On Wednesday, 30 March 2016, Archbishop Michael visited Christ the Saviour Church in Paramus NJ to celebrate the Lenten evening Liturgy of the Pre-Sanctified Gifts. Following the dismissal and final blessing, His Eminence reminded the clergy and faithful of the necessity to remain steadfast in prayer during the Great Fast, following the example of Saint Gregory Palamas who was commemorated on the second Sunday of Great Lent (27 March of this year). Archbishop Michael’s visit marked his first time serving the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy at Christ the Saviour parish. 

His Eminence was joined in the liturgical celebration by Archpriest John Nehrebecki, Priest Leonid Schmidt (parish rector), and Deacon David Maliniak. The parish choir sang the responses under the direction of Theodora Gramkow.

A covered-dish meal was offered in the trapeza (church hall) following the veneration of the Cross.