Holy Trinity's 50th Anniversary

Holy Trinity on "Church" Street.





Last night and today Krista and I have joined in the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church here in Edmonton. This parish is served by Igumen Phillip Speranza, who is a dear priest friend of ours. Fr. Phillip used to serve down at St. Peter the Aleut in Calgary and was always so encouraging to me during my years attending there before I became Orthodox. He's an amazing man: for one, a true Sicilian, secondly a dedicated monastic... serving ALL the daily services. Amazing. Also, a committed pastor to the parish at Holy Trinity. When he came there three years ago, I think there were about 8 people... very worn out and without a lot of hope for the future. This is an inner-city parish in a very needy area. Through Fr. Phillip's committment, unfailing prayer, and just plain-old love (sometimes tough) the parish is now gradually growing and welcoming new comers. And the people are looking forward to what the future might hold. A beautiful little beacon. Oh yeah, Fr. Phillip is also a secret Bill Gaither fan!

The service was beautiful too. Bishop Job from the Moscow Patriarchal parishes served, along with Bishop Seraphim, several priests, a very melodious Deacon from St. John's Cathedral, and a whole host of subdeacons and servers! Bill Giofu, who was one of the sponsors for my chrismation along with the Jordans, was up from Calgary, so it was great to see him. Bishop Seraphim arrived late Saturday night after a snowstorm in Germany almost held him up... his luggage was lost. But he shared with us all that even this was an opportunity for him to receive love and to know that all things are really in God's hands. There was a big feast afterwards. Afterwards, at the reception, His Grace compared the "fortress" attitude that can creep up in Orthodoxy to a living, open-hearted Orthodoxy. He reminded us that we do not need to try to "protect" God or the Truth, in some sort of fearful way, but rather to grow in God's love, and thus to be formed by Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen!

Also, on a personal note, I'm applying for a new job this week that I've been invited to apply for (hope that's a good thing). My current contract with Heritage Resource Management ends at the end of December... so your prayers are greatly appreciated!

- Grace & Peace!