His Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon attended the 87th National Convention of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cleveland-Independence, OH, June 28-30, 2013.
The FOCA’s National Bowling Tournament was held concurrently.
On Friday evening, June 28—the Eve of the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul—Metropolitan Tikhon attended Vespers at Archangel Michael Church, Broadview Heights, OH, where Archpriest John Memorich welcomed His Beatitude on his first visit as a Primate to the parish. A dinner with bowling awards was held in the parish’s picnic pavilion, enjoying the fast-free Friday.
On Saturday morning, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Archpriest William Evansky, past FOCA spiritual advisor, celebrated the liturgy assisted by Archpriest John Memorich, host pastor, John Zdinak and Daniel Ressetar and Priest Joseph McCartney. Archpriest Theodore Boback, FOCA spiritual advisor, served Vespers on Saturday evening. After a brief Service of Prayer, at which Metropolitan Tikhon presided, the convention officially opened. After a full day of meetings, Metropolitan Tikhon attended an evening reception and entertainment at the hotel, a performance of ethnic songs and dance performed by “Moscow Nights.”
On Sunday morning, Metropolitan Tikhon presided at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Concelebrants included Archpriests Daniel Ressetar, John Steffaro, Theodore Boback, John Memorich, and William Evansky; Priest Joseph McCartney; and Protodeacon Joseph Matusiak and Deacon Daniel Kovalak.
Metropolitan Tikhon presented the Order of Saint Innocent, Bronze Class, to Archpriest William Evansky and Dr. John Schultz, former FOCA President, for their many years of service to the Fellowship.
On Sunday evening, the convention banquet and dance were held. Rebecca Tesar, FOCA President, on behalf of the entire membership, expressed gratitude to Metropolitan Tikhon for his support and presence.
