On the Third Sunday of Great Lent, the Sunday of the Precious Cross, March 14/27, 2022, Archpriest George Kurtow, Rector of Saint Seraphim of Sarov Church in Seaside, CA, was elevated to the dignity of mitered archpriest in recognition of 41 years of service to Mother Church as a presbyter. Father George had additionally served 3 years as a deacon prior to his ordination to the priesthood in 1981, which took place not long after the Glorification of the Holy New-Martyrs and Confessors of the Russian Church. As a priest, Father George served as a chaplain at the Convent dedicated to the Vladimir Mother of God in San Francisco for 17 years and has been the Rector of the parish in Seaside, CA, for 24 years.

With the blessing of the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, our Ruling Bishop His Eminence KYRILL Archbishop of San Francisco and Western America visited Saint Seraphim of Sarov Church and bestowed the miter upon Father George. 

The clergy and faithful of the Western American Diocese congratulate Archpriest George Kurtow with this award and wish him, Matushka Elena and all their children and grandchildren Many Years!