Tuesday, December 20, 2005

On the Road Again...


Okay, this is really nothing more than an excuse to post this picture. There had been some mention of the song "On the Road Again" in relation to the many travellers out there at this time of year.

But, as well, I might add that the hierarch being embraced by Willie Nelson here is none other than His Eminence, Archbishop JOHN (Metropolitan-elect) of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada. Recently there had been plans for St. John's Institute here in Edmonton ( a popular student residence and the venue for the recent Pan-Orthodox Young Adult) to be sold to the University of Alberta. But, thank God, Archbishop John stepped in and said if this were the case, he would not de-consecrate the Chapel! All of the old 'Gidos' (Ukrainian Grandpas) on the Board of the Institute came out and stood behind their Archbishop. So, thankfully, the Institute will not be sold and will still be an Orthodox presence on the U of A Campus!

6 comments:

Matthew Francis said...

It should also be known that Archbishop John was also quite an accomplished violinist as a young man.

biss said...

Yay!!!

Gabe said...

That's great news! Are they still planning to have retreats there once a year then?

Matthew Francis said...

I guess we'll find out... have to get in touch with Sarah from BC et al. It is a great venue in many ways.

kimberley francis said...

i love the chapel...how the alter area looks a little like a cave.

such good memories of the incredible sound of our "pan-othodox" christian voices blending.

may there be many more such gatherings.

Matthew Francis said...

I so agree, Kim. The chapel, with its cave-like sanctuary and its spectacular acoustics is such a warm and inviting place to pray. The height of the ceiling makes the voices linger so beautifully.