.  A dinner of spaghetti with clam and marinara sauces along with salad was enjoyed in the church school building as a few rain drops fell.  After dinner, when Bishop Michael arrived through torrential rains from Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, the storm clouds seemed to blow away.

“The Future of Our Church” was the theme for the First Annual Diocesan Youth Day held on Thursday, 18 August 2011.  Over 100 participants gathered with their bishop (His Grace, Michael) at Saint Mary Russian Orthodox Church Hall in Jackson NJ.  Despite the day beginning with inclement weather (rain, rain, and more rain) there was a great turnout!  Participants included 7 Clergy, over 30 adult chaperones, and well-over 70 youth participants representing 16 parishes within the diocese.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, celebrates his birthday on August 29th. The clergy and faithful of the diocese offer thanks unto God for the archpastoral ministry of their spiritual shepherd and enthusiastcally join together in singing "Eis Polla Eti Despota!"  You may read His Grace's official biography here.

His Eminence, the Most Reverend Dmitri, 87, retired Archbishop of Dallas and the Diocese of the South, fell asleep in the Lord at his home at 2:00 a.m. Sunday morning, August 28, 2011. May Archbishop Dmitri’s memory be eternal!  Information is available on the Orthodox Church in America website.

It was a joyous experience for the faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Bayonne NJ when His Grace, Bishop Michael, spent the weekend of August 20th and 21st worshiping with the parishioners and friends of the parish. Bishop Michael’s presence and inspired words of wisdom brought peace and consolation to those who attended the Great Vespers on Saturday evening and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning.

The Diocesan Council gathered with His Grace, Bishop Michael, for their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, 23 August, at the Diocesan Center. In addition to discussing various issues and making decisions affecting the life of the diocese and its parishes, there was “good news” about the Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors Program. Since the Diocesan Assembly in July, a number of new contributors [DDBs] have stepped up to the challenge of financially supporting the Vision for Our Future [V-FOF].  While the list of benefactors continues to grow, there remains a great need toward supporting missions, supporting seminarians, and supporting struggling parishes. Complete information about the V-FOF and DDB Program … and a way for you to “join the effort” … are available by clicking here!

On the patronal feast of Christ the Savior Church in Paramus NJ, Bishop Michael celebrated the Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, 16 August. Assisting His Grace in the altar were Archpriest John Nehrebecki (pastor emeritus) and Archpriest Joseph Frawley (chaplain at West Point Military Academy). Archpriest David Vernak (parish rector) only communed due to his rehabilitation following a double knee replacement.

Plans for this year’s Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) at Rutgers University, New Brunswick NJ are coming together. Its mission is to support the opportunity for college students to experience and witness to the Orthodox Christian Church through community life, prayer, service to others and study of the Faith. In-coming students attending Rutgers should attend the Involvement Fair on Tuesday, August 30, between 1-5pm to meet Fathers Cassar and Shimchick and obtain more information.

read additional details >

With new carpeting set for installation on Monday (22 August), there is painting to be completed in the parish rectory. Can you help?  "Shuffle on up to Buffalo" to offer your assistance until Monday, 22 August. Supplies are on-site, but bring your favorite painting implements (if you'd like), a noble spirit, and positive attitude.  As others can attest, you'll have a wonderful and joyus experience!  For details and directions, visit the official website for OPERATION BUFFALO.

OPERATION BUFFALO website >

See what's been done so far! >

Reverend Father Leonid Schmidt was ordained to the Holy Priesthood on Saturday, 13 August, at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church in Philadelphia PA by His Grace, Bishop Michael. Having served faithfully as the personal assistant and driver for His Grace over the past year, Father Leonid is well-known and loved throughout the diocese. He was united to Laura in holy matrimony on 24 July, ordained to the diaconate two weeks later, and now joins the priestly brotherhood of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey. Father Leonid and Matushka Laura are assigned to Saints Peter and Paul Church in Syracuse NY (New York State Deanery), where he will minister as assistant priest. “Axios!” 

OPERATION BUFFALO is marching toward “mission accomplishment” as an impressive army of volunteers from every deanery of the diocese (New York State, New Jersey, New York City) has been working shoulder-to-shoulder in an inspiriting display of unity and love. Some volunteers worked a single day, several have worked 3-5 days or more, and still others return for a second “tour of duty” having been so enthused by what they experienced. Willing volunteers are still arriving daily. Scheduled to conclude on August 13th, the scope of work has been breathtaking and the results spectacular. Working diligently with the laity and clergy volunteers has been the newly assigned parish rector, Father Vlad Zablotskyy. “This is unbelievable,” said Father Vlad, “no one has ever seen anything like this before.” The frequent and inspiring presence of Bishop Michael on-site has made it very evident that there is a commitment from the diocesan Archpastor to follow through on the goal of restoring and revitalizing the 117 year-old parish in Buffalo.

Bishop Michael made an archpastoral visit to Saint John the Baptist Church in Rochester NY on 6-7 August. During the hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday, His Grace tonsured the parish council warden Sean McNulty to be set-apart as a Reader, and then ordained his former personal assistant and driver, Leonid (Derek) Schmidt, to the holy Diaconate. Later that day, Bishop Michael traveled 25 miles south to the beautiful Finger Lakes Region to bless the vines, wine-presses, and new wine at Deer Run Winery in Geneseo NY.

The faithful of Saint Andrew Church in Dix Hills NY joined around their archpastor, Bishop Michael, on 30-31 July as he presided over the parish's 45th anniversary celebration. Marking the occasion was a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday celebrated by His Grace who was joined in the altar by Father John Klingel (parish rector), Protodeacon Michael Sochka (the son of the parish's first pastor), and Father Joseph Konkus (a long-time parish friend and retired priest of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese).  Subdeacon Gregory Sulich, visiting from the OCA Chancery, ably supervised the altar servers providing invaluable assistance throughout the day.

OPERATION BUFFALO is "good to go ... ready to launch!"  Able and willing volunteers will accomplish this historic and unprecidented endeavor.  How about you? This is a project of parish revival blessed by Bishop Michael, approved by the Diocesan Council, and supported through the “Vision for Our Future” and funding by our Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors.  This will be a collaborative effort between Saints Peter and Paul Church in Buffalo NY and the diocese.  A dedicated webpage has been created and contains details, printable flyers, contact information, and a “visual tour” of the parish complex. Faithful parishioners from throughout the diocese and their priests may volunteer to actively participate, or they may consider becoming a Distinguished Diocesan Benefactor to offer financial assistance. OPERATION BUFFALO will take place August 1-13, 2011.

visit the OPERATION BUFFALO webpage >

The Vision for Our Future >

The annual Assembly of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey was held on Tuesday, 19 July at Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, Endicott NY.  Clergy and laity delegates from diocesan parishes assembled under the archpastoral leadership of His Grace, Bishop Michael, who said in his address: "My theme is this statement of Our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ, found in the Gospels according to Saint Matthew and Saint Mark: 'The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.'”  A video of His Grace's address is available on-line, as well as an array of photos, and various reports/documents discussed at the Assembly.

View the Bishop's Address and more! >

The Chancellor and three Deans of the diocese have written a letter, addressed to the clergy and faithful, in response to Bishop Michael's recent archpastoral letter "Re-affirming the Sanctity of Marriage."  In part, they write: While the majority of Orthodox Christians are familiar with the Church’s consistent and constant teaching about same-sex attraction and the nature of marriage, this is an opportune time to repeat the Church’s teaching so that no ambiguity exists in the minds of the faithful. Therefore, we, the Chancellor and Deans of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey, wish to thank His Grace, Bishop Michael for his recent archpastoral letter and join him in reaffirming the teaching of the Orthodox Church in this regard.

read the letter from the Chancellor & Deans >

read Bishop Michael's Archpastoral Letter >

For the second consecutive year, diocesan clergy families gathered for summer picnics hosted by Bishop Michael.  The picnics are a testimony to the emphasis His Grace places on encouraging and nurturing the priests, deacons, matushki, and “clergy kids” of the diocese. Through the casual and relaxed setting of summer fun and fellowship, clergy families attending the picnics shared valuable time together and with their spiritual father, Bishop Michael. The New Jersey Deanery picnic was held in Rahway NJ on Sunday, July 3rd and the New York State Deanery picnic was held the following day, July 4th, in Herkimer NY.

The 6th of seven regional diocesan Parish Council Conferences was held on June 18, 2011 at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow NY.  This was followed by the final conference held at Saint Vladimir Orthodox Church (Trenton NJ) on June 25th. The conferences were developed and blessed by Bishop Michael to provide training, guidance, and resources to parish council members and leaders of parish ministries. It is part of His Grace's dedicated efforts toward empowering and supporting parish communities. It is anticipated that regional parish council conferences will be an annual occurrence ... thus, this year marks the beginning of a process. An excellent report on the June 18th conference has been written by Reader Nilus Klingel and appears in the Saint Andrew Orthodox Church (Dix Hills NY) parish newsletter, "The Cupola."

download/read the article in "The Cupola" >

On the feast-day of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist (24 June), Bishop Michael issued a letter to the faithful of the diocese on the sanctity of marriage.  This comes in light of social-cultural arguments and debates in which the very nature and structure of civil marriage lead to confusion and legislative assertions that are contrary to the Tradition and teaching of the Church. In his letter, His Grace writes: "Let us bear witness to the truth taught by Our Lord, and lived by His Saints, in our daily conversations with our families, our fellow Christians, our neighbors and co-workers. Let us teach the Orthodox Christian vision of marriage, as a path to salvation shared by husband and wife, to our children, godchildren, and all those who come under our care as parents, godparents, pastors, and Christian educators."

read the Archpastoral Letter >

On Saturday, June 18th, Bishop Michael celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in the Church of The Mother of God, in Mays Landing NJ. During the service, His Grace awarded the “Gold Cross” to the parish rector, Father Boris Slootsky and tonsured Charles Gallagher as a Reader.  Father Dimitri Don and Deacon Vladimir Olaynyk of ROCOR also took part in this beautiful service.

With the blessing of Bishop Michael, the 2011 Diocesan Youth Day will be held on Thursday August 18, 2011. His Grace will be joining us for the day at which time the youth of our diocese will be able spend some time with His Grace in prayer and fellowship. The day will include a lengthy visit to Six Flags Great Adventure located in Jackson NJ. The main focus of this event is to bring the youth of our diocese together in prayer, Christian fellowship, and lots of fun! Registration documents and complete information are available on a special website created for the event.

visit the Diocesan Youth Day website >

On Sunday, 26 June 2011, at 12:15 p.m. Saint Andrew Orthodox Church (Dix Hills NY) will host a lecture entitled “The Design of the Orthodox Temple and Its Adornment With Holy Icons.” The presenter will be Yani Pavlides, RA, AIA. The lecture is free and open to the public. Members of neighboring parishes are particularly encouraged to join the faithful of Saint Andrew parish as they gather and listen to the lecture which promises to be very instructive in this generally under-explored area of our faith.

download/view the event flyer >

visit the parish website >

His Grace, Bishop Michael, visited Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Rochester NY on June 15-16.  On Wednesday evening he joined the parish rector, Father Ken James Stavrevsky, in celebrating the Akathist “Glory to God for All Things” as faithful of the parish gathered along with several neighbors from the area surrounding the Church. Invitations had been distributed to the parish neighbors welcoming them to the celebration and social reception following. The next day (Thursday), His Grace traveled to Saint Lucy’s Farm in Naples NY to bless the animals, fields, and homes of the Johnson and Heise families.

The Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection (New York City) is pleased to announce the release of a new CD of liturgical music sung at the divine services in the cathedral throughout the church year. “This is not a virtuosic performance of liturgical masterpieces, but rather a taste of what the divine services as heard and experienced at the cathedral are like,” said the Cathedral Dean, Father Christopher Calin.

On Monday, June 13th, Bishop Michael celebrated the Divine Liturgy on the parish feast-day of Holy Spirit Church in Wantage NJ.  Many clergy from near and afar came to celebrate also. The wonderfully inspiring homily was delivered by Reader Derek Schmidt.  The responses were prayerfully and beautifully sung by Holy Spirit's choir along with some guest singers who were led by the parish choir director, Joanne Patrick.

On the Great Feast of Pentecost -- Sunday, June 12th -- Bishop Michael was present and celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection in Manhattan together with the Cathedral Dean, Igumen Christopher (Calin).  Sub-deacon David Chandler Poling, a second year student at Saint Vladimir's Seminary from the cathedral parish, was ordained to the holy diaconate. Bishop Michael also elevated Igumen Christopher (Calin) to the rank and dignity of Archimandrite during the Liturgy.

The fourth of seven regional Parish Council Conferences within the diocese was held at Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus NJ on June 4, 2011.  In attendance were 70 clergy and laity.  As with all of the regional conferences, the facilitator was Very Reverend Alexander Atty, Dean of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary. Father Atty actively and energetically engaged those gathered as he presented an Orthodox vision of the duties and responsibilities of parish council members.

In the joy of the feast-day of Holy Pentecost, an Archpastoral letter to the clergy and faithful of the diocese has been received from His Grace, Bishop Michael. In part, he writes: "On this great feast of Pentecost, we Orthodox Christians celebrate both the coming down of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the Birth of our Holy Church. Today we are challenged to be as faithful to the Holy Spirit and to Christ’s Holy Church as the apostles and disciples were nearly 2,000 years ago."

download/read the Archpastoral letter >

For more complete information, see the details in the "Upcoming Events on the Diocesan Calendar" section of this webpage.  Accommodations update!  A block of 30 rooms has been reserved for the conference on 3 nights (Jul 31 - Aug 2) at the Laquinta Inn: 581 Harry L. Drive ~ Johnson City NY 13790 ~ phone 607-770-9333. The rooms are listed under "Dormition Church" and the special rate is $84 per night. Cut-off date is July 10th and after that unused rooms will be returned to general availability. Anyone calling after June 10th will be able to reserve a room at the special price, based on availability. Check-in is after 2:00pm and check-out is at noon.

visit the Commission on Mission & Evangelism website >

The annual Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey will convene on Tuesday, 19 July, at Saints Peter and Paul Church in Endicott NY.  All registration materials, certification forms, reports, and other documents will be posted on this website in a special Diocesan Assembly webpage as they are received.    Be sure to visit the webpage often as updates will be made regularly. Parishes will also receive official documents by US Mail.

UPDATED: 18 JULY 2011 at 8:30 a.m.

view the Diocesan Assembly webpage >

A new website for Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow NY has been completed and launched on Wednesday, June 1st. The new site features a variety of resources to meet the needs of parishioners, friends, and those searching for more information about American Orthodox Christianity on Long Island. “Our Lord Jesus Christ commanded us to proclaim the message of the Good News, and utilizing the Internet is just one of the many ways to accomplish that mission,” said the rector of the growing community, Father Martin Kraus.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, encourages all diocesan clergy ... and interested faithful ... to participate in the upcoming "Missiology & Evangelism Workshop" at Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary on June 7-8.  Parish councils should consider paying the registration fee for their priest to attend this educational opportunity regarding vital and needed parish growth. Saint Vladimir’s will also offer a workshop on “Internet Pornography & Chastity” on June 9-11 as part of their summer programs.

visit the Seminary website for details >

read Release # 2011.19.2 >

The members of the Diocesan Council [DC] gathered for a meeting with His Grace, Bishop Michael, at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY on Monday, 16 May 2011.  A service of intercession and thanksgiving (molieben) for the good-estate of the diocese and grace-filled assembly of the DC was celebrated by Bishop Michael prior to the meeting commencing at 11:42 a.m.   The next meeting of the DC will be at the Diocesan Center on Tuesday, 14 June 2011.

The Diocesan Council and Council of Presbyters gathered with Bishop Michael on May 16 and 17, respectively, to address matters of vital importance to the “good estate” of our diocese and, specifically, the life and vitality of diocesan parishes. In serious, candid, and faithful deliberations, matters of strategic significance are being thoughtfully and seriously discussed – with associated decisions and actions being taken – toward the building-up of the Body of Christ in the diocese. With this in mind, the Diocesan Assembly has been scheduled for July 19, 2011 in Endicott NY. Information, reports, and documents concerning the Diocesan Assembly will be distributed soon and published to the diocesan website.

With the blessing of His Grace, Bishop Michael, in full support of our diocesan vision and commitment toward revitalizing and empowering parish life in the diocese, the first two regional Diocesan Parish Council Conferences have been conducted at Saint Basil's Orthodox Church, Watervliet NY (April 30th) and Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Rochester NY (May 7th).  Very Reverend Alexander Atty, Dean of Saint Tikhon's Seminary, is the presenter/facilitator for these and subsequent conferences at the invitation of Bishop Michael. Regional conferences are scheduled for the New Jersey Deanery (June 4th and June 25th), the New York City Deanery (June 11th and June 18th), and a final conference for the New York State Deanery (May 14th).

You are invited to join our diocesan priest Father Ilya Gotlinsky and parishioners of the Dormition Parish in Binghamton NY on a pilgrimage to Asia Minor on October 16-31. The pilgrimage to will cover very extensive territory. It will start in the South-Eastern region by visiting the remains of Ancient city of Antioch where followers of Christ were first called “Christians.” From there, via the Monastery of Saint Simeon "the younger stylite" it will proceed to the birth place of Saint Paul the Apostle in Tarsus and travel to the hauntingly beautiful region of Cappadocia. From there it will make its way south to the towns associated with Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, visiting along the way archeological parks of Aspendos and Perge that are ancient cities visted by the Apostles. After Myra in Lycia, it will visit ancient Hierapolis on route to Ephesus where the Virgin Mary lived in the house of the Apostle John. Then, the tour will visit the exile place of Saint John the Evangelist and the “Revelation Cave” on the island of Patmos. The pilgrimage will end in the Royal city of Constantinople, the capital of the mighty Byzantine Empire for over millennia. For details, please contact Father Ilya Gotlinsky at 1-607-797-1058 or by e-mail: ortours@gmail.com   The website is: orthodoxtours.com

To our beloved hierarch we sing: “Many Years! Eis Polla eti Despota!”  One year has passed since the consecration and installation of His Grace, Michael, as Bishop of New York and the Diocese of New York and New Jersey.  It was a long awaited and keenly anticipated day on the 8th of May 2010 at Saints Peter & Paul Church in Jersey City NJ.

NEW!  Photos of Anniversary Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Divine Liturgy was celebrated with Paschal joy and procession on "Bright Tuesday" (April 26th) at Holy Spirit Church, Wantage NJ. Hosting the celebration was the parish rector and Dean of the New Jersey Deanery, Archpriest Samuel Kedala. He was joined in celebration by: Igumen Joseph (Rector, Holy Transfiguration Church, Pearl River NY), Priest Christos Talleos (Rector, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, Middletown NY), Priest Stephen Evanina (Rector, Holy Assumption Church, Clifton NJ and Deanery Secretary), and Deacon Thaddeus Franta of Saint Tikhon's Seminary. Altar servers were Edward Engelsman and Mark Benda. Directing the choir was Matushka Velislava Franta of Saint Tikhon's Seminary. "Christ is Risen!" "Indeed, He is Risen!"

In the resplendent celebration and abundant joy of the Resurrection of our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ, an Archpastoral Letter to the clergy and faithful of the diocese has been issued by His Grace, Bishop Michael. In part it reads: "The day of Pascha is at the very center of the life of our Orthodox Church, since its very inception twenty centuries ago. The Resurrection of Jesus dominated the preaching and thinking of the early Christians.  The message of the Resurrection is the heart of our Creed because it is the very heart of our Christian Faith."

download/read the Archpastoral Letter >

The great Moses mystically foreshadowed this day when he said: “God blessed the seventh day.” This is the blessed Sabbath; this is the day of rest, on which the only-begotten Son of God rested from all His works. By suffering death to fulfill the plan of salvation, He kept the Sabbath in the flesh; by returning again to what He was, He has granted us eternal life through His Resurrection, for He alone is good and the Lover of man.

I gave my back to beatings, I did not turn my face away from the spitting. I stood before the judgment seat of Pilate, and I endured the cross, for the salvation of the world.

Of Your Mystical Supper, O Son of God, accept me today as a communicant.  For I will not speak of Your Mystery to Your enemies, neither like Judas will I give You a kiss; but like the thief I will confess You: “Remember me, O Lord, in Your Kingdom!”  Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

His Grace, Bishop Michael, visited Saint Vladimir's Seminary in Crestwood NY for the commemoration of "Lazarus Saturday" and celebrated the Divine Liturgy during which he ordained William Seraphim Joa to the diaconate.

From April 6 to April 9, Bishop Michael visited the New York State Deanery for a variety of events.  Activities during this visit by His Grace included: (1) celebration of a Hierarchical Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in Endicott NY, (2) Chrismation of catechumens into Orthodox faith, (3) the Lenten meeting of the New York State Deanery clergy, (4) a visit to a prison, and (5) celebration of Divine Liturgy at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home of Endwell NY which was attended by over 60 residents, Diocesan Diaconate Formation Program students, and members of the Endicott “R” Club chapter who organized this initiative of outreach ministry.

The New York State Deanery gathered on April 7th for its annual meeting during the fifth week of Great Lent at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Syracuse NY.  His Grace, Bishop Michael, celebrated the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts as many faithful of the parish sang the responses and joined with the clergy of the deanery in Eucharistic celebration. A delectable Lenten fellowship lunch was hosted by the parish rector, Father John Chupeck, and several parishioners following the liturgy. The clergy then assembled with His Grace to discuss matters affecting the life of deanery parishes and the diocese.

Today the new home page of the Commission on Mission and Evangelism for the Diocese of New York and New Jersey is “on-line” through a logo/link on the diocesan webpage. Established in 2010 with the blessing of His Grace, Bishop Michael, the Commission is composed by representatives of each of the three deaneries (New York State, New Jersey, and New York City) and is headed by Archpriest Jonathan Ivanoff.

download/read Release # 2011.16.1 >

visit the home page >

The SPRING 2011 issue of "Jacob's Well" is now available on-line!  Copies of the highly-praised publication are being sent to all parishes of the diocese in bulk, according to the number requested, for distribution to the faithful by the parish rectors. It is anticipated that the mailings will be received in matter of days.

download/read the Spring 2011 edition of "Jacob's Well" >

With the blessing of His Grace, Bishop Michael, Father Sophrony Royer (rector of Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church) brought the three Orthodox churches in Passaic NJ together in true worship and prayer on March 30th. In the Third Antiphon of the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts we hear, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” Unity was present at this gathering of brothers and sisters in Christ -- an historic "first" -- as clergy and faithful from all three of Passaic’s Orthodox churches came together to worship.  This followed a very special visit by His Grace, Alejo, Bishop of Mexico City to the parish on March 19-20.

see the full story at the parish website >

read the article: Bishop Alejo of Mexico City visits Passaic NJ >

The diocese will experience another “first” this year as seven regional Parish Council Conferences will be conducted from April 30th to June 25th.  With the inspiration and blessing of His Grace, Bishop Michael, the conferences will provide an opportunity for those serving on parish councils to consider the nature and content of their unique vocation in leadership and ministry within their local parish community.  It is hoped that the gathering of persons from more than one parish will also build a spirit of common effort and mutual support as both the joys and struggles of parish life (spiritual and material) are shared among the participants.

NEW!  Dates and locations UPDATED

download/read Release # 2011.15.2 >

The New Jersey Deanery of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey is comprised of 27 parishes.  The clergy of the deanery assembled on March 14th at Holy Assumption Church, Clifton NJ for a monthly meeting.  After the meeting adjourned, Bishop Michael led the clergy in the Rite of Forgiveness. This annual gathering at the beginning of Great Lent calls the brother priests to ask forgiveness of one other as they enter the great fast.

The journey through Great Lent continues and the sojourn to our Lord’s PASCHA nears its destination. We focus on spiritual awakening and the fruits of repentance through what has been called the “spiritual triad” of prayer, fasting, and charity. Inspired by Bishop Michael’s letter at the beginning of Great Lent (available here), we come to “the middle of the fast” having been blessed and encouraged by the image of the Cross in our midst. Along the journey so far, His Grace celebrated the Sunday of Orthodoxy in Wantage NJ on March 13th and welcomed His Grace, Alejo, Bishop of Mexico City in South River NJ on the second Sunday of Great Lent.

A “Vision for Our Future” as envisioned by His Grace, Bishop Michael and approved by the recent Diocesan Assembly, supports vitally important initiatives through the Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors [DDB] program.  A growing number of faithful, both laity and clergy, throughout the diocese and beyond are contributing much needed funding for all three initiatives: (1) support to missions parishes, (2) support to seminarians, and (3) support to existing parishes that are struggling.  Contributions are received on a daily basis and the fruit of these sacrificial offerings is beginning to show forth as mission parishes are supported, seminarians are assisted through scholarships, and existing parishes are encouraged and hopefully revitalized.  To date, $30,000 (donated by parishes, clergy, and faithful) has been offered by Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors!

download/read Release # 2011.14.2 >

In a letter to the faithful of our diocese regarding the recent tragedies in Japan, Bishop Michael writes: "Our initial response as Orthodox Christians is, of course, prayer to the Lord who loves mankind for our brothers and sisters in Japan, many of whom are Orthodox Christians, and for all those afflicted; for the repose of the souls of those who have departed this life in the wake of this tragedy … and for the health and safety, care and healing of those who have lost their family members, their homes, and their hope. In this season of Great Lent we are especially reminded, however, that prayer is not enough."

download/read Bishop Michael's letter >

Special Petitions for the Litany of Supplication >

On March 6th, Archpriest John Behr (Dean of Saint Vladimir's Seminary) led the members of the “Second Street Cathedral” of the Holy Virgin Protection in a mini-retreat called: The Lenten Journey to the Cross.  Father John concelebrated the Holy Liturgy with the Cathedral Dean, Igumen Christopher (Calin) and cathedral clergy. After coffee hour, a full house gathered in the newly renovated Metropolitan Theophilus Auditorium.  As preparation for our entry into Great Lent, Father John gave a discourse on the meaning of Pascha and its central significance for our faith.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, ordained seminarian Matthew Markewich to the holy diaconate on Saturday, 12 March, during a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Saint Basil’s Church in Watervliet NY.   Deacon Matthew was received into the Orthodox faith in 2006 at Saint Basil’s parish through the ministry of Father Peter Olsen and the faithful witness of parishioners.

The members of the Diocesan Council [DC] gathered for a meeting with His Grace, Bishop Michael, at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY on Monday, 28 February 2011. A service of intercession and thanksgiving (molieben) for the good-estate of the diocese and grace-filled assembly of the DC was celebrated by Bishop Michael prior to the meeting commencing at 11:44 a.m.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael, has issued an archpastoral letter on the occasion of the beginning of Great Lent:  "In the very first sermon Our Lord ever preached and so many other times that He spoke, the theme was the same: 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!' Our Church recalls that message throughout the year, but most especially during the season of the Great Fast, when she calls her spiritual children to repentance."

download/read the Archpastoral Letter >

On February 25-27 the diocese convened its first diocesan-wide Altar Servers Retreat.  The response was very encouraging as His Grace, Bishop +Michael, was joined by five priests, a deacon, and fifty altar servers of all ages at Saint Basil Academy in Garrison NY.  The unofficial theme of the weekend was: “We serve at the Liturgy as an expression of our love for God.”  Over and over again, Bishop +Michael and the other speakers reiterated this point to the men and boys present:  “We serve out of love.”

The diocese will sponsor an Overnight Youth Retreat at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, Wayne NJ for students 7th-12th Grades on April 1-2, 2011.  The Lenten Youth Retreat is entitled “Baptized into Christ: Galatians 3:2 and Romans 6:3”   Orthodox and non-Orthodox students are encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity for Orthodox young people to invite a non-Orthodox friend.

The Assembly of Bishops is a council of all the active Orthodox bishops of North America. Its purpose is to deepen the ties of brotherhood among the bishops, give them a common and united voice, and create a greater unity of action among all the Orthodox faithful of North America, thereby strengthening the Church's witness to her faith in Jesus Christ. A permanent link to the official webpage of the Assembly of Bishops has been posted on this website. It includes a comprehensive directory of Orthodox parishes in the United States. Enter a zip code and you can find local Orthodox Churches in any area or region!

Assembly of Bishops official website >

Directory of Parishes >

On Saturday, 12 February 2011, Bishop +Michael met with more than 70 diocesan church musicians to discuss the state of liturgical music in the diocese.  Organized by the Diocesan Liturgical Music Committee and hosted by Holy Resurrection Church (Wayne NJ), the event participants celebrated a service of thanksgiving (Molieben) for the “Beginning Any Good Work” to start their gathering.

download/read Release # 2011.7.1 >

Since the launching of the "Vision for Our Future" and the "Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors" Program, many have offered their prayers and financial support to the vital ministries of our diocese! Thanks to the support of a growing list of Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors, we are accomplishing good things and meeting challenges.  Do you want examples of what we're doing?  Click here!

The Diocesan Diaconal Formation Program was inaugurated on September 11, 2010.  As the program’s twelve enrolled students now progress diligently and rapidly through a second semester, it is apparent that God’s blessings are upon the endeavor.

download/read Release # 2011.6.1 >

The official photograph of His Grace, Bishop +Michael, will soon be available for distribution.  Information about obtaining a high-resolution copy of the photo will be released when available. 

On Sunday, 23 January, Bishop +Michael made his first archpastoral visit to Saint Martin's Chapel at West Point Military Academy. His Grace spoke on the Gospel reading for the day (Luke 18:35-43). He pointed out that as the Savior was traveling along a road, a blind man cried out, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!"  His Grace said, "The blind man, unable to see Christ with his physical eyes, was able to discern Him with his spiritual eyes."

Saint Andrew's Camp is located on the shore of Lake Oneida in Jewell NY.  The 4-week summer program is designed to provide children and teens with a camping experience in an Orthodox Christian community, temporarily away from the modern distractions that often make us forget the simple things.  A camp fundraising dinner will take place on February 20th in South River NJ.

camp website >  fundraiser flyer >

Mother Raphaela of Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery will conduct a retreat at Saint Andrew's Church (Dix Hills NY) entitled "Living and Growing with Christ" on Saturday, February 19th. Welcome and sign-in are scheduled for 9:00 am. The retreat will conclude at 5:00 p.m. with Vespers. Lunch will be provided. A donation of $15 is recommended. To register contact Virginia Jerosh 631-271-4209 or email: vginjon56@aol.com

download/view Retreat flyer >

On Thursday, February 3rd, faithful of Christ the Saviour parish (Paramus NJ) and visiting pilgrims welcomed Archpriest Sergius Lukianov and his team as they presented the renowned wonder-working Kursk Root Icon: “Our Lady of The Sign.”  Found in 1295 near the ruins of the city of Kursk at the root of a tree (and known ever since as the Kursk Root Icon), the holy icon is known for countless miracles, healings and assistance in misfortunes.

Families of the New York State (upstate) Deanery, including families from the newly established Holy Apostles Mission in Lansing~Ithaca, got a chance to spend a weekend in fellowship gathered around their bishop and deanery clergy families on 28-30 January. The weekend started out with his Grace, Bishop +MICHAEL, spending two full-packed days at Hope Lake Lodge and Water Park at Greek Peak NY.

The Council of Presbyters assembled with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, for a meeting on January 31st at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY. The meeting began with a service of intercession and thanksgiving (Moleiban) for the grace-filled assembly of presbyters and the good-estate of the diocese. Prayerful petitions were offered for the healing of ailing and afflicted members of the diocese.

The dates were (Friday-Saturday) 28-29 January 2011. The location was the newly constructed Hope Lake Lodge Resort at Greek Peak NY as 130-160 faithful from the New York State Deanery participated in all or part of a two-day “Family Conference and Retreat.”

The deadline for submissions to the upcoming issue of the diocesan publication, “Jacob’s Well,” has been extended to February 14, 2011.  Pastors and parishes should submit articles/photos by email to: frjs@aol.com

With the blessing of His Grace, Bishop +Michael, a Diocesan Altar Servers Retreat will take place at Saint Basil Academy in Garrison NY.  It will be a three-day retreat: 25-27 February 2011.  There will be no charge to participate in the retreat.  Altar servers of all ages are encouraged to attend and should reserve their participation through the rector of their parish!  The deadline for registration is FEBRUARY 18, 2011.

NEW! download the Agenda & Schedule >

download/read Release # 2011.4.2 >

In response to the “Vision for Our Future” announced by His Grace, Bishop +Michael, and the launching of the related Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors program, the parish of Saint John the Baptist in Rochester NY has committed its support of an initiative to provide financial support to a seminarian from our diocese.

The members of the Diocesan Council [DC] gathered with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY for a meeting on Monday, 17 January 2011.

On the feast-day of Theophany (January 6) Orthodox Christians from across Long Island gathered at Alhambra Beach at Great South Bay to celebrate the blessing of the waters. This event is part of Theophany/Epiphany celebrations by Orthodox Christians around the world.

A “Vision for Our Future” [V-FOF] and the “Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors” [DDB] program are officially launched today on this website at 2:00 p.m. with the blessing of His Grace, Bishop +Michael.  A direct link to a special "V-FOF" webpage will be permanently displayed on the homepage through a “Welcome to A Vision for Our Future” graphic.

Release # 2011.1.1 >

Visit the V-FOF webpage >

The parishioners of Saint Basil Orthodox Church in Watervliet NY celebrated their parish feast day on January 1st with the commemoration of Saint Basil the Great. This is the only OCA church in our diocese consecrated to the commemoration of Saint Basil.  The sister parishes of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker (Cohoes NY) and Christ the Savior (Milton NY) joined the faithful of Saint Basil's for the celebration.

A diocesan altar servers retreat is scheduled for 25-26 February 2011 at Saint Basil's Academy, Garrison NY. Clergy of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey should report the number of altar servers that will attend the retreat to their respective deans (as soon as possible). Adult supervision will also be sought to accompany the servers.

The newly elected and appointed members of the Diocesan Council gathered for their first meeting with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY on Tuesday, 14 December 2010.

more information >

The Junior Upper New York State District of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians (FOCA) held its annual convention and bowling tournament on November 13, 2010.  The event was sponsored by the Junior "R" Club of Saint Nicholas Church (Auburn NY) and was attended by 23 juniors and over 10 adults from Auburn, Cohoes NY and Endicott NY.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael, extends his warmest greetings and love to the clergy, faithful, and friends of our diocese as we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of our Lord, God, and Savior - Jesus Christ.  He has sent out an Archpastoral Letter for the feast to all parishes.

download/read the Archpastoral Letter >

On Saturday, December 11th, Bishop +Michael lead a retreat - "Scripture in Tradition" - at Saints Peter & Paul Church (Syracuse NY). Several faithful from nearby parishes attended as well. His Grace celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the parish the following day.

Nearly 40 youth and teens of Holy Trinity Church (East Meadow NY) participated in the parish’s 53rd annual Christmas program on Sunday, December 12, 2010. The program, "A Living Icon of the Lord’s Nativity," included scripture readings, hymns, a large format "puzzle" icon, and kids acting out the Nativity story.

Read article at oca.org >

Dates for the 2011 camping season at Saint Andrew's Camp have been announced via the camp website and blog.  Tuition for campers is $300 per week and scholarships are available through an application process. Interested clergy, campers, counselors, and weekly volunteers are invited to join in the camp experience!

Camp blog >

Website >

The newly appointed Commission on Mission and Evangelism of the Diocese of New York & New Jersey held its first working meeting on December 7, 2010.

download Release >

His Grace, Bishop +Michael, will lead a discussion on "The True Meaning of Christmas" at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Orthodox Church (Clifton NJ) on Wednesday, December 15th, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Saints Peter and Paul Church in Syracuse NY will host an annual Christmas Retreat from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm on Saturday, December 11th.  The retreat leader will be His Grace, Bishop +Michael.  Faithful from surrounding parishes are invivited to attend the retreat.

download/view flyer >

The parishioners of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker (Cohoes NY) and the sister parish of Saint Basil the Great (Watervliet NY) joined together for Vespers on Saturday, December 4th and again on Sunday, December 5th as His Grace, Bishop +Michael, joined them in celebrating the Divine Liturgy to commorate Saint Nicholas "the Wonderworker."

Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Rochester NY hosted a Family Vespers Day on Saturday, November 27th.  The day began at 3:00 pm with prosphora (Church bread) baking and included a very special reading of the newly published children's book And Then Nicholas Sang by the author, parishioner Elizabeth Johnson.

We are pleased to announce that the official diocesan magazine, "Jacob's Well," is back in publication!  You may view/read the current issue on-line.

Download / View Issue >

Release # 2010.24.1 >

The “Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir” will present a seasonal concert of Orthodox Church music at Saint Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church (Randolph NJ) on Sunday, December 12th beginning at 5:00 p.m.

In his Thanksgiving Day message to the clergy and faithful of our diocese, Bishop +Michael says: "Please, take the time to give Glory to God for all things this Thanksgiving Day.  And, may our loving Lord grant you and your loved ones all the countless blessings that come from His hands."

Father Matthias Moriak, currently assigned to Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery (Otego NY), was canonically elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America to the vacant See of Chicago and the Midwest on November 16, 2010.

In remembrance of His Eminence, Archbishop +PETER, retired diocesan hierarch of New York and New Jersey who fell asleep in the Lord three years ago on November 19, 2007.  May his memory be eternal!

The faithful of Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus NJ welcomed His Grace, Bishop +Michael, on 18-19 September for the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the parish.

On November 9, 2010, eighty-seven delegates (47 clergy / 40 laity) gathered at historic Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in New York City around His Grace, Bishop +Michael, for the annual Assembly of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey.

The Assembly of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey begins today -- November 9, 2010 --at Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in New York City.  His Grace, Bishop +Michael, will preside as priests, deacons, and laity will gather from throughout the diocese as delegates to the annual assembly to prayerfully consider and plan for the “good estate” of the Church.

On Friday evening, November 5th, the miraculous Myrrh-Streaming Iveron Icon of the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary visited Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in New York City.  Over 200 faithful gathered around His Grace, Bishop +Michael, and several priests and deacons in a service of prayer followed by the veneration of the icon.

The faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Church (Jersey City NJ) were filled with great joy as His Grace, Bishop +Michael, made his first archpastoral visit to the parish on Sunday, October31st.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael made his first archpastoral visit to Holy Transfiguration Church, Pearl River NY on October 23, 2010.  The parish rector, Very Reverend Igumen Joseph (Hoffman), with several New Jersey Deanery clergy and parishioners greeted His Grace together in the temple for the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy.

Metropolitan Dimitri of Batumi and the Diocese of Lazeti (Church of Georgia) visited the Georgian faithful at Saints Peter & Paul Church, Manville NJ, on October 26th.  The Metropolitan oversees the Georgian missions in the USA.

The Council of Presbyters assembled with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, for their second meeting on October 25th at the Diocesan Center in Bronxville NY.  Later that evening, several seminarians and their families ~ attending either Saint Tikhon’s Seminary or Saint Vladimir’s Seminary ~ gathered for a a “welcome dinner” hosted by Bishop +Michael.

On Friday, October 22nd, an Akathist before the Icon of the Mother of God, "Healer of Cancer," was served at the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection, New York NY. Leading the service were Bishop +Michael of New York and Bishop +Jerome of Manhattan (Russian Church Abroad).

On “World Hunger Day” ~ October 16, 2010 ~ Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow NY spearheaded their first CROP Hunger Walk to raise funds for the work of Church World Service in combating hunger locally and around the world.

On Thursday afternoon, October 21, the clergy of the New York State Deanery assembled with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, for a deanery meeting at Saint Nicholas Church in Cohoes NY.  Later that evening, a special "Open Forum" to discuss the Orthodox Church in America [OCA] Draft Strategic Plan welcomed laity from the deanery parishes to participate.

On October 14, 2010 -- with the blessing of His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah and at the invitation of the Georgian Orthodox Church -- Bishop Michael participated in the celebration of the 1000th Anniversary of the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Life-Giving Tree.

In an annual observation that provides grieving parents and family members an opportunity to pray, members of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church (East Meadow NY) hosted a prayer service on Friday, October 15, for families on Long Island that have experienced a pregnancy loss or infant death.

The New York Daily News featured an article on Sunday, October 17th about Saint Nicholas Church in Whitestone NY.  Taking advantage of available opportunities for good public relations is often neglected but such is not the case for the recently appointed rector of the parish, Father Joseph Woodill.

On Thursday, October 7, 2010 a Panikheda was served for the renowned late professor of Dogmatic Theology at Saint Vladimir's Seminary, Serge Verhovskoy, along with his wife, Olga, and sister, Vera.

On October 22, 2010 at 7:30 pm an Akathist Service to the Mother of God, “the Healer of Cancer” will take place at the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection, New York City. The service is timed for the week after the famed Avon Breast Cancer Walk as a cancer research fundraiser, and to enhance cancer awareness and provide support ministry to the afflicted and their families.

The official documents and reports for the upcoming Diocesan Assembly on November 9, 2010 are now available for viewing/downloading on this website!  Visit the special "Diocesan Assembly" section by clicking on the link found on the homepage.

The Board of Trustees of the Orthodox Charitable and Educational Foundation (the parent organization of Saint Andrew's Camp) gathered for their annual post-camping season meeting on Saturday, September 18, 2010.  This annual meeting normally takes place on the camp premises at Jewell NY, but this year the meeting was held at Saints Peter and Paul Church, South River NJ.

Bishop +Michael will be representing His Beatitude, Metropolitan +JONAH and the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America at the 1,000th Anniversary of the Cathedral of the Life-giving Tree in Mtskheta, the cathedral of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch +ILIA II, Primate of the Church of Georgia.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael convened the first Strategic Planning Meeting for Saints Cosmas and Damian Adult Home in Staten Island on September 25, 2010.  The meeting was held off-site at Saints Peter and Paul Church, South River NJ.

On September 6, 2010, clergy families of the New Jersey Deanery gathered together with His Grace, Bishop +Michael, for a picnic at Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus NJ.

The faithful of Saint Innocent Mission parish in Oneonta NY have been attending services in the chapel of the Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery (Otego NY) for the last two years.  The mission parish began in February of 1997.  His Grace, Bishop +Michael, has assigned an experienced missionary and pastor to build up the community.

The 2010 Church School Year at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church in Clifton NJ began on Sunday, September 26th with a picnic on the parish rectory grounds.  During the celebration of the Divine Liturgy special petitions and prayers were offered for the students and teachers of the Church School Program.

Members of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow NY gathered on Tuesday, September 21 to sing an Akathist hymn to the Virgin Mary, asking for supplication for those afflicted by cancer. Among those in attendance were individuals currently suffering from the disease with their family members, as well as others who are in remission from cancer.

The first week in November, our Diocese will be blessed by the presence of the miraculous Myrrh-Streaming Iveron Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos from Hawaii.  In June of 2008, the Holy Myrrh-streaming "Hawaiian" Iveron Icon was officially recognized by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia as miraculous and genuine, and given the blessing to travel to the various churches and monasteries of Holy Orthodoxy.

On Sunday, September 19, Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Whitestone NY held its first "After Liturgy Parish Brunch."  The meal was preceded by the Sunday Divine Liturgy attended by a full congregation, and celebrated by Father Joseph Woodill.  On August 1st of this year, Father Joseph and Matushka Charlotte Woodill arrived at Saint Nicholas Parish having been reassigned from Washington DC.

"Open Forums" for the clergy and laity of the New Jersey Deanery of the diocese were convened on Tuesday, September 14th,  at Saints Peter and Paul Church in South River NJ.  The purpose of the gatherings was to offer an open opportunity to share thoughts, reflections, and concerns  regarding the “Working Draft of a Strategic Plan for the Orthodox Church in America" [OCA] -- prepared by the Strategic Planning Committee of the OCA's Metropolitan Council.

The Diaconal Formation Program of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey began on Saturday, September 11, 2010 with a hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Grace, Bishop +Michael at Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, Endicott NY.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael, made his first archpastoral visit to Saint Basil Russian Orthodox Church in Watervliet NY on Sunday, August 22, 2010. The sister parish of Saint Nicholas (Cohoes NY) joined the faithful of Saint Basil's for Divine Liturgy and a joint-parish picnic. About 150 parishioners and guests of both parishes enjoyed the afternoon of good food, fellowship and the opportunity to come together as one in Christ.

The first Annual Clergy Conference for diocesan priests was convened by His Grace, Bishop +Michael, on August 31st - September 1st at Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church in Clifton NJ.

The Diocesan Chancellor, Archpriest Joseph Lickwar, has released a "Summary Report" of the meeting of the Diocesan Council held on July 19, 2010.  Following the review and approval of the official minutes at its recent (August 31) meeting, His Grace, Bishop +Michael, and other Diocesan Council members affirmed their desire to communicate as openly and transparently as possible their on-going work in the life of the diocese.

This workshop, on November 6th in West Nyack NY, will explore the ministry of song and the worshipping community.  Topics include: The choir and congregation in the development of the Eucharistic Liturgy, psalmody and the antiphonal structure, the Trisagion and the Cherubic Hymns, and the Rite of Communion.

With the blessing of His Grace, Bishop +Michael, a newly established Diaconal Formation program for the diocese will be inaugurated on September 11, 2010. The Diaconal Formation program will be conducted in collaboration with Saint Tikhon Orthodox Theological Seminary.

With the blessing of His Grace, Bishop +Michael, Holy Apostles Orthodox Church has been established to provide a living witness to the Gospel of Our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ in Lansing/Ithaca NY.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael made an archpastoral visit to Assumption of the Holy Virgin Church in Clifton NJ to celebrate the parish's patronal feast -- The Dormition ("Falling-Asleep") of the Mother of God.

Friday and Saturday, August 6-7, 2010, saw 17 kids and teens - a record number - attend Saint John the Theologian Orthodox Church's third annual JOY Summer Sleep-over.  "JOY" (Jesus, Others, You) is Saint John's church school program headed by Elaine Del Gigante and has seen attendance at this summer event grow from 11 just two years ago.

The faithful of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey are invited to join in an Orthodox Pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel, Jordan, and Sinai) led by Archbishop +Seraphim of Ottawa and Canada.

The 2010 camping program is winding down at Saint Andrew's Camp and Religious Center, Jewell NY, having just finished the third and final week of camp for children ages 7-14.  This year the three weeks were developed around themes: Camping & Ecology, Music-liturgical and fun, and Horse Week.

Using an ocean-themed adventure entitled "High Seas Expedition - Exploring the Mighty Word of God" nearly 50 children, teens, and adult leaders gathered at Holy Trinity Church, East Meadow NY, for the parish's 2010 vacation church school program. Participants used scripture and outreach projects to discover the presence of God's Word in their lives. 

A Clergy Conference for all diocesan priests, and three separate "Open Forums" in each deanery to discuss the OCA (draft) Strategic Plan, have been scheduled. These gatherings were blessed by His Grace, Bishop +Michael, in consultation with the Council of Presbyters.  The clergy conference will take place in Clifton NJ from August 31 to September 1 of this year.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, presented a talk entitled "The Bishop" on July 22, 2010 at the 16th Biennial Clergy Symposium of the Antiochian Archdiocese  The theme of the symposium was: The Priesthood:  Diakonos, Presbyteros, Episcopos.  You may listen to the audio of Bishop Michael's talk online at Ancient Faith Radio.

His Grace, Bishop +Michael, is reviewing the potential and logistics to establish a diocesan Deaconate Program.  During the recent meeting of the Council of Presbyters, His Grace shared his desire to enhance and support parish ministries in all ways, including the potential of educating, training and ordaining a permanent deacon in parishes where a suitable candidate responds to this vocational calling.

Alexis Liberovsky (OCA Archivist) visited Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church for a presentation on the Autocephaly of the Orthodox Church in America.

The Strategic Plan Working Draft (Orthodox Church in America) has been released and published on the official OCA website.  His Grace, Bishop Michael, strongly encourages all clergy and faithful of the diocese to read and review the document in preparation for upcoming clergy/laity discussions in each deanery ("focus groups") leading up to the Diocesan Assembly at the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection in New York City on Tuesday, 9 November 2010.

The newly appointed Council of Presbyters [CP] of the Diocese of New York and New Jersey gathered with His Grace, Bishop Michael, at the diocesan center in Bronxville NY on July 8, 2010.  In a meeting that lasted nearly five hours, the bishop and assembled priests discussed a host of issues affecting the life of diocese. 

His Grace, Bishop Michael, hosted a picnic for the clergy families of the New York State Deanery at Saint Nicholas Church in Auburn NY on Monday, July 5, 2010.  Young and old enjoyed a wonderful day of fellowship, fun, and food with a warm (temperatures were in the high 90's) and hospitable welcome by the parish rector, Father Stephen Mack.

On the weekend of July 3/4, Bishop Michael made an archpastoral visit to Christ the Savior Orthodox Church in Paramus, NJ. Fr. David Vernak, rector, concelebrating clergy, and the faithful of the parish welcomed His Grace for the celebration of the Divine Services and an agape meal.

On Tuesday, June 29th, His Grace, Bishop Michael, was surrounded by the faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church to celebrate the patronal feast-day of the parish.  Special guests included: the Sisterhood of Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery, parishioners of Saint Innocent Mission, the priest of Saint John of Kronstadt Church in Utica NY, and parishioners residing at Valley Health Nursing Home.

The feast of Ss. Peter & Paul was celebrated here in Manville with great joy and thanksgiving to our heavenly patrons.

The parish of Saint John the Baptist in Rochester NY welcomed His Grace, Bishop Michael for three days, 18-20 June, marking his first visit to the parish as diocesan bishop.

In honor of the consecration of His Grace, Bishop Michael, and in an effort to help the Diocese of New York and New Jersey fulfill the mandate to share the Gospel, Orthodox Web Solutions is offering all parishes and institutions of the diocese seeking to get online or upgrade their website: free website setup and hosting through September 1, 2010.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, attended a meeting of the New Jersey Deanery clergy at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Bayonne NJ, on Tuesday June 8, 2010.

The following interview regarding the recent Episcopal Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Hierarchs of North and Central America, which convened in New York City on 25-28 May, was conducted with His Grace, +Michael (Bishop of New York and the Diocese of New York and New Jersey) on Wednesday, 2 June 2010.

His Grace, Bishop Michael, celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Archpriest Samuel Kedala, Rector of Holy Spirit, Archpriest George Hasenecz, founder of Holy Spirit and retired Archpriest Joseph Chupeck who is attached to Holy Spirit Church. The Divine Liturgy was followed by the Vespers of Pentecost and a Festive Banquet in the Church Hall.

Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Rochester NY held a 5K WALK-A-THON on Pentecost Sunday, May 23rd, to raise funds for scholarships to send “Kids-to-Camp” (Saint Andrew’s Camp, Jewell NY).  In all, 54 parishioners participated in the walk while 6 others provided support and encouragement by offering cold water and fresh fruit at the half-way point and refreshments at the end-point.

On Friday, May 21st, a meeting of the clergy of the New York State Deanery was held with Bishop Michael at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Endicott NY.

On Sunday, May 16th, Bishop Michael made his first archpastoral visit to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Passaic, NJ. His Grace led the community in the Divine Services and broke bread with them in a festive meal. On this day the parish celebrated its 85th Anniversary.

The student community of Saint Tikhon Seminary announced on 13 May 2010 that they are donating $1,000 toward the newly established Diocese of New York and New Jersey Parish Relief Fund. Details are in the Official Communications Release #2010.3.1. 

On Saturday, May 8, over 1000 faithful including nine bishops, a 125 clergy, and 100 seminarians and their families gathered at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Jersey City, New Jersey and celebrated the consecration of its new hierarch, His Grace, MICHAEL as the Bishop of New York and the Diocese of New York and New Jersey. [new photos added: 5/15/10.]

On Bright Wednesday, April 7th, Christ the Savior Orthodox Church in Paramus, NJ, hosted Bishop-Elect Archimandrite Michael Dahulich, the NJ Deanery, and faithful from local parishes for the celebration of the Paschal Vespers which was followed by a festive meal. 

On Sunday, February 21, 2010, clergy and faithful gathered at Christ the Savior Orthodox Church in Paramus, NJ, for the celebration of Orthodoxy Vespers.  Hieromonk Calinic Berger from Holy Cross Romanian Orthodox Church in Hermitage PA, was the guest homilist.

The youth of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church spent part of their day off from school gathered here assembling over 80 humanitarian aid packets for residents of Haiti affected by last week’s earthquake. The project, organized by the parish’s PTA, provided the children with an opportunity to spend part of their vacation day helping those in need.

On Saturday, January 2, the Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God visited Sts. Peter & Paul Church (OCA) in Jersey City, NJ. The parish was founded in 1907 by Priest-Martyr Alexander Hotovitzky, and for some time served as the cathedra of the ever-memorable Archbishop Vitaly (Maximenko). The Liturgy was celebrated by the primate of the Orthodox Church in America, His Beatitude, the Most Blessed Jonah...