Diocesan Shrine Celebrates Patronal Feast

SUMMIT ARGO, IL [DOM] — On July 26 and 27, clergy and faithful from throughout the Chicagoland area gathered at the newly designated Diocesan Shrine of St. Panteleimon in Summit Argo to celebrate the shrine’s patronal feast honoring the Holy Great Martyr and Unmercenary Healer Panteleimon.

The celebration began on Sunday evening with Festal Great Vespers, celebrated by Priest Esteban Vázquez, Diocesan Vice-Chancellor and Shrine Administrator. The responses were sung under the direction of Dr. Emil Tripa, choir director of SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Burr Ridge. Following the service, clergy and faithful remained for fellowship.

The patronal feast continued on Monday morning with the Festal Divine Liturgy, presided over by Priest Alexander Koranda, Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Chicago. Concelebrating was Priest John Kennerk, Rector of Christ the Savior Church in Chicago. The liturgical responses were led by Priest Jacob Van Sickle, Rector of Protection of the Virgin Mary Church in Merrillville, Indiana. Also present for the celebration were Priests Esteban Vázquez, Daniel Greeson, and Joseph Whittaker, as well as Deacon Paul Garklavs, a native son of St.…