On December 18th, 2022, His Grace Bishop Irinej, well pleased to visit the parish of St. Nicholas in Monroeville, PA and celebrate the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. His Grace brought joy to many people, not just because of his presence but because he liturgically baptized Fr. Stefan Djoric’s daughter, Julita and also ordained Mr. Mark Matejevich to the holy diaconate.

The liturgy itself was something that was never seen in the history of the parish. The combination of various sacraments during one liturgy resulted in an incredibly rich service that brought tears to many who were present and watching the service online. Everyone had an opportunity to hear theological explanations related to the baptism and its parts as well as the holy diaconate provided by His Grace Bishop Irinej.

Before the ordination of Mr. Mark Matejevich, His Grace invited him to state his intention to be ordained. In a very touching speech Mr. Matejevich thanked many individuals who helped him come to the point of ordination particularly His Grace Bishop Irinej, his wife Pam and his family both present and departed. Upon instructing Mr. Matejevich and his wife, he ordained Mr. Matejevich to the holy diaconate.

After the sacraments of baptism and ordination were complete, His Grace blessed and cut the Festal Bread – kolach offered by the folklore group Tamburitzans and the choir of St. Nicholas Church who were celebrating their Patronal Feast Day - Slava.

The celebration continued in the Church hall where Bishop Irinej, on the occasion of “detinjci” or the day of children, tied all the kids up according to the Serbian custom until they freed themselves by giving some candies to His Grace.

Our Church community in Monroeville is endlessly thankful to His Grace for a marvelous day and Feast Day we had together which was crowned with Julita’s baptism and Deacon Mark’s ordination.

Many years to His Grace Bishop Irinej, to the newly ordained Deacon Mark and the newly baptized Julita Djoric!!!