Three Decades of Church Service Celebrated

Through Prayer and Fellowship

On the evening of Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Romanian faithful in Montreal experienced moments of profound spiritual joy, gathering in large numbers for the Sacrament of Holy Unction, celebrated at the Romanian church dedicated to the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The atmosphere of prayer and fellowship was deeply moving, as the church proved too small to accommodate the multitude who came to partake in the grace of this sacred service.

The service was officiated by His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian, surrounded by a group of 15 priests who served together in a spirit of unity and brotherhood. The Sacrament of Holy Unction, so beloved in Orthodox tradition for its healing power—both spiritual and physical—was performed with great reverence, while the faithful responded in harmonious prayer, further strengthening the communal experience.

At the conclusion of the service, the hierarch delivered a soul-edifying message, emphasizing the importance of Great Lent, prayer, repentance, and solidarity in the life of a Christian—especially in the context of the challenges of living far from one’s homeland. His exhortation encouraged steadfastness in faith and the preservation of Romanian spiritual and cultural identity.

A particularly emotional moment followed, when the hierarch presented Parish Priest Constantin Ciubotariu with an icon of Christ the Savior, as a sign of appreciation and gratitude for his 30 years of priestly service. This gesture was warmly received by those present, expressing the community’s respect and love for their shepherd.

The event concluded in a warm and brotherly spirit with an agape meal, thoughtfully organized by the parish ladies’ committee in the church’s social hall. This provided the faithful with the opportunity to continue their fellowship in a more intimate setting, sharing in the joy of the occasion and strengthening their communal bonds.

This blessed evening will surely remain in the hearts of all who attended, as a living testimony to the faith, unity, and love that define the Romanian community in Montreal.

(notes by Protos. Corneliu Andrasco)