On January 20 (Jan. 7 o.s.), 62 pilgrims gathered at Saint John the Baptist Monastery in Warwick, MA for the main feast of the Monastery- the Synaxis of St. John the Baptist. In the short time after Nativity and before our patronal feast, many friends helped the monks prepare for the Monastery’s largest gathering to date.

Our small facilities were filled to capacity with many guests from Holy Resurrection, several families who live near the monastery, and three parishioners from St. Innocent of Alaska Mission in Virginia.

The brotherhood also welcomed Fr. Patrick Tishel, and Fr. Dcn. John Williamson, who served with the Hieromonks, while Fr. Teodor Anastasoaie, Fr. Aaron W., and Mr. Gabriel M. formed a Byzantine choir that chanted for the Divine Liturgy.

After a festive trapeza meal attended by all, a parishioner from St. Innocent’s in Virginia made an inspiring presentation on the life of the Holy Martyr St. Alexander Schmorell, making available books and icons of the saint with dirt from his grave.

Through the prayers of the Holy Forerunner and of our beloved Archpastor, Metropolitan Joseph, this was a joyous celebration for the monastery, and the Hieromonks are thankful to all of our friends and benefactors who made this festive occasion possible.