We are excited to announce that Bishop Gerasim (Eliel), will visit St. Barbara’s on December 3, celebrating with us, our Patronal Feast. Although His Eminence Archbishop Alexander (Golitzin) of Dallas is the ruling hierarch of the Southern Diocese, he is aided greatly by His Grace Gerasim Bishop of Ft. Worth.
In the Orthodox Church “the office of bishop is the leading Church ministry. The word bishop (episkopos in Greek) means overseer…He is the one (ultimately) responsible and answerable before God and man for the life of his particular diocese” (Fr. Thomas Hopko). Our own Diocese of the South includes 14 states, from New Mexico to the East Coast, from Virginia to the Gulf of Mexico. It includes over 80 parishes and missions, as well as 3 monastic communities.
Orthodox hierarchs have “an identical share” in their particular vocation: that is to say, each is equally a bishop. No one bishop has authority over others. An auxiliary however, as assistant such as Bishop Gerasim, does follow directives given by the ruling bishop of his respective diocese. In practice certain hierarchs have more natural – and at times formal – influence within the life of the Church, depending on their seniority, experience and education, as well as the historical significance of their Episcopal See(s): Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, etc.
Episcopal visits are times of great joy. We greet the bishop as a father in Christ, but also as a successor of the Apostles. The faithful will formally greet His Grace at 9:30 am, December 3.
HIERARCHICAL RECEPTION:
The reception that day will be in compliance with the Nativity Fast, although fish and wine are allowed. The main dish has been planned taking the Fast into consideration, as well as His Grace’s dietary requirements. Additional Lenten dishes and desserts will be needed. A sign-up sheet is now posted in the Church Hall. Please see Matushka Christine for more information.
In addition, we have planned a cleaning party on December 1. Special choir and altar-server rehearsals will also be conducted. His Grace will be accompanied by at least one deacon, as well as a subdeacon from the Cathedral. We will see everyone on December 3. Please arrive prior to 9:30 am. Those with food, 9:00 am or 9:15 is advisable. Thank you.