Plans for annual August Saint Herman of Alaska pilgrimage announced

Spruce trees are adorned with various icons along the path to SS. Herman and Sergius of Valaam Chapel on Spruce Island, the home and original burial site of Saint Herman of Alaska.

KODIAK, AK [OCA Communications] — The annual pilgrimage honoring Saint Herman of Alaska will take place with the blessing of His Grace, Bishop Nikolai of Sitka, Anchorage, and Alaska here August 7-9, 2006.

On Monday, August 7, the Akathistos Hymn to Saint Herman will be celebrated before his relics at Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Kodiak, at 6:00 p.m., followed by a tea hosted by Bishop Nikolai at Kodiak High School Commons.

On Tuesday, August 8, pilgrims will depart Kodiak Harbor for Spruce Island, home and original burial site of Saint Herman, at 8:00 a.m. At 9:00 a.m., the hierarchical Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at Saints Sergius and Herman of Valaam Chapel, built over the original grave of Saint Herman. Pilgrims will have ample time to explore the island, partake of holy water from its spring, and seek spiritual renewal amidst the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.

At 6:00 p.m., the hierarchical Vigil will be celebrated at Holy Resurrection Cathedral.

On Wednesday, August 9, the Feast of Saint Herman of Alaska and the 36th anniversary of his glorification, the hierarchical Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at the cathedral at 9:00 a.m. A grand banquet will follow at Kodiak High School Commons at 11:30 a.m.

While pilgrims are expected to make their own transportation and lodging arrangements, a limited number of Kodiak area hotel rooms have been reserved. Pilgrims are urged to call the office of Saint Herman Seminary, Kodiak, at 907-486-3524 for additional housing information. Reservations may be made at the following hotels, at which pilgrims should mention that they will be participating in the pilgrimage.

Best Western Kodiak Inn; 800-528-1234.

Russian Heritage Inn; 907-486-5657.

The Shelikof Lodge; 907-486-4141.

The Comfort Inn Kodiak [7 miles from the city center]; 800-544-2202.

For information on car rentals contact Budget Rent-A-Car at 907-487-2220.

A $20.00 per adult donation is requested for the boat ride to Spruce Island to help offset fuel costs.