The feast of the great favorite of God, Venerable Herman of Alaska, falls on December 12/25 each year – the same day that many in our nation commemorate the Nativity of our Lord, but 13 days before we will celebrate that feast on the Church Calendar. Rather, on this day annually many of the faithful from throughout the Lower Peninsula of Michigan make the pilgrimage to Lake Odessa, to celebrate St. Herman at the only parish named after him in the Diocese of Chicago & Mid-America. This year the Divine Liturgy was led by Archpriest Gregory Joyce, Dean of Michigan parishes. The Rector of the parish, Archpriest Michael Carney, led the choir. Parish Deacon Elias Reeves as joined by Deacon Dimitriy Kashchenko from our Ann Arbor parish to round out the clerical lineup for the Second Parish of the temple named in honor of St. Herman. In addition to the blessing of the Divine Liturgy on this day, the faithful also had the opportunity to venerate the relics of St. Herman – a great blessing indeed.

Following the Divine Liturgy all were welcomed to the beautiful Lenten meal that the parish sisterhood has offered their guests for many years. And something which everyone looks forward to each year. Yes, undoubtedly for the delicious food. But even more so – for the fellowship that takes place in Lake Odessa annually on this day, which is always extremely warm, and a great blessing to all. We congratulate Fr. Michael, Deacon Elias, and all the faithful on feast day of their parish!