On December 12/25, the St Herman of Alaska Church in Sunnyvale, CA celebrated their parish feast day. This was an especially joyful event for the members of the parish as both our ruling hierarch, His Eminence KYRILL Archbishop of San Francisco and Western America and our new diocesan vicar, His Grace JAMES Bishop of Sonora presided together at the Divine Services.

The parish’s joy was multiplied as long time parishioner Paul Kozachenko was tonsured as a Reader and as the parish rector, Archpriest Martin Person was awarded the jeweled cross.

Following the Cherubic Hymn, Deacon Andrew Gliga was led through the Royal Doors and was ordained to the holy priesthood by Bishop James. Fr Andrew will serve as Assistant Priest at St Herman’s and will be available to serve at the Old Cathedral in San Francisco when Bishop James must travel.

Priest Andrew grew up at St Herman’s in Sunnyvale, serving in the altar and, for the past 10 years, has served as a deacon. He is a graduate of the Pastoral School of the Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America. Fr Andrew’s family is greatly loved by the parish and includes his wife Carmen (Constantina) and his three children Joachim, Elizabeth, and Justin.

May God grant many years of faithful service to the new priest Andrew and health and salvation to the entire Gliga family!

Archpriest Martin Person