On Saturday, November 17, the interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, celebrated Divine Liturgy in St. John the Baptist Church in Little Falls, NJ.

His Grace was co-served by the Rector of St. George Church and Chancellor of Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, Archpriest Igor Tarasov, as well as by a multitude of clerics. There were 15 priests and 3 deacons serving with His Grace on that day.

At the conclusion of the Liturgy, Fr. Igor greeted Bishop Matthew on behalf of the clergy and faithful of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA, welcoming him to the United States and wishing him fortitude in his ministry. Rector of St. John the Baptist Church, Fr. Aleksey Paranyuk likewise greeted His Grace on behalf of the parish, denoting the great joy for the parishioners to be with their Archpastor for his first service on American soil. In turn, Bishop Matthew greeted the assembled clergy and faithful, thanking them for their prayers and for the warm hospitality. At the veneration of the Cross, His Grace presented all with icons of the saints of Great Britain.

Following the church service a luncheon was served in the parish hall, so His Grace, clergy and the people could enjoy delicious meals and a nice company.