“Growth in Life and Faith and Spiritual Understanding” Theme of Seminary’s Annual Lenten Retreat

CRESTWOOD, NY [SVS/OCA Communications] — The Very Rev. Steven Belonick will be the featured speaker at the annual lenten retreat sponsored by Saint Vladimir’s Seminary here on Saturday, April 16, 2005. The retreat theme is “Growth in Life and Faith and Spiritual Understanding.”

Prior to his appointment as SVS director of recruitment, alumni relations, and outreach nearly five years ago, Father Belonick served as rector of the Church of the Transfiguration, Pearl River, NY, and the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church, Binghamton, NY. During his 26 years of priestly ministry, he has conducted many retreats for adults and youth alike.

The retreat will open with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m., followed by a brunch and registration. The first theme presentation will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by the Sixth Hour and refreshments. The second presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. The retreat will end at 3:00 p.m. with closing prayers.

Retreat participants will have the opportunity to visit the seminary bookstore and are invited to attend the 6:30 p.m. Vigil service in the school’s Three Hierarchs Chapel.

While there is no charge for the retreat, pre-registration is required by sending an e-mail to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with “2005 Lenten Retreat” in the subject line. Registrations may also be sent to the seminary by mail to 575 Scarsdale Road, Crestwood, NY 10707.

Established in 1938, Saint Vladimir’s Seminary offers a variety of academic programs designed to prepare clergy, lay ministers, religious educators, choir directors, and other Church workers for ministry in the Church. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, serves as the seminary’s President.