On Sunday, Nov 19th, the faithful of the St. Archangel Michael parish gathered around our Hierarch, his Grace Bishop Maxim, to celebrate their Patron Saint, the Holy Archangel Michael, and all Heavenly Bodiless powers. With visiting clergy, Fr. Vasilije from Moraga and Fr. Djurica from San Francisco, and many guests from the whole Bay Area, the parish church and hall were filled with joyous hearts and smiles.
His Grace, Bp. Maxim served the Hierarchal Divine Liturgy with the guest priests and the host priest, Fr. Vido, in the new church, which is getting close to completion.
In his inspirational sermon, His Grace explained the Gospel reading in which the Gracious Lord healed the woman who was sick for a long time by touching our Savior, and right after this powerful healing, he raised the daughter of Jairus, the ruler of the Synagogue with his voice. The whole point of our existence here on earth is to be raised by our Lord. God will take away sorrow and despair by raising the dead.
At the conclusion of the Liturgy, His Grace blessed the meticulously prepared Slava bread by the hands of Radenka Minic and the boiled wheat prepared by Ekaterina and Ivan Karaslavov, praying for the well-being of the parishioners of St. Archangel Michael’s. Bishop Maxim blessed all parishioners in the full church, distributing the Antidoron.
The beautifully decorated tables in the parish hall were filled to the last seat. His Grace Bishop Maxim led the prayer and blessed the food and drinks.
The emcee, Bill Davidovich, led the guests and parishioners through the program. Bill thanked the honored guests, His Grace, the clergy, and all for coming. He recognized the many volunteers, such as the kitchen crew, Kolo sisters, parish council, and all who helped for their outstanding job in the Slava preparations.
The Kolo group “Mladost,” which means “Youth,” made their appearance with two dances and singing and brought much joy to all guests. Pavle Bunjevic, who is the folk dance instructor, was awarded upon the recommendation of Fr. Vido with an Episcopal gramata for his work and efforts with the youth in the Bay Area parishes and the St. Sava Camp in Jackson!
The next enjoyable moment was brought to the guests by the great Iskra Choir and Ensemble, which is led by Nena Lovre. The folk and traditional songs followed by Kolo dance moved many to the dance stage. It was a very beautiful celebration with a good spirit and ambiance. We were blessed with a beautiful Slava day and the presence of His Grace, Bishop Maxim. We are looking forward to the next Slava celebration!
May St. Archangel continue to bless us all.
Very Rev. Fr. Vido, Parish priest in Saratoga, CA
