On Sunday, September 10, 2023, the stewards and friends of St. Sebastian Serbian Orthodox Mission Parish in Carson City, Nevada, gathered for Matins, Divine Liturgy, Blessing of the Kolach and Zhito, and a festive luncheon banquet all of which filled the church, the stomach, and the heart!
We were saddened to learn our beloved Bishop Maxim would not be able to join us but we welcomed Protodeacon Dragan Stojanovich and wife Vicky from Jackson, CA, photographer extraordinaire Larry Lazar Angier, and Reader Alexei Scotchinsky who served this community before moving to Florida; he recently moved to Flagstaff, AZ, so we anticipate this is one of many return visits.
The afternoon fellowship included a raffle for two gift baskets, and a beautiful recitation of a poem about The Cross in My Pocket by Tamara Koffeld. There were friends and visitors from several other cities, and even inquirers into the Orthodox Faith, who joined with us in honoring our Patron Saint Sebastian, who undoubtedly included the northern Nevada territory as part of his apostolic ministry over a century ago.
Part of the joy of today’s celebration is the hope of where we could be when we celebrate the parish Slava one year from now – please keep the growth of this community in your prayers!