Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko)

Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) (1932-2022)

Herman may be spelt German, Germanos.

Basil may be spelt Basilios, Wasil, Wasyl, Vasil, Vasili.

Swaiko may be spelt Swajko, Szwajka.

Helen may be spelt Ellen.

Hericz may be spelt Herich, Headacha.

Early life of Joseph Swaiko

On 1 February, 1932, Joseph Swaiko was born to Basil Swaiko and his wife Helen (born Hericz) in Bairdford, West Deer Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, which is a suburb of Pittsburgh.

Basil (Wasil) Swaiko had been born in Wolasauka, in what is now known as Slovakia, and he emigrated to the USA in 1910 (at age 18). After his marriage to Helen Hericz (who had arrived from Slovakia in 1913), they received from the Lord 10 children : John, Charles, Alex, Michael, Mary (Kokoruda), George, Helen (Shurina), Richard, Joseph, and Irene (Weischedel).

Joseph (almost the youngest child) was baptised and raised by his family in Bairdford as an Orthodox Christian within the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of North America (ROGCCNA) in Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Church in Curtisville, Pennsylvania. This parish was founded in 1918.

He completed his primary and secondary education in the West Deer Township school district.

Joseph Swaiko, 1950

Higher education

Joseph Swaiko enrolled in Robert Morris College, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he graduated with honours, and received an associate degree in secretarial science.

Joseph Swaiko, parents, parish priest

USA military service

Joseph (as did his elder brothers before him) subsequently began his compulsory military service in the US Army. He served as a company clerk in the Adjutant General's Corps of the United States Army, and he was stationed in Labrador and Newfoundland, Canada. He completed his military service, and he was discharged in 1959.

Military service

The American Military presence in Newfoundland and Labrador (at Goose Bay, Labrador) had begun in 1941, and the continuation of this presence after World War II had to do with “NATO” commitments and responsibilities, particularly during the “Cold War”.

Both Newfoundland and Labrador (especially Labrador) were very sparsely populated at that time, and they continued to be so. Despite the presence of other military personnel in any of the possible sites in that region, there was truly “nowhere else to go”. The remote military sites made them fit the saying about being “in the back of beyond”. Moreover, it had been only in 1949 that Newfoundland had entered the Canadian Confederation after having been a colony of the British Empire since 1610. Joseph's completion of his military obligation in 1959 coincided with the tenth anniversary of that change of status.

Bereavement, 1956

On 21 January, 1956, Michael Swaiko fell asleep in the Lord in San Francisco, California (at age 33).

Michael had served in the US Army during World War II.

After the funeral services, his body was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Michael Swaiko was survived by his parents and by all his siblings.

Saint Tikhon's Seminary, 1959

After his honourable discharge from the army in 1959, Joseph Swaiko enrolled at Saint Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary.

Saint Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary

Soon after Vladyka Kiprian (Borisevich) was assigned to serve as the Rector of Saint Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary in 1962, he chose the student Joseph Swaiko to serve as his personal secretary.

Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich)

Joseph graduated from the seminary in 1963. At that time, he received the Licentiate Diploma.

Afterwards, Joseph continued in his secretarial service with Vladyka Kiprian.

Ordinations, 1964

In March, 1964, Joseph Swaiko was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich).

He was ordained as a celibate deacon.

Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich) ordaining Deacon Joseph Swaiko

On 7 April, 1964, Deacon Joseph Swaiko was ordained to the Holy Priesthood by Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich).

Priest Joseph Swaiko

Priest Joseph Swaiko and his parents

Pastoral service

Priest Joseph Swaiko was subsequently assigned to serve on the seminary's administrative staff (in which he served as registrar), and also to serve as an instructor for the Church Slavonic language.

Central portion of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, Seminary and Cemetery

During this time, Father Joseph had also been assigned to serve as the rector of the Temples of Saint John the Baptist in Dundaff (Clifford Township), and Saint Peter and Paul in Union Dale, both in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. Father Joseph nurtured the parishes with love, and a mutual respect developed between the pastor and the rational sheep.

In 1965, Father Joseph organised the first summer camp for children at the Seminary and Monastery. He also inspired the formation of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Bloomsburg State College, and he served as its chaplain.

Father Joseph was appointed to the seminary’s accreditation committee, and he was instrumental in forming the seminary’s Board of Trustees, of which he was a charter member and secretary-treasurer. For many years he also served as spiritual advisor to the “Anthracite District” of the “Federated Russian Orthodox Clubs”, which later became the “Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America”.

Father Joseph contributed greatly to the improvement and physical expansion of the seminary and the monastery. From his early days (with the blessing of Vladyka Kiprian), he gave his time and his seemingly endless energy towards these ends.

When Saint Tikhon's Seminary was incorporated officially in 1967, Father Joseph Swaiko was one of the charter members, and he was listed as the secretary-treasurer of the corporation.

His participation in the leadership of the seminary came at a time when the seminary was in the midst of a substantial increase in the nature and number of physical facilities being prepared for the better functioning of the seminary. Many changes were also in progress with regard to the provision of higher academic standards and opportunities for accreditation of the quality of the education being given.

It was in October, 1967, that the seminary was directly involved in the establishment of the Orthodox Inter-Seminary Movement (OISM).

In 1970, following the glorification of Saint Herman of Alaska, Father Joseph (who had already long considered this step) felt in his heart that it was time to ask to be tonsured to be a monk, and that he embrace this path since not only was he devoting his whole life to serving the Lord, but he also was living already amongst the monastic brethren.

Saint Tikhon's Monastery

Monastic tonsure, 1970

On 4 December, 1970, the Priest Joseph Swaiko was tonsured to be a monk at Saint Tikhon's Monastery by Bishop Kiprian (Borisevich). He was given the name Herman, in honour of Saint Herman of Alaska, the first saint glorified in the newly-autocephalous Orthodox Church in America.

On 17 October, 1971, Hieromonk Herman (Swaiko) was elevated to the dignity of igumen.

At the same time, Igumen Herman was assigned to serve as the Deputy-Abbot (“Namestnik”) of the Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk Orthodox Monastery.

In 1970 and 1971, Father Herman participated in the First All-American Council and the Second All-American Council, which were both convened in the facilities of Saint Tikhon's Monastery and Seminary.

In 1971, Father Herman participated in the decision to renew and to pursue the quest to achieve academic recognition for Saint Tikhon's Seminary as a graduate school. More measures were taken, further to previous developments, in order to increase and strengthen the number of the faculty, and also of the quality of their academic qualifications. Although the association with Marywood College had thus far been beneficial for the seminary, it could only be a temporary measure. Marywood College provided accredited academic courses that both prepared for and supplemented theological study for students. The process of working towards accreditation for the seminary itself took time, but it bore fruit with God's help.

At the October, 1972, session of the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America, Igumen Herman (Swaiko) was elected to become a bishop.

Igumen Herman (Swaiko) was immediately elevated to the dignity of archimandrite.

Archimandrite Herman (Swaiko)

Episcopal ordination, 1973

On Friday, 9 February, 1973, in the evening, the Vigil Service of Vespers and Matins was offered in Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Metropolitan Ireney (Bekish) presided at this time. Metropolitan Ireney, accompanied by Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich), Archbishop Sylvester (Haruns), Archbishop Valerian (Trifa), Bishop Theodosius (Lazor) and Bishop Dmitri (Royster), witnessed Archimandrite Herman's Profession of Faith and his words of acceptance of his election. He was presented to them formally by Mitred Archpriest Alexander Schmemann.

On Saturday, 10 February, 1973, Archimandrite Herman (Swaiko) was ordained to the Holy Episcopate in Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Metropolitan Ireney (Bekish) presided at the Primatial Divine Liturgy, and he was assisted by Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich), Archbishop Sylvester (Haruns), Archbishop Valerian (Trifa), Bishop Theodosius (Lazor) and Bishop Dmitri (Royster), as well as Mitred Archpriest Alexander Schmemann, Priests Vladimir Petorak, Robert Kondratick and many other clergy.

This episcopal ordination was the first in the history of The Orthodox Church in America (and its predecessors) to take place outside New York City. Bishop Herman was one of the youngest persons to be ordained as an Orthodox bishop in North America.

Profession of Faith (with Mitred Archpriest Alexander Schmemann)

Before the ordination, with Mitred Archpriest Alexander Schmemann

The first episcopal blessing

Episcopal service

Bishop Herman (Swaiko) was assigned to serve as the Bishop of Wilkes-Barre, and Vicar-Bishop of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania.

Bishop Herman continued to reside in Saint Tikhon's Monastery and to teach at Saint Tikhon's Seminary. As Bishop of Wilkes-Barre, Vladyka Herman began to live in the building of the Children's Home (which had by then become a residence) at the monastery.

Former orphanage building at the monastery

In addition to his service within the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, Bishop Herman (Swaiko) served as temporary administrator of the Diocese of the West in 1975, and temporary administrator of the Diocese of New England in 1978.

Bereavement, 1979

On Thursday, 12 July, 1979, Helen Swaiko (born Hericz), mother of Bishop Herman, fell asleep in the Lord in Bairdford, Pennsylvania (at age 85).

Siwicki Funeral Home of Russellton, Pennsylvania was entrusted with the arrangements.

On Friday, Saturday, Sunday (13, 14, 15 July), at 7:00 p.m., a parastas (memorial service) was served at Saint Michael's Orthodox Church in Curtisville, Pennsylvania.

On Monday, 16 July, 1979, at 9:00 a.m., Bishop Herman presided at the Memorial Divine Liturgy at Saint Michael's Orthodox Church, and he was assisted by other clergy. Following the Divine Liturgy, he led the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Lay-person.

After the completion of the funeral services, the body of Helen Swaiko was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Helen was predeceased by her son Michael ; she was survived by her husband Basil, and by her children, Bishop Herman, John, Charles, Alex, George, Richard, and her daughters Mary, Helen, and Irene.

Bishop of Philadelphia and the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, 1981

After the repose in Christ of Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich), Bishop Herman (Swaiko) was elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America to become the Bishop of Philadelphia on 17 March, 1981. After this, he was officially enthroned as the Bishop of Philadelphia and the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania.

In May, 1982, Bishop Herman (Swaiko) was elected and assigned to serve also as the rector of Saint Tikhon's Seminary.

Monastery, seminary, cemetery, diocesan office and orphanage-residence

Abbot of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, 1982

In 1982, Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) became the official abbot of the Monastery of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk, and Bishop Herman (Swaiko) was assigned again to serve as the Deputy Abbot ("Namestnik") of the monastery.

Seventh All-American Council, 1983

On 22-26 August, 1983, Bishop Herman (Swaiko) hosted the assembly of the Seventh All-American Council, which met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He had been involved in the many preparatory meetings in advance of this assembly as well. Vladyka Herman had so far participated in all the All-American Councils since 1970, in addition to those All-American Sobors he had attended before the giving of autocephaly.

Bereavement, 1988

In 1988, Basil (Wasil) Swaiko (father of Bishop Herman) fell asleep in the Lord at Bairdford, Pennsylvania (aged 96).

The Funeral Services for the Burial of a Lay-person were offered in Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Church in Curtisville, Pennsylvania. Bishop Herman (Swaiko) presided at the funeral service and at the Memorial Divine Liturgy.

After the funeral services were completed, the body of Wasil Swaiko was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Basil was predeceased by his wife Helen, and by his son Michael ; he was survived by his sons Bishop Herman, John, Charles, Alex, George, Richard ; and by his daughters Mary, Helen, and Irene.

Grave-marker of Basil and Helen Swaiko

Diocesan pilgrimage to Russia, 1988

In August, 1988, Bishop Herman (Swaiko) led a diocesan pilgrimage to Russia on the occasion of the celebration of the Millennium of the Baptism of Rus'.

Renovations and improvements in the year of the Millennium of the Baptism of Rus', 1988

During 1988, Bishop Herman supervised the construction of many shrines and many improvements to the grounds and buildings of the monastery. These were done in part to honour the Millennium of the Baptism of Russia.

Ultimately, these improvements included the construction of a substantial mausoleum on the territory of the cemetery, to the south of Saint Tikhon's Road. After its construction, the coffins of various bishops and others were entombed there, and the name and dates were marked on the marble covering of each tomb.

Mausoleum at Saint Tikhon's Monastery Cemetery

Bereavement, 1989

On 9 July, 1989, Alex Swaiko fell asleep in the Lord in Bairdford, Pennsylvania.

After the Funeral Service, his body was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Alex was predeceased by his parents and by his brother Michael ; he was survived by his wife, Anne (born Painteric) ; by his brothers, Bishop Herman, John, Charles, George, Richard ; and by his sisters Mary, Helen and Irene.

Visits of Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger), 1993

In 1991 and 1993, Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia made fraternal visits to The Orthodox Church in America. Bishop Herman was active and involved in the organisation and progress of both visits.

Bishop Herman with Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) and Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) at Saint Tikhon's Monastery Pavilion

Archbishop, 1994

In 1994, Bishop Herman (Swaiko) was elevated to the dignity of archbishop.

Glorification of Saint Alexis Toth, 1994

The Righteous Protopresbyter Alexis Toth of Wilkes-Barre was a missionary priest, sent from his homeland in Slovakia as a Uniat, who, in order to serve and protect his flock in a hostile Latin (Roman Catholic) environment in the USA, recognised the need to lead them in a return to their Orthodox Christian heritage.

About 85 years after his repose, the grave of the Protopresbyter Alexis Toth was uncovered and opened. His body was found to be intact, that is, incorrupt. This process was guided by Vladyka Herman.

Vladyka Herman leading the uncovering of the Holy Relics of Saint Alexis Toth

On 29-30 May, 1994, the Protopresbyter Alexis Toth was glorified as Saint Alexis of Wilkes-Barre by the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America, during services at Saint Tikhon's Monastery.

Archbishop Herman (Swaiko) was responsibile for much of the organisation of the events concerning the Service of Glorification, especially at the monastery. He was also careful about the hosting of the many guests from abroad who were present on this occasion, as well as of the many local bishops.

Conference of Orthodox Bishops in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, 1994

Archbishop Herman represented the OCA at numerous events abroad, as he often travelled along with Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor). He also participated in the historic conference of North America’s Orthodox bishops in the Antiochian Village at Ligonier, Pennsylvania, 1994.

Ligonier Episcopal Assembly participants

Annual March for Life in Washington, DC

Metropolitan Herman has been a well-known proponent of the sanctity of life. For many years, he participated in the March for Life held in Washington D.C. every January. He led the Orthodox Christian participants in the event, and in defence of the unborn, he addressed thousands of attendees.

Addressing a "March for Life" gathering

1995, Guzey Icon Museum and Repository

In 1995, a museum and repository was constructed through the gift of Mr. John Guzey and his wife Lucille to Saint Tikhon's Seminary. This museum was constructed behind the old monastery bell-house (to the east of the monastery catholicon), and it contained a very large collection of holy icons and other historical items.

Belfry and the Guzey Icon Repository

Bereavement, 1997

On Thursday, 30 October, 1997, John Swaiko (Vladyka Herman's oldest brother) fell asleep in the Lord (aged 79) at his home in West Deer, Pennsylvania.

He had been a member of Saint Alexander Nevsky Church at Allison Park, Pittsburgh.

On Friday, 31 October, 1997, there was visitation and a panikhida (memorial service) served at Schellhaas Funeral Home at Richland Township, Pennsylvania.

On Saturday, 1 November, 1997, at 10:00 a.m., the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Lay-person was presided by Archbishop Herman at Schellhaas Funeral Home.

After the Funeral Service, the body of John Swaiko was interred at Mount Royal Cemetery, Glenshaw, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

John Swaiko was predeceased by his parents, and by his brothers Michael and Alex ; he was survived by his wife, Bertha (born Seibert) ; by his brothers Archbishop Herman, Charles, George and Richard ; and by his sisters Mary, Helen and Irene.

1998 Visit of Patriarch Ilia II (Ghudushauri-Shiolashvili)

On 14-26 May, 1998, Patriarch Ilia II (Ghudushauri-Shiolashvili) made a formal fraternal visit to The Orthodox Church in America (at the invitation of Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor)). In the course of his very active visit, the patriarch and his entourage were received at Saint Tikhon's Monastery by Archbishop Herman (Swaiko), who also took the patriarch into his home (in the diocesan centre) during the visit. The entourage of Patriarch Ilia II included Metropolitan Calistratos (Margalitashvili) of Kutaisi and Gaenati and Archbishop Daniel (Datushvili) of Tskum-Abkhaseti.

On 23 May, 1998, Archbishop Herman welcomed Patriarch Ilia II and his entourage to Saint Tikhon's Monastery. During that day, Patriarch Ilia II presided with Metropolitan Theodosius at the Commencement exercises of Saint Tikhon's Theological Seminary, at which time he was given an Honourary Doctor of Divinity degree. Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) had invited the patriarch also to participate in a special session of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the OCA which had been convened at that time (and which was being given hospitality by Archbishop Herman and the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania).

Conferral of the honourary doctorate

On 24 May, Patriarch Ilia II and Metropolitan Theodosius presided at a Primatial Divine Liturgy at the monastery, which was concelebrated by the bishops of the patriarchal entourage and the bishops of The Orthodox Church in America.

Patriarch Ilia II at the Great Entrance

On 25 May, Patriarch Ilia II presided with Metropolitan Theodosius at the annual Memorial Day Pilgrimage of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, and again the bishops of the patriarchal entourage, the bishops of the Holy Synod of the OCA, and many priests and deacons concelebrated.

1998 Pastoral Life Ministries Conference

On 9-11 June, 1998, the first Pastoral Life Ministries Conference was held at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, and hosted by Archbishop Herman. More than 180 bishops, priests and deacons from all parts of North America gathered for 3 days of reflection and discussion. They considered the evangelical work of the Church, various ways in which to nurture the Faithful, and ways in which to embrace those seeking Christ and entry into the Church. The convening of this assembly was in the context of the declaration of the Holy Synod that this year would focus on Church growth and missionary outreach. Metropolitan Theodosius gave the opening address.

Pastoral Ministries Conference participants

Annual Women's Retreat, 1998

On Saturday, 8 August, 1998, the fourth annual Women's Retreat (sponsored by the Department of Religious Education) was convened at Saint Tikhon's Monastery. Archbishop Herman hosted the gathering of more than 130 women, and he gave an address amongst the various presentations. All the conversations were focussed on the theme "A Spiritual Approach to Women's Needs".

Acting treasurer of the OCA, 1999-2000

On 29 September, 1999, Archbishop Herman was assigned to serve as the Acting Treasurer of The Orthodox Church in America. He followed after Protodeacon Eric Wheeler, and he fulfilled this responsibility until the end of 2000 when another treasurer was appointed.

By the time he was given this responsibility, there had already been concerns expressed and investigations initiated with regard to inadequate book-keeping and alleged missing or misused funds in The Orthodox Church in America administration. This was also occurring during the time when the Internal Revenue Service of the USA (IRS) was strengthening its regulations regarding the reporting of financial activities by not-for-profit and charitable organisations.

Bereavement, 2001

In 2001, Mary Kokoruda (born Swaiko), a sister to Archbishop Herman, fell asleep in the Lord in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Albert ; by her parents ; by her brothers Michael, Alex and John ; she was survived by her sisters Helen and Irene ; and by her brothers, Archbishop Herman, Charles, George, and Richard.

Other responsibilities

From May to September, 2001, Archbishop Herman served as the temporary administrator of the OCA, while Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) was on a medical leave of absence. He had had a major surgery, and he had begun to suffer from small strokes.

Besides this, Metropolitan Herman supervised the process that culminated in the full academic accreditation of Saint Tikhon's Seminary by the Association of Theological Schools in 2004.

During his many decades of service in the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, not only had Archbishop Herman (Swaiko) very actively cared for the welfare of the parishioners and parishes of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, but he had also paid close attention to the continuing development of Saint Tikhon's Monastery and Saint Tikhon's Seminary. He was acutely aware of the prominent place that both had in the general life of The Orthodox Church in America.

In addition to his service to the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, Archbishop Herman served The Orthodox Church in America in a wide variety of capacities (always having received the responsibility as an obedience, not as something sought and achieved). He served as chairman of the OCA Department of Finance ; vice-chairman of the Department of Missions ; member of the Board of Theological Education ; vice-chairman of the Preconciliar Commission ; episcopal moderator for the Department of Stewardship ; chairman of the Pension Board ; vice-chairman of the Office of Inter-Church Relations and Ecumenical Witness ; member of the Lesser Synod of Bishops (later called Standing Synod of Bishops).

Retirement of Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), 2002

Then, on 2 April, 2002, Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) submitted a petition to the Holy Synod of Bishops of the OCA, in which he requested the blessing to retire because of his worsening health. The Holy Synod granted his request, effective in July, 2002. The Holy Synod announced that the election for his successor would be held on 22 July, 2002, at the OCA's Thirteenth All-American Council in Orlando, Florida.

Election and enthronement as Metropolitan, 2002

After the assembly had followed the usual and established procedure for the election, the Holy Synod of Bishops announced that Archbishop Herman (Swaiko) had been chosen to become the next Archbishop of Washington and Metropolitan of The Orthodox Church in America.

He was immediately elevated to the dignity of metropolitan.

On Friday, 6 September, 2002, Metropolitan Herman met with the diocesan clergy and the staff of Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

On 8 September, 2002 (the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos), Archbishop Herman was enthroned by the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America during the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in the Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Washington, D.C. In all, there were 25 bishops, more than 40 priests and deacons and a large number of Orthodox Christian Faithful from across the continent (including guests from abroad) who participated in the service. There were also several prominent secular persons present, as well as members of the family of Metropolitan Herman. As was reported in "The Orthodox Church" periodical :

 Members of the OCA Holy Synod of Bishops led Metropolitan Herman to the High Place, or bishop’s throne, 
 directly behind the altar table.  His Grace, Bishop Seraphim of Ottawa and Canada, Secretary of the Holy 
 Synod of Bishops, read the Act of Election, after which prayers for the newly-enthroned Metropolitan were 
 offered.  Finally, Metropolitan Herman was enthroned ‘in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit,’ with 
 the hierarchs, clergy and faithful exclaiming ‘Axios !’ — ‘He is worthy !’ — three times.  

During the course of these events, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) held meetings with the various guests and dignitaries.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Washington, D.C.

Primatial service

Following Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), Metropolitan Herman was the second American-born metropolitan of The Orthodox Church in America.

Fraternal introductory visits to heads of autocephalous Churches ; visits within North America

Before long, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) followed the example of his predecessor (following the generally established custom), and he began a series of formal, fraternal visits to the heads of other Autocephalous Orthodox Churches, as is usual for every new leader of an autocephalous Church. In the manner of all such fraternal visits amongst the patriarchs, the primate of the Church does not travel unaccompanied. Later, the Holy Synod of the OCA and its administration made more specific provisions to clarify the nature and composition of an entourage of the metropolitans of the OCA.

The purpose of the visits was not simply to introduce himself to the other leaders. (As an archbishop, Metropolitan Herman had already encountered many of the other leaders during various visits he had made during the course of his responsibilities in the previous years of his archpastoral service.) Rather, the main purpose was to improve the understanding of such leaders about The Orthodox Church in America (OCA), and as much as possible to increase harmonious fraternal contacts on many levels between the OCA and her elder sister Churches. As is the normal custom throughout Orthodox Christian society, it is the responsibility of the younger to approach the elder, not the reverse. It is also to be kept in mind that not all the Orthodox Churches accepted the granting of autocephaly by the Russian Orthodox Church. Behind this is the interpretation that only the Church of Constantinople can give autocephaly.

A man given energy in generous quantities by God, Vladyka Herman undertook these visits in the midst of his many other domestic responsibilities in North America. For the most part, by stretching his personal physical resources, he managed to keep a balance of service both locally and internationally.

When Vladyka Metropolitan Herman would go abroad, as mentioned before, the custom was that the first priority was the eucharistic concelebrations with the other heads of Churches he was visiting, and also with the other bishops of these Churches. These events express and strengthen the unity of the Orthodox Christian Church. In every case, the host Churches provided an experience of that Church through visits and eucharistic celebrations in several or many places on the territory of that Church. In the course of Metropolitan Herman's visits it was also intended to help strengthen the positive perception of that Church by the local civil authorities. The Faithful of each Church would be able better to understand the multi-ethnic character of the Orthodox Christian Church (not only throughout the world, but particularly in North America). All would be able to perceive the fruit of missionary efforts made by the Church from the beginning. Besides this, there would be visits to some local civil authorities, and also to the political representatives of the USA (and sometimes of Canada) in those regions.

Primarily, however, Metropolitan Herman was regularly present in the central offices of the OCA at Syosset, New York, and he was engaged in a round of archpastoral visitations in the Diocese of Washington (normal life for any bishop). There were also visitations to various diocesan assemblies in North America, and he attended assorted other regular meetings that required his presence (such as meetings of the Episcopal Assembly, and meetings at the seminaries).

Archpastoral visit to the Mexican Exarchate, January, 2003

After his election as Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, Metropolitan Herman visited the Mexican Exarchate in mid-January, 2003. During this visit, he was accompanied by Archbishop Dmitri (Royster) of Dallas and the South, the Exarch of Mexico.

Metropolitan Herman celebrated Great Vespers and the Divine Liturgy in Mexico City’s Cathedral of the Ascension (which is quite near to the international aeroport). He served the Divine Liturgy together with Archbishop Dmitri (Royster) and the Antiochian Metropolitan Antonio (Chedraoui) of Mexico.

Metropolitan Herman serving together with Archbishop Dmitri and Antiochian Metropolitan Antonio

During the time of his visit, Metropolitan Herman also met with many of the clergy who were serving the Exarchate of Mexico, and he offered them encouragement and guidance in their missionary efforts.

Holy Ascension Cathedral, Mexico City

While he was in Mexico, Metropolitan Herman visited Metropolitan Antonio (Chedraoui) of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of Mexico. He also met with Dr. Javier Moctezuma Barragán, Cabinet Officer of the Mexican Government, and Dr. Alvaro Castro Estrada, General Director of Religious Associations, with whom he discussed religious life in Mexico in general, and future prospects for Orthodox Christianity in the country.

Vladyka Herman encouraged the clergy and lay-persons he encountered to continue to strengthen their missionary efforts in other parts of the United States of Mexico.

Bereavement, 2003

On Sunday, 13 April, 2003, Richard Swaiko fell asleep in the Lord (at age 72) at University of Pittsburgh Medical Care Hospital, Passavant, McCandless Township, Pennsylvania. He had lived all his life in Bairdford, West Deer Township.

On Tuesday, 15 April, 2003, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m., there was visitation at Siwicki-Yanicko Funeral Home, Russellton, West Deer Township, with a parastas (memorial service) offered in the evening.

On Wednesday, 16 April, 2003, at 9:30 a.m., there was a panikhida (memorial service) offered at the funeral home, after which the body of Richard Swaiko was taken to Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Church in Curtisville, Pennsylvania.

On Wednesday, 16 April, 2003, at 10:00 a.m., Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and Archpriest Alexander Poshyvajlo served the Memorial Divine Liturgy, followed by the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Lay-person.

Following the funeral services, the body of Richard Swaiko was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Indiana Township, Pennsylvania.

Richard Swaiko was predeceased by his parents ; by his wife Doris Marshalek Swaiko ; and by his brothers Michael, Alex, and John ; and by his sister Mary ; he was survived by his brothers Metropolitan Herman, Charles and George ; and by his sisters Helen and Irene.

Fraternal visit to the Church of Russia, June, 2003

On 1 June, 2003, at the invitation of Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia, Metropolitan Herman began his first official visit to the Russian Orthodox Church. He was accompanied by a small entourage of personnel from the Central Administration of the OCA. After having been met formally by Metropolitan Kirill (Gundyaev), the Chairman of the Department of External Church Relations of the patriarchate, and having rested, Metropolitan Herman was escorted to the Holy Lavra of the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius in Sergeyev Posad (north of Moscow). After venerating the holy relics of Saints Sergius of Radonezh, Innocent of Moscow and others, he also visited the Moscow Theological Seminary and Academy within the Lavra walls.

On 2 June, 2003, Metropolitan Herman served the Primatial Divine Liturgy with other hierarchs and clergy in the OCA's Representation Church of the Great Martyr Catherine in Moscow on the Feast of the Leavetaking of Holy Pascha. Archimandrite Zacchaeus (Wood) was at that time the OCA Representative to the Moscow Patriarchate. Protopresbyter Daniel Hubiak had been the first such representative beginning in 1993.

Later the same evening, Metropolitan Herman concelebrated the All-Night Vigil for the Great Feast of the Ascension at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Theophany in “Yelokhov”, Moscow.

On the Great Feast of the Ascension, Metropolitan Herman celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the recently-rebuilt Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Vladyka Herman was one of the few Orthodox primates ever to do so without Patriarch Aleksey being present. It had been intended that they serve together, but Patriarch Aleksey II was unwell at that time, and he gave the blessing that Vladyka Herman serve alone. Later that evening, Metropolitan Herman met privately with Patriarch Aleksey at his residence.

Metropolitan Herman serving with Metropolitan Kirill (Gundyaev) and Archbishop Arseny (Epiphanov)

On the next day, Metropolitan Herman met with the US Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Alexander Vershbow, after which he was escorted to the aeroport to prepare for his departure to the USA.

Fraternal visit to the Church of Constantinople, July, 2003

On Thursday, 3 July, 2003, Metropolitan Herman (accompanied by Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, Chancellor of the OCA and Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky, Director of the Office of External Affairs and Interchurch Relations of the OCA) began a one-week Fraternal Visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and to Patriarch Bartholomew I (Archontonis) in Istanbul, Turkey. The nature of this visit to the Patriarchate of Constantinople (the second visit of an OCA Primate to Patriarch Bartholomew, after that of Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor)), was very significant in its content and structure.

In addition to the conversations with Patriarch Bartholomew, Metropolitan Herman visited various historical sites, the US Ambassador and other ecclesiastical leaders (the Latin Apostolic Vicar of Istanbul ; the Chief Rabbi of Turkey ; the Mufti of Istanbul ; the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople ; several persons from Russia and elsewhere who were visiting the patriarchate also at this time). These visits were, as usual, prepared in advance under the blessing of the host, Patriarch Bartholomew. After having been warmly greeted by Patriarch Bartholomew at the headquarters of the Patriarchate of Constantinople in the Phanar district of Istanbul, the patriarch and Metropolitan Herman met for a time in the private office of Patriarch Bartholomew.

Visit of Metropolitan Herman with Patriarch Bartholomew

After this meeting, the other companions joined the patriarch and the metropolitan, as well as Grand Archimandrite Athenagoras (Chrysanis) (nephew of Bishop Christophoros (Rakintzakis) in Canada), and they discussed topics related to current matters in world Orthodoxy. As always happens on such occasions, there was an exchange of gifts. The meeting was concluded with a formal luncheon which also included members of the Great and Holy Synod of the Patriarchate of Constantinople (Istanbul).

Visits to important sites and to significant persons in and near the city

Later, Metropolitan Herman and his companions were taken to visit Istanbul’s Roman Catholic Basilica of the Holy Spirit and also the Latin Apostolic Vicar of Istanbul, Bishop Louis Pelâtre. They then visited the ancient Church of Hagia Sophia, and the Church of Saint Irene (site of the Second Ecumenical Council in 381 AD), and the 11th century Church of Our Saviour in Chora (none of these was a functioning Temple, nor had been since the Fall of Constantinople in 1453).

The following morning, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage, accompanied by Deacon Neophytos, travelled across the Sea of Marmara to Nicaea (site of the First and Seventh Ecumenical Councils). There, they were taken to the Nicaean Church of Hagia Sophia (site of the Seventh Ecumenical Council in 787 AD). They also visited the ancient Roman theatre (where more than 3,000 Christian women and children were martyred with bows and arrows), and the site of the Senatus Palace, Emperor Constantine’s Palace (where the First Ecumenical Council was held). After returning to Istanbul, Metropolitan Herman and those with him met with the USA Ambassador to Turkey (W Robert Pearson, who was ending his term). He met the entourage at the residence of the US Consul General. After a tour of the complex, Metropolitan Herman was informed about aspects of religious and secular life in Turkey.

On Sunday, 6 July, Metropolitan Herman, with the OCA representatives and others, departed by boat for Halki Island, one of the Princes' Islands in the Sea of Marmora (site of Holy Trinity Monastery, and of the Halki Theological School which has been forcibly closed since the 1970s). This trip takes about 2 hours. Metropolitan Apostolos (Dandiilidis) of Moshonissia welcomed Metropolitan Herman and those with him to the monastery and seminary. After attending the Divine Liturgy and receiving Holy Communion in the monastery and school's Holy Trinity Temple, Metropolitan Herman and the entourage were given a substantial repast, and after various talks, they returned to Istanbul.

Holy Trinity Temple at the Halki Monastery and Theological School

On Monday, 7 July, Patriarch Bartholomew and Metropolitan Herman attended Matins and the Divine Liturgy at the Temple of Saint Kyriaki for that Temple's Altar Feast-day. It is the major shrine of Saint Kyriaki. Metropolitan Onufry (Berezovskiy) of Chernivtsi, Ukraine, who was also visiting the patriarchate, was present with them. Following the services, a Trisagion (Memorial Service) was celebrated at the tomb of the late Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras (Spyrou) at the Panagia Monastery of Baloukli (often pronounced "Valuki"), on the anniversary of his repose.

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman, accompanied by Patrick Hannish of the US Consulate, met with Turkey’s Chief Rabbi, Rav Isak Haleva, as well as Bensiyon Pinto and Lina Filiba, President and Vice-President respectively of the country’s Jewish community. They spoke about the life of Turkey’s minority faith communities.

In the evening, a formal dinner was hosted by Patriarch Bartholomew at his private residence. Besides Metropolitan Herman and the OCA representatives, the guests included Metropolitan Emmanuel (Adamakis) of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of France ; Metropolitan Onufry of Chernivtsi ; Khalifa Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Islamic Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain ; and Dr. Mohammad Taher Al-Qattan, Assistant Secretary General for the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Amongst the varied topics discussed during dinner was Patriarch Bartholomew’s recent visit to Bahrain, which marked the first time an Ecumenical Patriarch had visited the kingdom.

Excursion to Ephesus

On Tuesday, 8 July, Mr. Georges Benlisoy, Secretary for the Patriarchal Library, led Metropolitan Herman and his companions on a visit to Ephesus, near Izmir, Turkey. Ephesus was the site of the Third Ecumenical Council. Metropolitan Herman and those with him visited a Roman Catholic shrine at a place the Roman Catholic Church associates with the site of the Virgin Mary’s home and of her Dormition. They also visited the Church of Saint John the Theologian, the ancient city ruins, the theatre in which Saint Paul attempted to preach, and the Temple of the Virgin Mary.

Life-giving Spring Monastery ; tombs of patriarchs

After their return to Istanbul, Patriarch Bartholomew hosted Metropolitan Herman and his entourage at the Panagia Women’s Monastery of Baloukli. Patriarch Bartholomew personally conducted a tour of the monastery, pointing out the tombs of the Ecumenical Patriarchs and the Life-giving Spring located in the monastery’s lower level.

Life-giving Spring at the Panagia Women’s Monastery of Baloukli

Other guests who attended the dinner at the monastery included Metropolitan Kirill (Gundyaev) of Smolensk, Russia, Chairman of the Department of External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, who was visiting Istanbul with Archpriest Nicholas Balashov ; Metropolitan Emmanuel (Adamakis) of France ; and Khalifa Bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain.

On 9 July, there was a private meeting of Patriarch Bartholomew with Metropolitan Herman, Father Robert Kondratick (Chancellor of the OCA) and Father Leonid Kishkovsky. Afterwards, Metropolitan Herman met with the Chief Mufti of Istanbul, Bayram Erdogan, at which time they discussed various aspects of Turkey’s religious, social, and political life. Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and those with him were received by Patriarch Mesrob II, the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople. At the end of the day, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage hosted a dinner in honour of Patriarch Bartholomew, during which there were concluding speeches expressing fraternal love and gratitude.

An explanatory statement at that time about such visits describes the main purpose for these visits in general :

 Metropolitan Herman’s visit to Orthodox Christianity’s ancient Primatial See confirms the ties which already 
 exist between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Orthodox Church in America and holds great promise for 
 ongoing contact, mutual co-operation, and a renewed and strengthened bond of love and unity.  

This published statement was demonstrated in the nature of this particular visit.

Metropolitan Herman at the 100th anniversary of the glorification of Saint Seraphim of Sarov

At the invitation of Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) travelled to Russia with a small entourage from the Central Administration of the OCA for a brief visit on 29 July-1 August, 2003. The purpose of this visit was to take part with many other hierarchs, clergy and faithful in the services that marked the centennial of the glorification of Saint Seraphim of Sarov (in Sarov, 16-22 July, 1903). The participants included not only the hierarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church, but also Patriarch Pavle II (Stojčević) of Serbia, and many hierarchs of all the other autocephalous Orthodox Churches.

After his arrival on 28 July, Metropolitan Herman travelled together with Patriarch Aleksey to Sarov on 29 July. At the Women's Monastery of Saint Seraphim in Diveyevo near Sarov, they served in the Vigil, Primatial Divine Liturgy, and other services and processions which marked this anniversary, together with the many other hierarchs. The President of Russia, Mr. V V Putin was also present.

Centennial services at Holy Trinity Sobor, Diveyevo

After the completion of the celebrations, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage returned to Moscow on Saturday, 2 August, from where they flew directly to Kyiv in Ukraine.

Reliquary of Saint Seraphim at Diveyevo

Fraternal Visit to the Autonomous Church of Ukraine, 3-13 August, 2003

On Saturday, 2 August, 2003, Metropolitan Volodymyr (Sabodan) of Kyiv and All Ukraine met and welcomed Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) upon his arrival at the Borispil Aeroport, in order to begin his fraternal visit to the Autonomous Church of Ukraine (Moscow Patriarchate). Metropolitan Herman was immediately interviewed by various reporters. Metropolitan Herman stressed the importance of such a visit for strengthening the spiritual bonds between the Church in Ukraine and the Church in North America.

In the evening, the Vigil service for the Resurrection was served in the Kyiv Caves Monastery.

On Sunday morning, 3 August, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) served the Primatial Divine Liturgy together with Metropolitan Volodymyr (Sabodan) and many other hierarchs and clergy in the Dormition Catholicon (main Temple) of the Kyiv Caves Monastery. This Temple had been destroyed during World War II, and only recently had been rebuilt and returned to service.

Divine Liturgy in Saint Sophia Sobor, Kyiv Caves Lavra

Later that day, Metropolitan Herman and the small entourage from The Orthodox Church in America were guided through portions of the Near Caves and the Far Caves. These were the original cells of the first monks, Saints Antoniy (Anthony) and Theodosiy (Theodosius) and others, who lived in caves delved out of the west bank of the Dnipro (Dnepr) River. They eventually became the underground catacomb burial chambers of the monks, and these catacombs include many small chapels as well. Many of those laid to rest in these catacombs are saints, and the bodies of many of these saints have remained incorrupt. During this time, Metropolitan Herman was apprised of the current situation of the Orthodox Church in Ukraine.

Pochaiv Lavra ; Diocese of Chernivtsi (Cernăuți)

The next day, Metropolitan Herman and those accompanying him were taken to visit the Dormition Pochaiv (Pochaev) Monastery near Kremenets in the Ternopol Oblast. En route, they visited the Korets Holy Trinity Women’s Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the Rivne Oblast. They also visited the Holy Theophany Monastery in Kremenets. Kremenets is the birthplace of Metropolitan Leonty (Turkevich), of Saint Alexander Hotovitzky and of some others who served in North America.

The entourage arrived at the Pochaiv Dormition Monastery in time for the Vigil of the Feast of the Appearance of the Icon of the Theotokos of Pochaiv.

In the morning of the Feast-day, Metropolitan Herman venerated the wonder-working icon of the Pochaiv Mother of God, the holy relics of Saint Job and Saint Amphilokhy, and the rock on which the footprint of the Mother of God is visible.

Reliquary of the incorrupt Holy Relics of Saint Job ; reliquary of the incorrupt Holy Relics of Saint Amphilokhy

He then presided at the festal Divine Liturgy in the Dormition Cathedral. There were about 20,000 pilgrims present for the feast-day. Many more than 150 clergy led the festal procession that followed the Divine Liturgy.

Pochaiv Lavra

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and his companions left for Chernivtsi, where Metropolitan Onufry (Berezovsky) welcomed them at his residence beside the city’s Saint Nicholas Sobor. As always, Metropolitan Herman received an overview of the situation of the Orthodox Church in the region he visited. Then they visited the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the city, and again there was an interview with reporters.

Holy Spirit Cathedral (left) ; Saint Nicholas Sobor (right)

The next day, Metropolitan Onufry, Metropolitan Herman and the entourage travelled to the Boian Village. In this village, in the Women's Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos, the bishops attended a Divine Liturgy served by the OCA clergy and many local clergy. The service was conducted in Slavonic, Ukrainian, Romanian and English.

Afterwards, the entourage went to visit the Holy Ascension Monastery's orphanage in the village of Molnytsia. The next stop was the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian in the village of Khreschatik. The monastery and village are situated on the south (right) bank of the Dniester River.

After this, Metropolitan Herman and those accompanying him returned to Kyiv, where Metropolitan Herman was again interviewed, and there were further visits and services within the Church of Ukraine. There were included in the visit meetings with USA and Canadian Ambassadors to Ukraine, the Ukrainian Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych, and other religious and secular leaders in the country.

Fraternal Visit to the Church of Poland, September, 2003

On 4 September, 2003, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko), accompanied by an entourage of several clergy and staff members of the Central Administration, arrived in Warsaw, Poland, for an official fraternal visit to Metropolitan Sawa (Hrycuniak) and to the Church of Poland.

The official establishment of the Orthodox Church in Poland came about after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 and the Russian Civil War. In 1992, the Government of Poland recognised the Orthodox Church on its territory (mostly in the eastern parts), and took it under its authority. It was at first led by an exarch of the Russian Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Dionizy (Waledyński). Before and after this formative period, there were many people of this territory who emigrated to Canada and to the USA, and the bonds of family relationship remain between Orthodox believers of both countries and Poland.

The first service after arrival (a Moleben of Thanksgiving for safe arrival) was at the Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene in Warsaw.

Saint Mary Magdalene Cathedral, Warsaw

Metropolitan Herman used various opportunities during his visit to draw attention to the fact that many of the Faithful in the OCA trace their ancestry to Poland (or to territories that once were a part of Poland), and that numerous hierarchs and clergy, including Saint Tikhon (Belavin), Metropolitan Ireney (Bekish) and Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich) and many priests had served the Polish Orthodox Church before emigrating to the USA and Canada. In addition to the Archdiocese of Warsaw, the Church consists of dioceses in Bialystok, Lublin, Lodz, Wroclaw, and Przymysl. The Church also maintains a graduate theological faculty and undergraduate seminary in Warsaw (The Warsaw Orthodox Theological Seminary), several monasteries (including the 600-year-old Monastery of the Annunciation in Supraśl, and the Monastery of Saints Martha and Mary on the Holy Mountain of Grabarka), a Diocese in Brazil, and a very active national youth fellowship.

Metropolitans Herman and Sawa visited Jozef Cardinal Glemp at his Warsaw residence, where they discussed the relationship between Poland’s Orthodox Christian and Roman Catholic communities. Later the same day, they were received by Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski at his residence in central Warsaw. The president showed interest in the current situation of Orthodoxy in North America. The hierarchs also were received by Mr. Ralph J Lysyshyn, Canadian Ambassador to Poland, at the Canadian Embassy. Ambassador Lysyshyn explained various co-operative efforts aimed at bolstering the development of Poland’s private sector.

Visits to the dioceses, significant sites

The hierarchs celebrated the Feast of the Hieromartyr Maxim Sandowicz, in Holy Trinity Church, Gorlice, in the Lemko region. Saint Maxim had served as a priest in North America. They served with Archbishop Adam (Dubec) of Przymysl, bishop of that region, and Archbishop Abel (Poplawsky) of Chelm and Lublin.

Holy Trinity Church, Gorlice

On Sunday morning, the metropolitans, together with Archbishop Abel (Poplawsky) and Bishops Miron (Chodakowski) of Hajnówka, and Grzegorz (Charkiewicz) of Bielsk-Podlaski, auxiliaries to the Warsaw Archdiocese, concelebrated the Primatial Divine Liturgy in Warsaw’s Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene. In the evening, Metropolitans Sawa and Herman visited the Temple of Saint John of the Ladder in Warsaw’s Wola district. It is situated at the entrance to the city’s major Orthodox cemetery. The Temple is surrounded by the graves of Poland’s deceased Orthodox primates and other historic persons. There, the 2 Metropolitans celebrated a panikhida (memorial service) for the deceased primates of the American and Polish Orthodox Churches.

The first anniversary of Metropolitan Herman’s enthronement was celebrated on Monday, 8 September (the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos) at Holy Transfiguration Cathedral, Lublin, Poland. Metropolitans Sawa and Herman concelebrated the Primatial Divine Liturgy along with Archbishop Abel (Poplawsky) of Lublin, and Archbishop Simeon (Shostatsky) of Vladimir-Volynsk, Ukraine.

Metropolitans Sawa and Herman, accompanied by the American entourage, visited the World War II era Majdanek Death Camp not far from the city-centre of Lublin (where nearly 400,000 persons, including many Orthodox clergy and faithful, perished). Later the same evening, the hierarchs of the American group attended a Moleben of Thanksgiving Service at Saint John the Theologian Church in Chełm (Kholm). It was in this Temple that Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich) of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania had been baptised. Both Metropolitan Leonty (Turkevich) and Metropolitan Ireney (Bekish) (predecessors of Metropolitan Herman) had spent some time in this city in the past.

Saint John the Theologian Church, Chełm (view from the east) ; Metropolitans Sawa and Herman at a panikhida for Metropolitans Leonty and Ireney, and Archbishop Kiprian

The next day, the hierarchs arrived at the Women’s Monastery of Saints Martha and Mary near Siemiaticze, Poland. It is on the Holy Mountain Grabarka. The hierarchs visited the nuns and prayed with them there.

Then they travelled to the Monastery of the Annunciation in Supraśl, where they inspected the reconstruction of the main Temple of the monastery.

From there, they travelled to Białystok. They visited 2 of the 12 Orthodox Christian Temples in the city : Hagia Sophia, and Holy Spirit. Then they arrived at Saint Nicholas' Cathedral. In every place, they prayed.

On the final day, the primates concelebrated the Divine Liturgy marking the Feast-day of Saint Job of Pochaiv at Archangel Michael Cathedral, Bielsk-Podlaski, Poland.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Białystok

After this final service together, everyone returned to Warsaw, and Metropolitan Herman and his companions returned to New York.

After the completion of this visit, the Holy Synod of Bishops discussed the matter of the composition of groups which accompany a metropolitan on formal visits. It was decided that such visits are of sufficient gravity that, as do other Autocephalous Churches, The Orthodox Church in America ought to include at least one other bishop in the entourage of the metropolitan when he makes such formal visits.

Fraternal Visit to the Church of Georgia, April, 2004

On 16-23 April, 2004, Metropolitan Herman travelled to Tbilisi, Georgia, for an official visit to which he had been invited by Patriarch Ilia II (Ghudushauri-Shiolashvili) and the Church of Georgia. Vladyka Metropolitan Herman was accompanied by an entourage of several people (including one bishop, and several clergy and staff members from the Central Administration).

The Church of Georgia is one of the oldest Christian Churches. The Church of Georgia has its origins according to substantiated tradition in the missionary efforts of the Apostle Andrew in the first century. There is a tradition about the preaching by other apostles in Georgia, including Simon the Canaanite, Matthias, Bartholomew, and Thaddeus. The establishment of the first Georgian eparchy (diocese) was also credited to the Apostle Andrew.

Historically, the formal adoption of Christianity by the Kingdom of Georgia (Iberia) is accepted to be the result of the missionary efforts of Saint Nino of Cappadocia (cousin of the Great Martyr George) beginning in early fourth century. In every place that Saint Nino raised the Holy Cross, a monastery was established, and these Temples exist to this day. Initially, the Georgian Church was part of the territory of the Patriarchate of Antioch. The Church was granted autocephaly by the Patriarch of Antioch in 466. Although the Church of Georgia was seriously disrupted by the invasions of the Persians and by various Tatar tribes in the 13th and 15th centuries, the autocephalous Church survived until it was placed under the administration of the synodal Church of Russia in 1811. After the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II (following the February Revolution of 1917), the Georgian hierarchs restored the autocephaly, which was eventually recognised by both the Church of Constantinople and the Church of Russia.

On Saturday, 17 April (Bright Saturday), the metropolitan and his entourage arrived in Tbilisi, and the visitors were met by Patriarch Ilia II, and also by Archbishops Gerasim and Theodore. Vladyka Gerasim (Sharashenidze) was the chief of the Foreign Affairs department of the patriarchate. After being taken to their quarters, they then visited the patriarchal headquarters, and then they were taken to visit the new Holy Trinity Cathedral, which was at that time under construction in Tbilisi. New administrative headquarters were included in the plans. After this, Metropolitan Herman was introduced to President Mikhail Saakashvili, and his wife. Then all the entourage went to the Vigil of Thomas Sunday in Sioni Cathedral. During the Vigil, it was possible to venerate the Precious Head of the Holy Apostle Thomas, and the hand-made Cross made by Saint Nino.

Holy Trinity Cathedral, presidential palace below

Sioni Cathedral

On Sunday, 18 April, Patriarch Ilia II, Metropolitan Herman and their companions travelled to the Mtskheta Cathedral for the Divine Liturgy of Thomas Sunday. This cathedral is also called “Svetitskhoveli”, which means “Living Pillar”. This term refers to the fact that here is the traditional place where the Robe of Christ (John 19:23) from the Crucifixion is entombed. This tomb dates from shortly after the Crucifixion of Christ. It is also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Apostles in Mtskheta (the ancient capital of Georgia). The Georgian bishops who served together with Patriarch Ilia II and the OCA bishops numbered 12. All venerated the Living Pillar and a 4th century Cross.

Afterwards, having returned to Tbilisi, Metropolitan Herman and his companions, together with Patriarch Ilia II and his entourage attended a private concert of classical and Georgian music by the “Synthesis” trio ; and there was a viewing of paintings by the famous 20th century Georgian artist, Elene Akhvlediani.

Mtskheta Cathedral

On Monday, 19 April, the OCA representatives participated in an Academic Proceeding (convocation) at the Tbilisi State University (most of whose students are Orthodox Christians). After this, they were taken to visit 3 monastic communities (Djvari Holy Cross Monastery, Samtavro (which remained open throughout the Soviet period), and Shio-Mgvime) with ancient roots, and which had been recently been revived, in and near Mtskheta. Because of his great labours, Patriarch Ilia II has been favourably compared with Saint King David IV "the Builder".

There was another occasion that day : a reception by the USA Ambassador to Georgia (Richard Miles) at an embassy reception.

On Tuesday, 20 April, Metropolitan Herman delivered the keynote address at the Spring, 2004, Missionary Seminar hosted by the Georgian Patriarchate. Afterwards, Patriarch Ilia II led his guests on a general tour of the monasteries in East Georgia. This region, south of the Caucaus Mountains, lies on a mixture of hills and fertile plains (a major wine-growing region).

They visited the Bodbe women’s Monastery near Signagi, Kakaheti, in Eastern Georgia, where they venerated the tomb of Saint Nino. The monastery sits on a high bluff. Founded by Saint Nino, and the site of her well-protected tomb, the monastery was destroyed several times, but it was always rebuilt, and it again thrives.

After this, they visited the Gremi Monastery near the Caucaus Mountains ; the Cathedral of the Transfiguration in Telavi, the Shavnabana Saint George Monastery Cathedral of Saint George in Alaverdi, Nearby is the Shuamta Monastery the Nativity of the Theotokos.

Patriarch Ilia II and Metropolitan Herman surrounded by requests for blessing

Lighting a candle at the tomb of Saint Nino

Bodbe Women's Monastery

On Thursday, 22 April, Patriarch Ilia and his guests travelled south to the ancient Caves Monastery of Saint John the Forerunner, and to the nearby monastery caves complex of the Lavra of Saint David Gareji.

Monastery of Saint John the Forerunner

In the afternoon, all returned to Tbilisi for a series of meetings : the Prime Minister of Georgia (Zurab Zhvania), to the Foreign Minister of Georgia (Tedo Japaridze), and with the Speaker of Parliament (Nino Burjanidze).

The visit included some cultural events which allowed Metropolitan Herman and his companions to experience many facets of Georgian life. At the conclusion of the programme, there was a visit to the regional offices of International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) in Tbilisi, This was followed by a visit to the Georgian State Museum of Art.

Patriarch Ilia celebrated his 45th anniversary of ordination to the Holy Priesthood during this visit. It was a main subject of various speeches at the concluding and farewell dinner.

On Saturday, 23 April, 2004, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and his accompanying entourage made their departure for New York.

Return of the Wonder-working Tikhvin Icon of the Theotokos to Russia, 2004

On Wednesday, 23 June, 2004, Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia and Metropolitan Herman, Primate of The Orthodox Church in America, received the Wonder-working Icon of the Theotokos of Tikhvin at the entrance to the immense Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow, Russia. Metropolitan Herman was accompanied at this time by Archbishop Job (Osacky) of Chicago, and by Bishop Nikolai (Soraich) of Sitka and Anchorage.

In the USA, during the previous week, the holy icon had been taken from Chicago, Illinois, to several places for a last farewell. Then, Metropolitan Vladimir (Kotlyarov) arrived in the USA in order to escort the holy icon back to Russia (by a private plane sent from Russia). After many prayer-services had been served before this holy icon, Metropolitan Vladimir, accompanied by Bishop Seraphim (Storheim), Archpriest Alexander Garklavs and several others, flew to Riga, Latvia. There, in the Holy Nativity Cathedral, there were services (including a hierarchical Divine Liturgy), and the people of Latvia had time to venerate the Grace-filled icon. On Wednesday morning, the entourage accompanied the holy icon to Moscow, where she was given into the hands of the patriarch at the top of the steps of the cathedral entry. Patriarch Aleksey immediately lifted the holy icon high (aided by Metropolitan Herman) ; and after showing it to all, they made the Sign of the Cross with the holy icon, and they blessed the throngs of people standing outside. Immediately, the icon was taken into the cathedral for a prayer-service, and for veneration.

Tikhvin Icon of the Holy Theotokos

This holy and wonder-working Icon had been rescued from the Nazi German Army in Riga, Latvia, by Archbishop John (Garklavs) of Chicago when he was yet a new bishop. As he and his family escaped from the coming Soviet invasion, he carried the icon with him into Germany and then to North America. Since that time, this holy icon had been kept at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Chicago until the time would become opportune for her return. Now, upon her return to Russia, a Service of Thanksgiving was chanted in the cathedral. For the next 4 days, thousands of Faithful (by some estimates, 50,000 per day) approached the cathedral in an orderly line more than a kilometre (nearly a mile) long, and they patiently waited for several to many hours for an opportunity to venerate the icon.

On Sunday, 4 July, a procession was led by Metropolitan Herman, Metropolitan Vladimir (Kotlyarov) of Saint Petersburg and Ladoga, and Mayor Yuri Luzhkov. The procession included 1,200 clergy and 250,000 people who escorted the icon. From Christ the Saviour Cathedral, the procession made its way down the city’s main thoroughfare beside the Moscow River by the walls of the Kremlin to the Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God. There, seemingly endless lines of Faithful continued to offer prayers before the icon for 3 additional days.

Procession from Christ the Saviour Cathedral to Red Square

On Thursday, 8 July, the eve of the icon’s feast-day, thousands of Faithful anticipated the icon’s arrival at the railway station in Tikhvin and joined the 3 km (2 mi) procession to the city’s Dormition Monastery. En route, the procession with the icon paused briefly in the city centre, where it was welcomed by city and regional officials. Metropolitans Herman and Vladimir, Archbishop Job, and numerous hierarchs and clergy of the Church of Russia and of the OCA celebrated the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos upon the icon’s arrival at the monastery, after which hundreds of clergy joined Patriarch Aleksey and Metropolitan Herman for the celebration of the outdoor festal Vigil, held in front of the monastery’s cathedral (in order to accommodate the large crowds of the Faithful).

Tikhvin Dormition Men's Monastery

On Friday, 9 July, the festal Divine Liturgy was concelebrated at the monastery by Patriarch Aleksey, Metropolitan Herman, 15 other hierarchs and dozens of clergy. Tears of joy streamed down the faces of many as the Holy Tikhvin Icon was once again enshrined in her original “home”. Speaking on behalf of the Faithful of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Aleksey expressed deep gratitude for the icon’s return. He noted that without the concern and efforts of Metropolitan Herman and the Orthodox Church in America, this historic occasion would not have been possible.

The Shrine of the Tikhvin Icon of the Holy Theotokos at Tikhvin Monastery

On Saturday, 10 July, Metropolitan Herman, Archbishop Job, and members of the OCA entourage attended the Resurrectional Vigil for Sunday (on Saturday evening) in the Cathedral of Saint Isaac in Saint Petersburg.

On Sunday, 11 July, they concelebrated the Divine Liturgy with Metropolitan Vladimir in the Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God (the official cathedral of the city), after which Metropolitan Vladimir once again thanked Metropolitan Herman for the return of the Tikhvin Icon. He presented a large hand-painted copy of the Tikhvin Icon to be placed at the chancery of the Orthodox Church in America.

Kazan Cathedral, Saint Petersburg

Fraternal Visit to the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia, September, 2004

On 18-26 September, 2004, Metropolitan Herman led an entourage of several people (including 2 bishops and several clergy and staff members of the Central Administration, as well as a senior priest and a subdeacon from the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania) for his official fraternal visit to Metropolitan Nikolai (Kocvár) and the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia (as well as the civil authorities of the 2 countries of Czechia and Slovakia, once called Czechoslovakia).

This visit was particularly meaningful for Metropolitan Herman personally, since his own forebears had emigrated from near this region (in Trans-Carpathia in Western Ukraine, a little farther east) to the USA many decades earlier. Moreover, a very large number of the Faithful of The Orthodox Church in America have their family roots in one or another part of this same region. For Metropolitan Herman, part of this fraternal visit was, in a manner of speaking, a pilgrimage to the homeland of his ancestors.

The Czech Lands and Slovakia (including Trans-Carpathia) were evangelised by the Orthodox Christian Saints Cyril and Methodius in the ninth century.

In the 17th century, under Austro-Hungarian imperial pressure, the Union of Uzhorod was imposed on the Faithful, who were forced to become Eastern Catholics. The revival of the Orthodox Christian Faith began in the late 19th century. As the political circumstances changed, the Orthodox Diocese of Prague was established, and in 1923, the Patriarchate of Constantinople gave it autonomy. The Serbian Patriarchate established a diocese in Prešov. During World War II, the region received its first martyr in Bishop Gorazd (Pavlik), and many others were killed in the concentration camps of the Nazi German government. Under the control of the Soviet Union (USSR), the Orthodox Faithful of this region were attached to the Moscow Patriarchate, and many parishes and people returned to the Orthodox Christian Church. The Moscow Patriarchate gave the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia autocephaly in 1951. After the “Prague Spring” of 1968, many parishes returned to the Unia, and the Orthodox Church there re-organised itself into 2 metropolitan provinces of Prague (Czechia) and Prešov (Slovakia). These provinces, whose parishioners were (for the most part) formerly native residents of these territories, experienced an immigration after 1990 from other nearby countries for the sake of finding employment. Hence people arrived from the former Yugoslavia, Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, Ukraine, and a quantity of “Roma” people, all of which noticeably increased the population of Orthodox Christians in both of the constituent provinces (countries) of this Church.

Visit to Czechia (Czech Lands) and dioceses

On Saturday, 18 September, 2004, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage arrived in Prague, where Archbishop Krystof (Pulec) of Prague met them at the aeroport.

Straightway, Metropolitan Herman and those who accompanied him were taken to visit the Monastery of Saint Prokop of Sázava in the City of Most (an increasingly active centre for local Orthodox Church-sponsored social and humanitarian efforts). They were also taken to the historic Holy Cross Church, Teplice (known for its classical baroque architecture and decoration). At Holy Cross Church, Metropolitan Herman and his companions were welcomed by the rector, Archpriest Eugene Freimann, the Mayor of Teplice Vera Smudzova, and parishioners.

Archbishop Krystof/Christopher (Pulec) of Prague

On Sunday, 19 September, Metropolitan Herman, Archbishop Krystof, and the OCA bishops and clergy concelebrated the Divine Liturgy at Prague’s historic Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral. In his remarks at the conclusion of the Liturgy, Metropolitan Herman praised the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia in its valiant efforts to rebuild its spiritual and temporal life during the past decade. He presented Archbishop Krystof with relics of the American missionary, Saint Alexis Toth (a native of Slovakia’s Transcarpathian region), and with the Order of Saint Innocent, Silver Cross. He presented the Order of Saint Innocent, Bronze Cross, to Protopresbyter Jaroslav Suvarsky, cathedral dean, and his wife Eva. He also presented humanitarian aid on behalf of the OCA Faithful to the Church’s “Philanthropia” organisation.

Afterwards, Metropolitan Herman and his companions visited the well known Memorial of the Terror of Heydrich, housed in the cathedral crypt. In the early 1940s, anti-Nazi paratroopers had been hidden in the crypt with the blessing of the Orthodox Bishop Gorazd (Pavlik), who was subsequently glorified by the Church in 1987. When the paratroopers were discovered and arrested, Saint Gorazd offered to exchange his life for those of his compatriots and the many Orthodox Christians arrested with them. Subsequently, he was imprisoned, tortured, subjected to a highly publicised show trial, and martyred.

Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, Prague

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage visited the nearby Holy Trinity Church, Rokycany, a recently-established Roma (“gypsy”) parish. They were welcomed by their Romani pastor, Priest David Dudaš. Defined as a “nation without borders” by the European Union in the 1990s, the Roma possess a unique culture and language, and they have been subjected to persecution and discrimination for centuries. During his visit there, Metropolitan Herman venerated a wonder-working, weeping Icon of the Saviour, the principal icon of the iconostas. The myrrh on the icon was visible at the time.

Holy Trinity Church, Rokycany

From Rokycany, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage were taken to Mariánské Lázně, where they were welcomed at the Saint Vladimir parish by the rector, Archpriest Josef Hauzar, clergy from numerous deanery parishes, and the Faithful. They were also welcomed at the Moscow Patriarchate’s Representation Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad), a city widely known for its spas and sanitoria, where they were welcomed by the dean, Priest Gennady Budko. In Karlovy Vary, everyone had an opportunity to drink some of the healing water.

Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Karlovy Vary

On Monday, 20 September, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage first visited the Temple of Saint George the Great Martyr at the Russian Embassy in Prague, where they were welcomed by Priest Nicholas Lishenyk and Counsellor Anatoli V Agapov.

Next, Ambassador Bruce Jutzi and Counsellor Olivier Nicoloff received Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage at the Canadian Embassy in Prague. During the visit, Metropolitan Herman spoke about the mission of the Orthodox Church in America and the Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands and Slovakia. He further discussed various far-reaching matters of concern, from poverty and substance abuse to the trafficking of persons. Areas of collaboration between the OCA and the Czech-Slovak Church were also highlighted. Similar concerns were discussed during a visit to the USA Embassy in Prague, at which Metropolitan Herman and those accompanying him were received by Ambassador William J Cabaniss.

There was sufficient time for Metropolitan Herman and his companions to stop by the Old Town Hall of Prague and to see the famous astronomical clock there. Every hour for more than 300 years, every hour of the day, the figures of the 12 Apostles appear in 2 windows above the face of that clock.

Old Town Hall Astronomical Clock, Prague

In the afternoon, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage travelled to Vilemov, where they were received at the Dormition Monastery by Bishop Simeon (Jakovlevič) of Olomouc and Brno, Igumena Alexia, and Mr. Roman Juriga (director of Vilemov’s Orthodox Centre). During the previous decade, the Centre became an important venue for youth conferences, educational symposia, and gatherings focussing on a wide range of disciplines, from ecological concerns to iconography. On behalf of the OCA Faithful, Metropolitan Herman presented the monastic sisterhood with an abundance of humanitarian aid for use in their regional and international charitable ministries.

Bishop Simeon (Jakovlevič)

Before their departure, Metropolitan Herman and his companions met with the President of the Ecumenical Council of Churches of the Czech Republic, Bishop Vladislav Volny of the Silesian Evangelical Church, and the Chairman of the Conference of Catholic Bishops, Archbishop Jan Graubner of Olomouc.

On Tuesday, 21 September (the old calendar Great Feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God), Metropolitan Herman, Bishop Simeon (Jakovlevič), the 2 OCA bishops and clergy (with others) concelebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in the Cathedral of the Holy Martyr Vaclav (Wenceslas) in Brno. The cathedral was filled to capacity. Afterwards, Metropolitan Herman presented Bishop Simeon with the Order of Saint Innocent, Silver Class, and relics of Saint Alexis Toth. Following the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage met with Brno City Mayor Josef Kamenicek and visited the city hall, where they were received by Rostislav Slavotinek, Brno deputy mayor.

Saint Vaclav (Wenceslas) Cathedral, Brno

Then they drove out to visit the Mikulčice Valy National Cultural Monument, an archaeological site marking the capital of Saint Rostislav’s Greater Moravian Empire, and the centre of the Orthodox Christian mission of Saint Methodius. The site boasts the remains of numerous ancient Orthodox Christian Temples, the earliest ones in that region. It was in this place that, in the ninth century, Saint Methodius lived and worked in a town with 12 Temples, and a population of 2,500 people. Here, in the main Temple (the third excavated) was found the first tomb of Saint Methodius. The mission of Saint Methodius here was very effective in its day, but there was strong opposition from certain civil authorities and the Western Church. Because the pope later anathematised him, his relics were removed to a monastery in Austria. As a consequence of this anathematisation, in the tenth century, the Franks destroyed, levelled and obliterated the town. It was found accidentally in excavations early in the twentieth century.

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and the entourage visited Saint Gorazd Monastery in Hruba Vrbka, the saint’s birthplace. There, they were received by Igumen Joachim.

Visit to Slovakia and dioceses

On Wednesday, 22 September, Metropolitan Herman and those accompanying him travelled across the political border into Slovakia, and to its capital city, Bratislava. There, they met first with the chairman of the Slovak Parliament, Pavol Hrušovský, and the head of the Slovak president’s office, Milan Čič. Then, at the Embassy of the USA, Metropolitan Herman was received by Ambassador Ronald Weiser. During their meeting, Metropolitan Herman discussed co-operative efforts and witness on the part of the OCA and the Church in Slovakia, as well as related topics of mutual concern. After this, the entourage visited the Temple of Saint Rostislav, where they were received by Archpriest Jozef Havercak and many Orthodox faithful. Then Metropolitan Herman and his entourage were driven to Prešov in eastern Slovakia.

On Thursday, 23 September, Metropolitan Nikolaj (Kocvár), Primate of the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia, and the Holy Synod of Bishops welcomed Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage. During the formal synodal session which ensued, numerous reports on various aspects of the life of the Czech-Slovak Church and the OCA were exchanged. Common missionary concerns were shared, with an emphasis on the rebuilding of the Church throughout the region, and the financial burdens faced in building over 100 new church buildings designed to replace properties lost after the fall of communism. The pressing need to address a growing number of social ills and moral challenges were also highlighted.

Metropolitan Nikolai of Prešov, Metropolitan Herman

After a press conference and a visit to Metropolitan Nikolaj’s residence and chapel of the Holy Cross, Metropolitan Herman visited the Prešov Orthodox Theological Faculty, which at that time had an enrolment of more than 500 students. Protopresbyter Peter Kormanik, dean, welcomed Metropolitan Herman, who addressed the faculty and students. He also met with representatives of the Church’s vibrant youth movement. A meeting with Prešov Mayor Milan Benc followed.

On Friday, 24 September, Metropolitan Herman and his companions visited Kobylnica, the village where Saint Alexis Toth had been born and baptised. They were received there by Archpriest Nicholas Lazor. Next, they visited Holy Trinity Church in Svidnik, where they were welcomed by Archpriest Jan Sovic.

Holy Trinity Church

They continued on to Medzilaborce, where Priest Jan Feckanic and parishioners received them at Holy Spirit Church.

Holy Spirit Church Medzilaborce

In the same town, they visited Saint Nicholas Orphanage, where the director, Margita Dordova and chaplain, Priest Andrei Gont, were delighted to receive humanitarian aid packages donated by OCA Faithful (the transmission of which was organised by Mrs. Arlene Kallaur at the central office of the OCA).

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage were driven into the Michalovce County Košice Province (which is near the Ukrainian border, and near the city of Uzhorod there). In the Košice Province, they visited the Church of the Ascension in Strážske. There, they met Priest Michael Dzugan and Mayor Jan Tejgi and local Faithful. In the Michalovce town, they first visited Saints Cyril and Methodius Secondary Trade School, the first such school in Slovakia, which is operated by the Church. Afterwards, they were taken to Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, where they served a moleben (prayer-service). Archpriest Stefan Jovkaj, dean, and Michalovce Mayor Jozef Bobik welcomed them warmly, as did Archpriest Ladislav Fedor, director of the diocesan chancery office. A visit to Saint Vladimir Temple, Sobrance, followed, at which Metropolitan Herman and his entourage were welcomed by Priest Bogoslav Senic.

The Temple of Saint Vladimir, Sobrance, when it was being constructed

Because, after 1989 (with the collapse of communist governments) almost all property had been taken away from the Orthodox parishes and then given to the Unia (Greek Catholics), most of the Orthodox Temples were quite new. Since 1989, the Orthodox Christian Faithful in Slovakia constructed more than 100 new Temples. They did so at their own expense, often with their own labour, and with a Christian manner of forgiveness.

On Saturday, 25 September, the Protection of the Holy Virgin Temple in Košice (a rented facility) was filled beyond capacity as Metropolitan Herman, Bishop Ján (Holonič) of Michalovce and others concelebrated the Divine Liturgy there. The Metropolitan and his entourage were welcomed by the Archpriest Kiral Ladislav, rector. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, Metropolitan Herman presented Bishop Ján with the Order of Saint Innocent, Silver Class, and Holy Relics of Saint Alexis Toth.

In Košice, the building used by the Orthodox Faithful was a former Soviet-style meeting-hall. Space was very limited, and only a few of the clergy could serve with the 2 bishops. The other bishops and clergy stood in the crowded nave. The parishioners (as many others) had been deprived of their Temple. Košice is the second-largest city of Slovakia, and the Orthodox Faithful are very numerous. They needed help to construct a new and large Temple to accommodate them. Because of this visit, funds did arrive which did help them.

Holy Protection Temple, Košice, after construction, in 2016

The remainder of the day was devoted to meetings with Košice mayor Zdenko Trebula and the region’s vice-governor, Michael Ilko.

On Sunday, 26 September, there was the sanctification of the recently-expanded Cathedral of Saint Alexander of Neva in Prešov. Metropolitans Nikolaj (Kocvár) and Herman (Swaiko), and Bishops Seraphim (Storheim), Jan (Holonič) and Nikon (Liolin) concelebrated the Rite of the Sanctification of the Temple, together with Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick and the Archpriest Michael Swaiko, dean, and dozens of local clergy. This was followed immediately by the Primatial Divine Liturgy. A group of OCA Faithful from the Cleveland, Ohio, area who were visiting family members in the region also participated in the services.

After the conclusion of the services, Metropolitan Herman was awarded the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius, First Class, the Medal of the Orthodox Theological Faculty, and an icon of All Saints of the Czech Lands and Slovakia. Metropolitan Herman presented Metropolitan Nikolaj with the Order of Saint Innocent, Gold Class, with Holy Relics of Saint Alexis Toth, and with an icon of Saints Nicholas, Herman and Alexis. Following this, there was a formal reception attended by national and regional government officials and religious leaders, faculty and students of the theological faculty, and cathedral benefactors and parishioners.

Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Prešov

Before Metropolitan Herman’s departure to the USA on Monday, 27 September, he and Metropolitan Nikolaj issued a joint communiqué :

 The Orthodox Church in America and the Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands and Slovakia share 
 a deep spiritual legacy.  It was in America that thousands of emigrants from the Czech Lands 
 and Slovakia found the truth of our Holy Orthodox Faith.  When many of these emigrants returned 
 to their homeland, they brought with them the light of this Faith and contributed greatly to the 
 renewal of Orthodoxy on their native soil.  One of these emigrants, Saint Alexis Toth, as a 
 priest and good shepherd, set the hearts of his countrymen aflame for the Orthodox Faith and led 
 thousands into communion with the Holy Orthodox Church.  He is revered today as a missionary to 
 both America and the Czech and Slovak republics.  As a sign of the deep love that unites our 
 Churches, Metropolitan Herman has presented all the hierarchs of the Orthodox Church in the 
 Czech Lands and Slovakia with relics of Saint Alexis.  Today, our communities, as local 
 autocephalous Churches striving to witness to the Gospel of Christ in our unique but related 
 contexts, are eager to strengthen further the bonds of love and faith that unite us through 
 a programme of increased contact and co-operation.

Primatial visit to the Church of Russia, 2004

In late November, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and his small suite of companions arrived in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

The accompanying entourage from the OCA included Archbishop Nathaniel (Popp) of Detroit and the Romanian Episcopate ; Bishop Seraphim (Storheim) of Ottawa and Canada ; Bishop Nikon (Liolin) of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese ; Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, OCA chancellor ; and Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky, assistant to the chancellor for external affairs. Also present was a group of pilgrims from North America who had travelled to Russia especially for this occasion.

Welcomed by Metropolitan Vladimir (Kotlyarov) of Saint Petersburg, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage were taken to visit various holy Temples and historical places in the city and its environs. The visitors could not manage to get to Kronstadt, but they were able to visit the Rila Monastery and to venerate there the Tomb of Saint John of Kronstadt. They were taken to the famous Smolensk Cemetery, and to the fully-restored Reliquary Chapel of Saint Xenia of Saint Petersburg (in the place it has always been). It was crowded as usual with pilgrims. They also prayed in the Temple in the cemetery which Saint Xenia had helped in secret to build. There followed a cursory tour of the Hermitage Museum, after which the pilgrims departed for Moscow.

Rila Monastery Tomb, Saint John of Kronstadt

Saint Xenia Chapel Smolensk Cemetery Temple

Upon arrival in Moscow, Metropolitan Herman was present at various meetings. Meanwhile, the pilgrims were given a brief tour of the Moscow Kremlin and then of the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra, together with the Moscow Theological Seminary and Academy which are within its walls.

Holy Dormition Cathedral, Moscow Kremlin

On Sunday, 5 December, 2004, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) joined Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia (along with the rest of the pilgrims) at a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy in the Cathedral of the Dormition within the Moscow Kremlin walls. After the service, it was possible to venerate the Holy Relics of Saint Peter, Metropolitan of Moscow, whose reliquary rests there.

In the afternoon, Patriarch Aleksey and Metropolitan Herman served at a Moleben at the Donskoy Monastery, at which time all the pilgrims were able to venerate the holy icon of the Theotokos of the Don, and the Holy Relics of Saint Innocent of Moscow (and Alaska). In the evening, Metropolitan Herman and the pilgrims participated in the Vigil at the Novo-Spassky Monastery. They were hosted there by Archbishop Alexei (Frolov).

On Monday, 6 December, 2004, the Primatial Divine Liturgy was served at the Holy Epiphany (Elokhov) Cathedral of Moscow. Afterwards it was possible to venerate the relics of Metropolitan Saint Alexei I. The entourage were taken to Christ the Saviour Cathedral to venerate the Holy Relics of Saint Philaret of Moscow.

After this, the North American visitors participated in the Vigil of the Feast-day of the Great Martyr Saint Catherine in the Temple of Saint Catherine-in-the-Fields. With Metropolitan Herman and the bishops were serving 8 priests, including Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, Archimandrite Zacchaeus (Wood), Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky, Archpriest Constantine White and Archpriest Oleg Kirilov. After this, the bishops took tea with Patriarch Aleksey II at his rural home near Moscow.

Saint Catherine in the Fields Representation Temple ("Podvoriye")

On Tuesday, 7 December, 2004, Metropolitan Herman and Patriarch Aleksey II (Ridiger) of Moscow and All Russia concelebrated the Divine Liturgy at the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Orthodox Church in America’s Representation Church of the Great Martyr Catherine in Moscow. Besides the North American bishops, also serving were Archbishop Arseny (Epiphanov), Bishop Niphon (Seikaly) (representative of the Antiochian Patriarchate) and Bishop Sergei. After the conclusion of the celebrations, the pilgrims were taken to the Danilov Monastery in order to venerate the Holy Relics of Saint Daniel of Moscow, of Saint Alexander Nevsky, and of the Holy Relics of Saint Panteleimon (which were at that time present and blessing Moscow with a visit).

It had been in 1994 that Patriarch Aleksey made the Temple of Saint Catherine the Great Martyr (which stands prominently on a major and historical thoroughfare in central Moscow) available to the OCA for use as its representation to the Russian Orthodox Church (a sort of ecclesiastical embassy). During the Soviet period, the buildings were used by the Grabar Art Institute, an art restoration studio, although the auxiliary buildings fell into disrepair. During the first 10 years, thanks to the tireless efforts of the parish rectors, the Temple had been restored and regained its position as a well-known central Moscow landmark. It had been only in that autumn of 2004 that the whole Temple again belonged to the Church, and that all the portions were blessed. Thereafter, the whole Temple functioned much as it had before 1917.

During his brief stay in Moscow, Metropolitan Herman informed Patriarch Aleksey about the nearly $95,000.00 in donations collected by the OCA in in September, 2004, for the victims of the terrorist attacks in Beslan, which is in the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, Russia. A Canadian Orthodox female student was amongst a group of students who brought support personally to Beslan in January, a month after the metropolitan's visit. Saint Catherine's parish (the OCA Representation) in Moscow was very helpful. Metropolitan Herman also provided for distribution of hundreds of Christmas stockings donated through funds raised by OCA parishes, youth groups, FOCA chapters, and from many persons for needy children in Russia (all organised by Arlene Kallaur at the central chancery). In addition, there had been major collections for children in Albania, Georgia, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and other eastern European countries.

From Moscow, Metropolitan Herman and the OCA entourage travelled to Helsinki, Finland.

Primatial fraternal visit to the Church of Finland, 8-13 December, 2004

At the invitation of Archbishop Leo (Makkonen) of Karelia and All Finland, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) made his begin his first official fraternal visit to the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Finland on 8-13 December, 2004. Metropolitan Herman arrived in Helsinki, Finland, beginning on 8 December, 2004, in order to make this visit.

Accompanying Metropolitan Herman were Archbishop Nathaniel (Popp) of Detroit and the Romanian Episcopate ; Bishop Seraphim (Storheim) of Ottawa and Canada ; Bishop Nikon (Liolin) of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese ; Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, OCA chancellor ; Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky, assistant to the chancellor for external affairs ; and a support staff-person.

The Orthodox Church of Finland, an autonomous Church within the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, has always maintained a close relationship with The Orthodox Church in America. It shares a common heritage centred on the Karelia region. Karelia once included substantial territory in Eastern Finland, Western Russia (now the Republic of Karelia) and Estonia. This region was the monastic home of Saint Herman of Alaska, a member of the first group of missionaries who brought the Orthodox Christian Faith to North America in 1794. The Orthodox Church of Finland is one of the country’s 2 official state religions, and she enjoys prerogatives akin to those given the dominant Evangelical Lutheran Church.

On Wednesday, 8 December, 2004, Metropolitan Herman, the hierarchs, and the members of the OCA entourage were welcomed by Archbishop Leo (Makkonen), Metropolitan Ambrosius (Jääskeläinen) of Helsinki, and other dignitaries of the Finnish Orthodox Church at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.

That afternoon, Metropolitan Herman was received by Mr. Paavo Lipponen, Speaker of the Finnish Parliament, with whom he discussed the strong ties between the Orthodox Churches of Finland and America. During his visit, Metropolitan Herman was also received by His Excellency, Earle I Mack, USA Ambassador to Finland, and Deputy Ambassador Robert Weisberg at the USA Embassy. He also met with Archbishop Dr. Jukka Paarma, Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, where he was briefed on the relationship between the two state churches.

The bishops and the entourage then moved on to Joensuu (436 km/271 mi northeast of Helsinki).

On Thursday, 9 December, they visited Saint John the Theologian Orthodox Theological Seminary in Joensuu. The seminary’s Rector, Archpriest Rauno Pietarinen, a graduate of Saint Vladimir’s Seminary, Crestwood, New York, welcomed Metropolitan Herman as he entered the school’s chapel for the celebration of a Moleben of Thanksgiving. Following the service, Metropolitan Herman delivered a lecture to the students about theological education in the OCA. He traced the history and mission of the OCA’s seminaries, and he pointed out similarities between the life of the Church in North America and that of Finland. Before leaving the seminary to visit the Orthodox Theological Department at Joensuu University, Metropolitan Herman presented Father Pietarinen with the Order of Saint Innocent, Bronze Class.

Orthodox Seminary ; Saint John the Theologian Chapel

Professor Teuvo Pohjolainen, University of Joensuu vice-rector, and Professor Petri Piiroinen, Orthodox faculty member, welcomed Metropolitan Herman at the Theological Department. They briefed the metropolitan and members of his entourage about the various graduate level courses in Orthodox theology offered by the school. A luncheon followed at the seminary.

Then Metropolitan Herman and his companions visited Joensuu’s picturesque Saint Nicholas Temple. Built of wood, the Temple is reminiscent of many built in the 19th century in Alaska. Archpriest Kalevi Kokkonen, rector, and many Faithful welcomed Metropolitan Herman prior to the celebration of a Moleben of Thanksgiving. During a reception that followed, Metropolitan Herman, during his remarks, outlined the common historic bonds shared by the Churches in Finland and America, while Father Leonid Kishkovsky discussed the Churches’ work in the field of ecumenism.

Saint Nicholas Temple, Joensuu

In the evening, Archimandrite Sergei, abbot of the New Valamo Monastery, welcomed Metropolitan Herman in the monastery Temple for the celebration of Vespers. Built in 1977, the Temple is modelled after temples in the Pskov region of northern Russia. The monastery, as its name indicates, was founded by monks who fled Russia’s Valaam Monastery at the outset of World War II. The monastery had been heavily damaged, yet the monks were able to salvage numerous icons, relics, and other ecclesiastical items now used or on display in New Valamo. Well-known throughout Scandinavia, New Valamo attracts a very large number of pilgrims and tourists annually. The Orthodox Lay Academy on the monastery grounds has been the site of numerous international and regional conferences and seminars on a variety of topics. It offers a range of courses, from theology and Church history to icon-painting and restoration and vestment-making. The monastery’s library, most of it from the original Valaam Monastery on Lake Ladoga, is housed in a separate building and it contains tens of thousands of books and historic documents, including letters written by Saint Herman of Alaska.

Holy Transfiguration Temple, Valamo Monastery

On Friday, 10 December, Metropolitan Herman and the entourage were given a comprehensive tour of the monastery grounds : the academy’s iconography, icon-restoration, the icon conservatory, and metal workshops ; the Valaam Library, and the museum, in which many precious items from Valaam Monastery and elsewhere are on display. While visiting in the monastery cemetery, they prayed at the grave of Archbishop Paul (Olmari). The archbishop, who had participated in the canonisation of Saint Herman of Alaska in 1970, was well known for his classic book, “The Faith We Hold”.

Grave-marker of Archbishop Paul/Paavali (Olmari) of Finland

The same day, Metropolitan Herman, the hierarchs, and the members of the OCA entourage visited the neighbouring Lintula Women’s Monastery, where they celebrated a Moleben of Thanksgiving, and where they were offered a warm welcome by Mother Marina (Iltola), abbess, and by Archimandrite Herman. At the monastery they toured the candle factory and grounds and they shared a meal with the sisterhood.

Lintula Women's Monastery

On Saturday, 11 December, the entourage participated in a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in New Valamo Monastery. Afterwards, Archbishop Leo, Metropolitan Herman and the others transferred to Kuopio. Metropolitan Herman and his entourage were hosted at the residence of Archbishop Leo (Makkonen). They also visited the Church of Saint John the Theologian and the Enlighteners of Karelia and the Orthodox Church Museum, where they were given a comprehensive tour by Veli (brother) Matti Sormunen. The museum boasts an immense collection of icons and other ecclesiastical items from around the world, including from Karelia, and it organises special exhibitions. The current exhibition was featuring many of the 20,000 Christmas cards from around the world received and saved over the years by Archbishop Leo.

Metropolitan Herman, the hierarchs, and those who were accompanying them prayed in Archbishop Leo’s Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Kuopio and they enjoyed the hospitality of the parishioners at their annual Christmas bazaar. Following a Moleben of Thanksgiving, Metropolitan Herman was interviewed by the media, and he then joined the entourage and the parishioners for tea and traditional Finnish fare. In the evening, Archbishop Leo, Metropolitan Herman and the other companions travelled to Helsinki.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Kuopio

On Sunday, 12 December, Metropolitan Herman, the hierarchs, and clergy members of the entourage concelebrated the Primatial Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with Archbishop Leo in Helsinki’s historic and picturesque Dormition Cathedral at the Helsinki waterfront. The classic 19th century Russian Gothic style cathedral was built on a bluff overlooking Helsinki’s harbour when the city served as a provincial capital of the Russian Empire. Together with the Lutheran cathedral, which dominates the other end of the bluff, Dormition Cathedral is the predominant landmark in the city’s skyline. Metropolitan Herman was welcomed to the cathedral by the Archpriest Veikko Purmonen, dean, and by area clergy. A reception followed in the cathedral hall.

Uspensky/Dormition Cathedral, Helsinki

Later the same day, Metropolitan Herman and his entourage visited the Church of the Ascension of Christ in suburban Vantaa, where they were welcomed by Priest Raimo Huttu, rector.

Holy Ascension of Christ Temple, Vantaa, Helsinki

On 13 December, 2004, the Feast-day of Saint Herman of Alaska, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the recently-constructed Saint Herman of Alaska Temple in Espoo, a suburb of Helsinki. The interior of the Temple is frescoed in classic Byzantine style, and it features the images of the saints of North America. Metropolitan Herman and his entourage were welcomed to the Temple by Archpriest Heikki Huttunen, rector. Amongst those attending the Divine Liturgy was a group of students from the English School of Helsinki, who sang portions of the Divine Liturgy in English.

Saint Herman of Alaska Temple, Espoo, Helsinki

Later, Metropolitan Herman and his companions returned to North America.

Repose of Archbishop Iakovos (Coucouzis), 2005

On 10 April, 2005, Archbishop Iakovos (Coucouzis), the retired Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America reposed in the Lord.

At Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in New York City, before the funeral, in the presence of Archbishop Demetrios (Trakatellis) and Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko), together with clergy of the OCA Diocese of New York and New Jersey, served a panikhida (memorial service) for the newly-departed Archbishop Iakovos. Besides the clergy, many of the Faithful of The Orthodox Church in America (OCA) from the nearby regions participated as well.

Metropolitans Herman (Swaiko), Theodosius (Lazor), Archbishop Demetrios (Trakatellis) and clergy at the panikhida

Archbishop Demetrios (Trakatellis) expressed his gratitude to Metropolitan Herman and to those present for their prayers for the newly-departed Archbishop Iakovos.

At about this time, it became apparent that Metropolitan Herman was suffering from pain in the region of his spine. This pain seemed to increase steadily in its intensity and frequency.

Centennial of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, May, 2005

At the annual Memorial Day Pilgrimage at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, 27-30 July, 2005, the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the monastery was marked.

On Friday, 27 May, 2005, Metropolitan Herman began the centennial pilgrimage with the celebration of Vespers and Matins in the monastery Temple. During that service, Bishop-elect Alejo (Pacheco-Vera) was formally elected by the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America to become the Bishop of Mexico City.

On Saturday, 28 May, 2005, during the Primatial Divine Liturgy, Bishop-elect Alejo was ordained to the Holy Episcopate by Metropolitan Herman and the Bishops of the Holy Synod.

As Bishop of Mexico City, Bishop Alejo served initially as Vicar-Bishop to Metropolitan Herman.

Blessing of new bells and belfry

Following the Divine Liturgy on 28 May, Metropolitan Herman blessed a new set of bells in commemoration of the monastery’s centennial anniversary. The bells were housed near the Temple in a specially-constructed stone belfry.

New bells and belfry ; new and old belfries

63rd Seminary Commencement

On Saturday, 28 May, in the afternoon, the 63rd commencement exercises (in other countries, sometimes called "convocation") of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary were held in Saint Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Metropolitan Herman, as seminary president, presented degrees and diplomas to the graduates. Bishop Thomas (Joseph) of the Diocese of Charleston, Oakland, and the Eastern States (of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, delivered the commencement address.

Following the events of the day, the Resurrectional Vigil was sung as usual in the monastery Temple of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk.

Blessing of the Metropolitan Theodosius Museum and Repository

On Sunday, 29 May, 2005, the Primatial Divine Liturgy was served in the monastery's main Temple.

Primatial Divine Liturgy in the Temple of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk

Following the Divine Liturgy, there was a procession of all the concelebrants and others to the facilities of the recently-completed Metropolitan Theodosius Museum (established above the new site of the Saint Tikhon's Monastery Book-store). The museum (made possible by Mr. & Mrs. John and Lucille Guzey, as they had done also in 1995) was formally blessed by Metropolitan Herman in the presence of the Holy Synod of Bishops and many guests. In addition to housing priceless icons, antique liturgical appointments, vestments, and other religious artifacts from around the world, the museum features numerous items donated to the monastery by Metropolitan Theodosius, retired OCA Primate. Archpriest John Perich, the curator of the museum, gave the hierarchs a tour of the newly-blessed museum.

Saint Tikhon Monastery Bookstore ; Museum and repository on the level above it

Curator, Archpriest John Perich, and interior of the museum and repository

It had been hoped by Metropolitan Herman and some others that in connexion with the construction of this museum (or perhaps soon afterwards) a suitable structure might also be made possible in order to house the extremely valuable archives of the OCA which have always subsisted in dangerously inadequate accommodation in the central chancellory basement (because of high humidity and frequent flooding through foundation leaks). However, for various reasons, it seemed that the proposal was premature.

On Sunday evening, over 500 hierarchs, clergy, and faithful enjoyed the centennial banquet at the [Centre https://www.eventective.com/wilkes-barre-pa/best-western-plus-genetti-hotel-conference-center-275561.html Genetti Convention Centre], Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, at which the seminary graduates were honoured.

On Monday, 30 May, 2005, the festivities began which marked the centennial anniversary of the Holy Monastery of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk. Early in the morning, the Divine Liturgy was served in the Monastery Temple for those who could not be present later. After the conclusion, a procession of pilgrims began its progress from South Canaan Corners. They walked from there to the monastery grounds, and to the outdoor covered pavilion (near the seminary buildings) where the Memorial Day Pilgrimage Divine Liturgy is usually served. There, Metropolitan Herman, members of the Holy Synod of Bishops, visiting hierarchs, and dozens of priests and deacons concelebrated the Primatial Divine Liturgy with many hundreds of pilgrims participating. On this occasion, the great majority of the Faithful present received the Holy Mysteries. Long before this celebration, a 100-voice choir had been organised so that this choir could sing the responses on this occasion. In fact, the choir that day consisted of more than 200 singers. Archpriest Sergei Glagolev was the director of this choir.

The celebrating clergy on this day included : Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) ; Metropolitan Onufry (Berezovskiy) of Chernivtsi and Bukovina, Ukraine ; Archbishop Kyrill (Yonchev) of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania ; Archbishop Dmitri (Royster) of Dallas and the South ; Archbishop Nathaniel (Popp) of Detroit and the Romanian Episcopate ; Archbishop Job (Osacky) of Chicago and the Midwest ; Bishop Tikhon (Fitzgerald) of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the West ; Bishop Seraphim (Storheim) of Ottawa and Canada ; Bishop Nikolai (Soraich) of Sitka, Anchorage, and Alaska ; Bishop Nikon (Liolin) of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese ; Bishop Alejo (Pacheco-Vera) of Mexico City ; Bishop Mark (Forsberg), former Bishop of Boston, retired ; Bishop Thomas (Joseph) of the Diocese of Charleston, Oakland, and the Eastern States (of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America ; and Bishop Mercurius (Ivanov) of Zaraisk, Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA. Amongst the other guest concelebrants were Archimandrite Gerasimos (Makris), who represented Archbishop Demetrios (Trakatellis) of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and Archpriest Michael Roscoe, who represented Metropolitan Nicholas (Smisko) of the American Carpatho-Russian Diocese.

Primatial Divine Liturgy, Centennial Memorial Day Pilgrimage

Following the Divine Liturgy, the bishops and clergy led the procession to the grave of Metropolitan Leonty (Turkevich) at the east end of the Monastery Temple. As customary, a panikhida (memorial service) was served for the holy metropolitan, whose 40th anniversary of repose was being kept on this occasion.

During the afternoon, a very large number of pilgrims participated in the Service of Intercession (Moleben) to the Mother of God and the anointing of the sick and infirm which was celebrated at the monastery's original belfry. The celebration of Vespers and Matins marked the centennial pilgrimage’s official ending.

14th All-American Council, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 17-24 July, 2005

On 17-24 July, 2005, the 14th All-American Council was convened at the Sheraton Centre Hotel in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The only other time an All-American Council had been convened outside the USA was in Montréal, Québec, in 1977 (in which Metropolitan Herman had been a participant). The hosting committee of nearby OCA parishes was led by members of Christ the Saviour Cathedral, one of the oldest Orthodox Christian parishes in the city. Amongst the usual and required items on the agenda, the following subjects were considered in plenary sessions : Vision and Identity ; Clergy Formation and Development ; Parish Health ; Evangelism ; Orthodox Relations. The international character of this assembly was accompanied by certain difficulties. For instance, crossing the international border required a passport ; the currency difference caused a difficulty when the value of the Canadian dollar unexpectedly rose substantially ; international vendors who wished to exhibit their wares at the assembly in Canada were faced with considerable paper-work at the border. Regardless, these inconveniences were addressed with a positive attitude.

As was reported in the Autumn, 2005, issue of “The Canadian Orthodox Messenger”,

 Metropolitan Herman's address to the Council on the first day set the tone of thanksgiving 
 for the past, concern and reflection in the present, and determination and hope for the future. 
 He called attention to the fact that the OCA has a long history, as evidenced by this year's 
 celebrations of the 100th anniversary of St Tikhon's Monastery in Pennsylvania and the 
 35th anniversaries of the granting of autocephaly to The Orthodox Church in America by the 
 Moscow Patriarchate, and the glorification of St Herman of Alaska. 'The experience of the 
 Orthodox Church in America and its vision of Church life, as expressed through the All-American 
 Council, are unique among the world's local Orthodox Churches.  
 
 Our understanding of the Church is not a narrow understanding.  There is a shared involvement 
 in the Church's life – by hierarchs, clergy, and laity alike.  This means that every Orthodox 
 Christian, having received the Holy Spirit, may properly express concern for the Church, 
 discuss the Church's challenges and needs, and suggest insights and answers to the challenges 
 faced by the Church, as long as this is in keeping with the Church's Faith and Tradition.  
 It is a vision and an experience which is not democratic, because it will always be the 
 responsibility of the hierarchy to ensure the purity of Orthodox Faith and Tradition.  But it 
 is a vision and an experience of conciliarity. [...] 

Concluding his address, the Metropolitan urged Council delegates and observers to a

 greater appreciation of our identity and a stronger affirmation of who we are and who we are 
 called to be. [...] We are autocephalous, yet we are also well-experienced in living in 
 relationship with the many jurisdictions also present in North America. [...] We know what it 
 means to live in diversity, in circumstances without precedent, and we possess the creativity 
 to address situations that can often be very complicated.  We bring to this our commitment 
 to good Church order and our reputation for adhering to the Orthodox Church's ecclesiological 
and canonical principles.  This is a gift we must share – and which we must share with boldness'.   

Accusation of financial impropriety, 2005

In the autumn of 2005, a public accusation was made with regard to alleged improper or incorrect management of the financial resources of the OCA in its administration. This accusation came about in the complicated course of many years of increased demand for clarity of fiduciary responsibility and management, which was led primarily by the increasingly strict rules of reporting particularly by non-profit and charitable organisations to the USA “Internal Revenue Service” (IRS). There were similar developments at the time by the Canadian government's “Revenue Canada” department, later called “Canada Revenue Agency” (CRA).

It was not only the OCA which was passing through the difficult transition from the older methods of reporting to the new. The nature of the accuracy of reporting newly-required information incurred in itself a considerable increase in the cost of providing that information (many more hours of work being required for this). This process of transition to more refined, precise reporting had already begun during the time of Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor). Because of the nature of the position of a metropolitan in particular, he is responsible for all that happens under his pastoral and practical administration. Sometimes, situations are beyond his ability to regulate them, but he remains responsible. Regardless, it was not clear at the time whether there was any ill-intent involved, but the auditing indicated that it was possible with clarity to account for the disposition of certain funds. Despite the fact that the metropolitan as the primate is ultimately responsible for what happens during his time of responsibility, it is also true that the primate has a chancellor. A chancellor's major responsibility is to supervise and to organise the operation of the office of the administration, and to ensure that it functions properly and correctly (always for the glory of God and the good of the Church).

In fact, this controversy and crisis came about through the multitude of attempts on the part of the administration of the Church (first "Metropolia" and then OCA) to survive. The North American Russian Mission had been orphaned (effectively in her childhood) after the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in the Russian Empire, and the persecution of the Church which followed. Before the revolution, there had been no excess in funds, but there had been money with which to pay clergy something, and to develop parishes. After the revolution, there was nothing. The Church in North America lived in extreme poverty afterwards ; many clergy families were destitute, and parishes lost any external support. On "starvation rations", those who had the responsibility managed in whatever way possible to continue with the help of God. Help came, but resources were always very scarce. It was in this context that many decades later, under far different circumstances, the opportunity came for a serious re-working of the system of financial management.

Change of title, 2005

In 2005, during the beginning of attempts to re-organise some elements of the structure and operation of the OCA, the title of the Primate was changed by the Holy Synod to “Archbishop of Washington and New York”. This change consolidated the 2 dioceses. Although this placed greater diocesan responsibility on Metropolitan Herman, he ably shouldered this additional burden until his retirement. [In 2009, under his successor, the 2 dioceses were once again separated by the Holy Synod, as they had been before their merger in 2005.]

Supervising re-organisation, 2006

During 2006-2007, Metropolitan Herman supervised the work of the Metropolitan Council as its task-force on reorganisation of the central administration of The Orthodox Church in America went about its work in the course of many meetings.

The Orthodox Church in America was the first of the North American jurisdictions to grapple visibly with the difficult transition in the realm of clarity and responsibility in financial accountability in the context of the IRS regulations. There were other jurisdictions that passed through this process also, although all were not quite as "open" as was the OCA process.

Visit to the Canadian Archdiocesan Assembly, July, 2007

During 17-20 July, 2007, Metropolitan Herman travelled to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where he participated in the triennial Archdiocesan Assembly of the Archdiocese of Canada. The assembly met at Saint Paul University under the theme "Christian Mission in a Pluralistic World". It was preceded as usual by a day of "clergy synaxis". Metropolitan Herman also made an unofficial and then official visit to the Annunciation to the Theotokos-Saint Nicholas Cathedral.

During the assembly, he presided at the Primatial Divine Liturgy with the members of the assembly and also visitors at the cathedral, which had been purchased 2 years previously, and which had been renovated to some extent already.

Metropolitan Herman served in the Ottawa cathedral with archdiocesan assembly members and parishioners

Feast of the Holy Transfiguration at Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Ellwood City, 2007

On 5-6 August, 2007, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and Archbishop Nathaniel (Popp) served together at the Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, for the annual Altar-Feast Day and pilgrimage at the monastery.

Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko), Archbishop Nathaniel (Popp) at Vespers in the monastery

Centennial of Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Montréal, Québec, Canada, 2007

On 21-22 October, 2007, Metropolitan Herman presided at the 100th Anniversary of Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Montréal, Québec, Canada. This parish had been the host of the 5th All-American Council in 1977, and it had been visited 5 years previously by Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), on the 25th anniversary of his election as metropolitan.

People had travelled from all over the country to attend this historic weekend. On this occasion, a "Spisok" (blessed copy) of the Port Arthur Icon of the Theotokos was in the Temple during visits across Canada.

After being greeted with bread and salt, Metropolitan Herman was "met with glory" (this means that he was met at the entrance by Bishop Seraphim and all the serving clergy, that Metropolitan Herman was vested in the "mantiya", and that he was escorted by all to "solea", from which he blessed all those present). Then he presided at the Resurrectional Vigil for Sunday.

At 9:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, the Primatial Divine Liturgy began, with nearly 400 people in attendance. Serving with Metropolitan Herman were Archbishop Seraphim (Storheim), Bishop Job (Smakouz) (Moscow Patriarchate), Archpriest Anatoliy Melnyk, Archpriest Alexander Janowski, Archpriest Nicolas Boldireff, Hieromonk Basile (Paradis), Archdeacon Alexei Klimachev, Deacon Gregory Scratch, and other subdeacons, readers, and servers from all over Canada. The choir sang in Slavonic, the Epistle was read first in English and then in Slavonic by the deacon and a reader, and the Gospel was read in Slavonic by Archdeacon Alexei Klimachev. Bishop Job (Smakouz) gave the homily in Russian.

At the end of the Liturgy, the sun came out just in time for the great festal procession. It was an very long one, with every person present participating. As clergy and Faithful processed around the Temple, at each of the 4 sides the hierarchs sprinkled everyone with holy water. Then at the front door Metropolitan Herman read the Gospel passage in English. After the conclusion, a festal dinner was served a block away at the Restaurant La Mer. There followed several speeches and presentations about the significant history of this parish and its important historical role in the Archdiocese of Canada, and special commemorative medals were awarded to many.

Vladyka Herman venerating the Port Arthur Icon of the Holy Theotokos

Metropolitan Herman ; Archbishop Seraphim ; Bishop Job

Historical presentation by Starosta Yuri Mikhailovich Kuchugura

Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Montréal

Repose of Archbishop Peter (L'Huillier) of New York and New Jersey, 2007

On 19 November, 2007, Archbishop Pierre (L'Huillier) fell asleep in the Lord in New York City.

On Tuesday, 27 November, 2007, at 7:00 p.m., Metropolitan Herman presided at the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch, along with members of the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America at the Cathedral of the Holy Protection in New York City.

On Wednesday, 28 November, 2007, at 9:00 a.m., in the Cathedral of the Holy Protection in New York City, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) presided at a Memorial Hierarchical Divine Liturgy together with members of the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America. After the Divine Liturgy, a final Memorial Litiya was served for the newly-departed Archbishop Peter (L'Huillier).

Following the funeral services, the body of Archbishop Peter (L'Huillier) was interred at Saint Tikhon's Monastery Cemetery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania.

Visit of Pope Benedict XVI, 2008

On Friday, 18 April, 2008, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) (accompanied by several clergy of the Central Administration and members of the North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation) participated in an ecumenical gathering at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church in New York City, for a meeting with Pope Benedict XVI, who was making his first visit to the USA.

Repose of Archbishop Gregory (Afonsky) of Sitka and Alaska, 2008

On Tuesday, 15 April, 2008, Archbishop Gregory (Afonsky) fell asleep in the Lord in his home at Jackson, Ocean County, New Jersey (to where he had retired from Alaska in 1995, because of failing health). He had served for 22 years as the ruling bishop of Alaska (the longest period of service of any Orthodox bishop in Alaska until then). He reposed 2 days before his 83rd birthday.

On Lazarus Saturday, 19 April, 2008, during the Funeral Services for the newly-departed Archbishop Gregory (Afonsky) of Alaska, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) presided at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m., in the Nativity of the Holy Virgin Church in Jackson, New Jersey, and at the interment thereafter in the parish cemetery.

Bishop Tikhon (Mollard) had led the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch the evening before (when Metropolitan Herman's presence was required elsewhere).

After the funeral services, the body of Archbishop Gregory (Afonsky) was interred at Saint Vladimir's Russian Orthodox Cemetery, Jackson, Ocean County, New Jersey.

Retirement, 2008

Apart from the controversies that were circulating about financial matters, Metropolitan Herman had been increasingly suffering for some time (quite uncharacteristically) from pain in the region of his spine. The pain had begun to be excruciating for him, and he had to seek medical opinions. It would be a long time before the precise reason for the pain would be understood. It was nevertheless debilitating.

In the context of this pain, and in the context of the financial accusations, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) requested of the Holy Synod the blessing to retire from active service.

On 4 September, 2008, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America granted Metropolitan Herman’s request to retire from the Metropolitan See.

He was given retirement with the title “Former Archbishop of Washington and New York, Metropolitan of All America and Canada”. In retirement, he was to continue to be addressed as “His Beatitude”.

Upon retirement, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) had the blessing to live in a house that he had inherited on the grounds of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, and he was able to serve occasionally in various places. Otherwise, he and his cell-attendant Martin Paluch lived a private, prayerful life in the residence. His health was never again as vigorous as had been his characteristic for the majority of his life.

By 2019, Metropolitan Herman had lived for 60 years at Saint Tikhon's Monastery.

Bereavement, 2011

On 6 June, 2011, George Swaiko fell asleep in the Lord at age 86, after having suffered with melanoma.

As did other members of his family, George had served in the USA armed forces during World War II. He had remained within that service for many years afterwards.

A funeral Mass and burial service (including full military honours), was held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, 11 June, at Our Lady of the Fields Catholic Church in Millersville, Maryland.

After the funeral services, his body was interred in Our Lady of the Field Cemetery, Millersville, Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

George was predeceased by his parents ; by his brothers Michael, John, Alex and Richard ; by his sister Mary. He was survived his wife, Martha, and other immediate family members ; by his brothers Metropolitan Herman, and Charles ; by his sisters Helen and Irene.

Bereavement, 2019

On Thursday, 28 February, 2019, Charles Swaiko fell asleep in the Lord at Cabot, Butler County, Pennsylvania (at age 99).

He had lived most of his life in Bairdford, Pennsylvania, and he was a member of Saint Michael's Orthodox Church in Curtisville. He served in the USA Army during World War II (as did other family members). He served in North Africa and Europe. He had then worked both as a union carpenter in San Francisco, California, and as a coal miner in Bairdford (as did other family members).

On Saturday, 2 March, 2019, at 11:00 a.m., the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Lay-person was offered by Archpriest Alexander Poshvyajlo (rector of Saint Michael's Orthodox Church) in the Siwicki-Yanicko Funeral Home in Russellton, West Deer. Metropolitan Herman was unable to participate.

After the funeral service was completed, the body of Charles Swaiko was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

He had been predeceased by his parents ; by his brothers, John, Alex, Michael, George and Richard ; by his sister Mary. He was survived by his brother, Metropolitan Herman ; and by his sisters, Helen and Irene.

Bereavement, 2019

On Friday, 31 May, 2019, Irene Weischedel (born Swaiko) fell asleep in the Lord at Clinton Township, Butler County, Pennsylvania.

On Tuesday, 4 June, 2019, visitors were received from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Siwicki-Yanicko Funeral Home, Russellton. At 7:00 p.m., a parastas (memorial service) was served in the funeral home.

On Wednesday, 5 June, 2019, at 9:30 a.m., a panikhida (memorial service) was served in the funeral home. Afterwards the body of Irene Weischedel was taken to Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Church in Curtisville, Pennsylvania. There, at 10:00 a.m., a Memorial Divine Liturgy was served by Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and the rector, Archpriest Alexander Poshyvajlo. Afterwards, the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Lay-person was served by Vladyka Herman and Father Alexander.

Following the funeral services, the body of Irene Weischedel was interred at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Dorseyville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Irene was predeceased by her parents ; by her husband Fred Weischedel ; by her brothers John, Charles, Alex, Michael, George and Richard ; by her sister Mary. She was survived by her brother, Metropolitan Herman ; by her sister, Helen ; and by other members of her immediate family.

Repose, 2022

Metropolitan Herman had been ill for a long period of time ; but with help and support, he was able to remain in his home at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, at South Canaan, Pennsylvania. He remained alert and aware throughout.

On Tuesday, 6 September, 2022, Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) fell asleep in the Lord at his home at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania.

On Wednesday, 14 September, 2022, from 4:00-6:00 p.m., there was a visitation and viewing of the body of Metropolitan Herman in the coffin at Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The viewing was followed at 6:00 p.m. by the serving of a Panikhida at Holy Resurrection Cathedral.

On Thursday, 15 September, 2022, the body of Metropolitan was transported from Wilkes-Barre to Saint Tikhon’s Monastery.

At 3:00 p.m., the arrival of the coffin with the body of Metropolitan Herman at the monastery was followed by a Litya Service (a Trisagion, or short Memorial Service).

In the Catholicon of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, at 4:30 p.m., Daily Vespers and Matins were served as customarily by the brotherhood (in the presence of the body of the newly-departed Metropolitan Herman).

In the Catholicon of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, at 7:00 p.m., the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch was served. Before the beginning, Archpriest Alexander Rentel, Chancellor of The Orthodox Church in America, read aloud letters of condolence from various North American Church leaders. Metropolitan Tikhon (Mollard) led the service, along with 4 bishops, many priests, and 2 deacons.

On Friday, 16 September, 2022, at 8:30 a.m., there was the reading of the Hours, following the entrance and vesting of Metropolitan Tikhon (within the Altar).

At 9:00 a.m., the Primatial Hierarchical Memorial Divine Liturgy was served by Metropolitan Tikhon (Mollard), together with other bishops, priests and deacons.

After the completion of the funeral obsequies, a procession formed, and the coffin with the body of Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) was carried to the Monastery Cemetery for interment.

This was followed by the serving of a memorial meal in the monastery's trapeza (dining-hall).

Metropolitan Herman was predeceased by his parents ; by his brothers John, Charles, Alex, Michael, George and Richard ; by his sister Irene. He was survived by his sister, Helen Shurina.

Reading of condolences (left) ; The Funeral Service for a Hierarch (right)

Metropolitan Herman Funeral Service (left) ; Metropolitan Tikhon (Mollard)'s homily (right)

Metropolitan Tikhon (Mollard) at the Last Kiss, and bishops (left) ; Clergy and Faithful Last Kiss (right)

— Bishop of Wilkes-Barre 1973-1981. Preceded by : ____. Succeeded by : ____.

— Vicar-Bishop of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania.

— Bishop of Philadelphia 1981-1994. Preceded by : Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich).

— Archbishop of Philadelphia 1994-2002. Succeeded by : Bishop Tikhon (Mollard).

— Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of All America and Canada 2002-2008. Preceded by : Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor). Succeeded by : Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen).

— Former Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of All America and Canada 2008-2022.

Reflections

As is usually the case with patriarchs and other heads of local Churches, there is criticism (often politicised) of their behaviours and decisions by those within the Church who disagree with them about one or another matter, and by those outside the Church who have a different perception of the world and of situations. An assessment of such a person cannot be limited to one or even several matters. Rather, it must consider the whole of the person's life and service. For an Orthodox Christian, a main criterion in discernment (or “litmus test”) is the Dominical saying : “By their fruits you will know them”.

 ‘Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly 
 they are ravenous wolves.  You will know them by their fruits. Do men 
 gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?  Even so, every good 
 tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.  A good tree cannot 
 bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.  Every tree that does 
 not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  Therefore by 
 their fruits you will know them’ (Matthew 7:15-20). 

Some background information

This provision of details of the life and activities of Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) gives but a minor summary and selection of the multitude of meetings, visits, services, teaching, travels and other works (including his life of prayer). Throughout his life, he has been a whole-hearted servant of the Lord because of love.

When Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) came to the responsibility of the head of the OCA, it was already a time in which various accusations and complaints had begun to be aimed at the leadership and administration of the Church. There were suggestions of mismanagement of the finances, and perhaps even theft of money. The pursuing of investigations, the collection of evidence and consideration of the matter by several committees of the Metropolitan Council had been in progress for a time. The process continued during his service as metropolitan, and it continued for several years thereafter. A formal accusation was lodged with civil authorities against Metropolitan Herman about certain matters. However, upon investigation, the civil authorities perceived that what material had been provided did not constitute sufficient evidence which, in a trial in a civil court, might prove guilt beyond doubt. Therefore, all matters having to do with the financial concerns were managed within the Church's Holy Synod and administration. Nevertheless, one of the main benefits of this very painful process was a noticeable improvement in the management of the fiscal resources of the Church, and of the proper reporting of this management in accordance with the more modern standards as demanded by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other responsible authorities.

To some extent, this situation was an expression of the “growing pains” of the Church. As had been the case for many charitable and not-for-profit entities, the formerly widely-practiced technique of “borrowing from Peter to pay Paul” and vice-versa was used in order to manage very limited funds (especially in emergencies and unexpected circumstances). Using this technique, dedicated funds from which amounts were borrowed in order to meet an immediate need were sometimes unable to be replaced later, and this was one of the reasons for the tightening of IRS rules. A main concern was that particularly restricted funds be left intact and used only for their intended and approved purposes. After the reworking of the methods of book-keeping and reporting, the Church was able to follow the modern standards of best business practice.

In the autumn of 2005, the OCA administration had been publicly accused of financial misconduct by its former treasurer, Protodeacon Eric Wheeler. On 3 September, 2008, the Special Investigative Committee of the OCA released its 32-page report. The report was presented to the Holy Synod and to the Metropolitan Council. The report "held the whole OCA administrative structure responsible for failure".

Once retirement had become possible for Metropolitan Herman, there was an extended debate about where he might be able to live thereafter. It may be kept in mind the fact that despite the controversies, those who had known and loved Vladyka Herman over many years still continued to do so. As a consequence of a bequest in a will, it was not necessary that Vladyka Herman be uprooted from Saint Tikhon's Monastery, his home for many decades. A house on the property which had been willed to the monastery had been directed to be at Vladyka Herman's disposal for his personal dwelling for as long as it was needed or desired by him. It was in this home that he lived in his retirement. In living this secluded life, he was supported by his long-time cell-attendant Martin Paluch. A graduate of Saint Tikhon's Seminary, Martin had remained at the seminary and monastery, where he performed all sorts of necessary duties including photography, grounds management, organisational details and a multitude of other responsibilities. The retirement of Metropolitan Herman effectively included his own retirement (because his responsibility as cell-attendant to Metropolitan Herman was more than a full-time responsibility).

A subsequent formal investigation by the Metropolitan Council, chaired by Bishop Nikon (Liolin) of Boston, examined the records of Saint Tikhon's Monastery, Seminary, and Bookstore. This investigation arose in the context of concern about the indebtedness of the monastery. A formal 2010 report was released to the public, in which it was alleged that during the time when Vladyka Herman had been the responsible bishop, he had not properly exercised his fiduciary duty regarding the accounting for the disposition of certain funds. Nevertheless, the civil authorities did not find sufficient evidence that was placed before them which had any possibility of proving beyond doubt that there was personal guilt involved, and charges were found to be unwarranted.

The complex and painful process of examining records, renewing the methods of reporting and reorganisation of the operation of the central administration of the OCA continued through the times of Metropolitan Herman's successors.

Because bishops are the highest authority in the Church's administration, their responsibility is to repair the deficiencies in the management of the resources (not merely fiscal) of the Church for the sake of all-round clarity, honesty and accountability. Despite all the pain that was endured through the process of reorganisation and improvement of management methods, it seems that the necessary lessons have been learnt so that management and accounting have become clear and accountable. That this could be the consequence of the painful process is cause to give thanks to God.

“Metropolitan Herman: Reflections of a Spiritual Son”

by Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki

 Recently, I was asked to give a short reflection on the ministry of His Beatitude,
 Metropolitan Herman, on the 45th Anniversary of his Episcopal Consecration.  It is
 not an easy task, because I could write volumes about the many, many ways His
 Beatitude has affected my life in a positive way. I will try to offer just a few.  
 
 His Beatitude has been watching over me my entire life. The day I was baptized in
 Wilmington, Delaware in July of 1980, His Beatitude, then Bishop Herman, was
 present. He was there for the Lesser Blessing of the parish’s new building. Over the
 years I had the blessing of being guided and formed in my vocation through his
 ministry. As a kid I can’t tell you how many letters I wrote to him, with questions 
 that seemed important to me at the time, but looking back must have seemed like a
 pesky kid interrupting a busy schedule. Nonetheless, His Beatitude always responded, 
 and I still have those letters. 
 
 Growing up, I remember the excitement of waiting for him to arrive to the area
 Lenten Mission Vespers, and remember being in awe as the subdeacons vested
 him in the center of the Church. I remember at Summer Camp how he would come
 to the cookouts, and lead the groups on hikes. When I was old enough, I began to
 serve in the altar, and eventually as his subdeacon for a time. In seminary, I was
 blessed to travel with him on occasion, and really learned how to serve through his
 watchful eye, and direct corrections. 
 
 As I grew older, there were many times I came to him with various problems and
 concerns. He always responded with patience and love, even when I needed
 correction.  But those corrections always came with a smile. I remember in particular
 a difficult situation that took place in Seminary. When I went to talk to him about it, I
 expected to have the riot act read to me. Instead, he patiently listened to me, and
 then simply asked what I learned from the event, and how I would do it differently the
 next time. He gave a gentle correction, offered me a Pepsi, and sent me on my way.
 This still serves as an example to me as a pastor of how to minister to those who
 come to me. 
 
 I was ordained to the priesthood in January of 2005, in the same church where we first met,
 at my baptism some twenty-five years earlier. I remember being terrified the first
 week of serving when he came into the altar during an early morning daily Liturgy at
 the monastery, and simply said, ‘Pretend I’m not here’. After the service, after I
 received his blessing, he told me to be at his office that afternoon. ‘What did I forget
 to do ? Did I mess up ?’ I thought. Actually, he assigned me to my first parish that
 afternoon, only a week after being ordained. Later that spring, he gave me one of my
 greatest gifts, assigning me to my beloved parish which I have been in ever since.
 It is not an exaggeration to say that my life and vocation were fostered and affected
 in a great way through the loving care and ministry of His Beatitude, Metropolitan
 Herman. Now in retirement, I pray for him, and visit him any time I come to Saint
 Tikhon’s. On this the 45th Anniversary of his consecration to episcopal service, I join
 the many who sing ‘Axios’ to this important man, who had and continues to have
 such a great influence and impact on my life. May the Lord remember him and his
 service to the Church in His Heavenly Kingdom. Eis polla eti despota !

The preceding reflection, published on 11 February, 2018, expresses the experience of a very large number of people who have commented time after time (both during and after his active service) about the kindness, attention and love that was shown to them by Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko). They demonstrate the fundamental pastoral and paternal disposition which characterise his overall service in Christ.

Awards

Metropolitan Herman received numerous awards and honours during the course of his archpastoral service, including an Honourary Doctor of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Seminary in Wisconsin, and an Honourary Doctor of Business Administration degree from his alma mater, Robert Morris College in Pennsylvania.

• 1994, Order of Saint Innocent, 2nd degree.

• 2004, Order of Saint Sergius of Radonezh, 1st degree.

• 2004, Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius, 1st degree.

• 2004, Medal of the Orthodox Theological Faculty, Prešov, Slovakia.

• 2004, Order of Saint Alexei, Metropolitan of Moscow, 1st degree (7 December).

Various photos

Speaking with Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Elevation of Hieromonk Tikhon (Mollard) to Igumen, 1998

References

Past Primates : OCA article about Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko)

Orthodoxwiki article about Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) of Washington and New York

Wikipedia article about Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko)

Drevo Open Encyclopaedia biography

Orthodox Encyclopaedia biography

Youtube biography

Obituary of Richard Swaiko

Russian Wikipedia biography

Moscow Patriarchate biography

Additional information :

Perich, John J, “The Center of Orthodoxy in America : the History of Saint Tikhon's Monastery – Orphanage – Seminary” (South Canaan, Pennsylvania : Saint Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary, 1974).

Tarasar, Constance J, ed., "Orthodox America 1794-1976 : Development of The Orthodox Church in America" (Syosset, NY : The Orthodox Church in America Department of History and Archives, 1975). ASIN : B000ZLZAUE.

'Metropolitan Herman : Reflections of a Spiritual Son' in “Reflections in Christ by various authors” at OCA,org

Video about the Saint Tikhon Monastery Museum and Repository with Archpriest John Perich

Video introduction to the Monastery Museum and Repository with Father Nicodemus

Second video introduction to the Metropolitan Museum and Repository

Video by Father John Perich about Military Chaplain Father Vladimir Borichevsky

Article about the American presence in Newfoundland and Labrador after 1941

Article about military bases in Newfoundland and Labrador

List of Primates of The Orthodox Church in America

Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania web-site

Metropolitan Theophilus (Pashkovsky)

Metropolitan Leonty (Turkevich)

Metropolitan Ireney (Bekish)

Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor)

Metropolitan Tikhon (Mollard)

Archbishop Kiprian (Borisevich)

Video : Archdeacon Andrey Mazur and Bishop Herman (Swaiko) of Philadelphia

"Alive in Christ" Summer, 1998, issue report about the visit of Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia

OCA to welcome Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia (March, 1998)

Archbishop Herman of Philadephia elected Primate of The Orthodox Church in America, 22 July, 2002

Metropolitan Herman was officially received by His Holiness and Beatitude, Patriarch-Catholicos ILIA II of All Georgia at the Patriarchate in Tbilisi.

Saint George Church article : “Metropolitan Herman's First Visit to Mexico” : January, 2003

Repose of brother Richard Swaiko, 3 April, 2003

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman Visits Church in Russia” : June, 2003

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman Makes First Official Visit to Church of Russia” : June, 2003

OCA article “Patriarch Bartholomew Hosts Metropolitan Herman, OCA Delegation” : 3-10 July, 2003

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew hosts Metropolitan Herman, OCA delegation in Istanbul, Turkey 3 July 2003

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman to Participate in 100th Anniversary of St. Seraphim's Canonization, to Make Official Visit to Ukrainian Orthodox Church” : July-August, 2003

OCA article : “OCA Delegation participates in historic 100th Anniversary of the Canonization of St. Seraphim of Sarov” : July-August, 2003

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman Continues First Official Visit to Church in Ukraine” : August, 2003

“Metropolitan Herman Concludes Official Visit to Orthodox Church of Poland” : September, 2003

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman Returns from Official Visit to Orthodox Church of Georgia” : April, 2004

OCA article : “Metropolitan Herman Concludes Official Visit to the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia” : October, 2004

“14th All American Council to Open in Toronto”

OCA Archives : “13th All American Council” 21-26 July, 2002, Orlando, Florida

OCA Archives : “14th All American Council” 17-22 July, 2005, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

“Transforming the Modern World “: An Interview with Metropolitan Herman by Rebekah Goodyear, Autumn, 2007

“Speaking the Truth in Love” : Message of His Beatitude Metropolitan Herman on the Crisis in The Orthodox Church in America, 13 December, 2007

Metropolitan Herman's Archpastoral Message for Sanctity of Life Sunday, 2008

OCA News article : “Metropolitan Herman : Reflections of a Spiritual Son” 11 February, 2018

Obituary Charles Swaiko, 2019

Obituary Irene Weischedel, 2019

Article about the Holy Mountain of Grabarka by John Sanidopoulos

OCA In Memoriam : Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) (6 September, 2020)

Obituary of Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) (6 September, 2022)

Legacy.com obituary of Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) (6 September, 2022)

Web-site of the Manglisi Sioni Cathedral

Video : Memorial Service for Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) at Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania (6 September, 2022)

Video : Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch over Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania (15 September, 2022)

Video : Alternate Yougube address : Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch over Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania (15 September, 2022)

Facebook Video : Funeral Service for the Burial of a Hierarch over Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) at Saint Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania (15 September, 2022)

'New Metropolitan Elected at 13th AAC' in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger” (Autumn, 2002) pp. 1-3.

'Archdiocesan Assembly Meets in Saskatoon' in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger (Autumn, 2004) pp. 1-6.

'14th AAC meets in Toronto, reflects on Priorities' in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger” (Autumn, 2005) pp. 1-4.

'Archdiocese of Canada Assembly 2007 : Christian Mission in a Pluralistic World' in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger” (Autumn, 2007) pp. 1-7.

'Metropolitan Herman Serves Primatial Liturgy In New Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Canada' in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger” (Autumn, 2007) pp. 5-6.

'“The Mother of Orthodoxy in Canada” : Sts Peter & Paul, Montréal Celebrates 100th Anniversary' by Rebekah Goodyear in “Canadian Orthodox Messenger” (Winter, 2007-2008) pp. 3-5.