On Saturday, June 15th His Grace Bishop Irinej made an Archpastoral visit to his flock in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. His Grace, along with Protodeacon Milos Zdralic, celebrated the baptism of Nikolaj Grabic.  Nikolaj is the first-born son of our priest Presbyter Vedran and Popadija Svetlana Grabic. Nikolaj is named after the Patron Saint of his family, St. Nikolaj the Wonderworker, and also St. Nikolaj of Ohrid and Zica, Enlightener of the Serbian people in the New World. 

Bishop Irinej was first traditionally greeted with flowers upon arrival prior to the celebration of Divine Liturgy. Nikolaj’s baptism followed the service. It was exceptionally beautiful as His Grace offered an explanation of each step of the sacrament. He had also brought water from the River Jordan so that Nikolaj would be baptized in the same water as our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His Grace gifted him with a special opal cross from Australia.  

His godparents Rev. Presbyter Vjekoslav and Popadija Dragana Jovicic  are wonderful people that will guide Nikolaj in his spiritual life. May God grant them many years! 

Also surrounding Nikolaj during the ceremony were loving family and friends. Following was a lovely meal and celebration prepared by family and parishioners who all worked tirelessly to help make the day especially beautiful. Guests from across the country had also brought love to this joyous occasion.  

May the Lord God through the prayers of St. Nikolaj the Wonderworker and St. Nikolaj of Ohrid and Zica bless the newly enlighten child of God ,Nikolaj, to be a good servant to his Church and people. May God grant him many years!