The Patronal Feast of the “Annunciation” Chapel in Howser

A Celebration of Joy and Communion

On Wednesday, March 25, in the municipality of Howser, British Columbia, the chapel dedicated to the Annunciation celebrated its patronal feast in an atmosphere of profound spiritual joy. For the small yet vibrant multi-ethnic Orthodox community in the area, this day was an opportunity for communion, prayer, and strengthening in faith.

The liturgical program began at 9:00 am with the Akathist Hymn of the Annunciation, followed by the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by a group of priests. Among those concelebrating were Protosyncellus Corneliu Andrașco (exarch), Fr. Ovidiu Moldovan (parish priest of the “Holy Trinity” mission in Calgary), Fr. Ciprian Roman (parish priest of the “St. Nectarios” mission in Kelowna), and Fr. Cristian Bujor (parish priest of the “Nativity of the Mother of God” mission in Airdrie).

The homily was delivered by Protosyncellus Corneliu Andrașco, as a delegate of His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian of Canada. In his message, he conveyed the bishop’s blessing and emphasized the importance of the Annunciation as a moment of obedience and fulfillment of God’s will in the lives of the faithful.

At the end of the service, the exarch also congratulated Fr. Ovidiu Moldovan, who marked 30 years since his ordination to the priesthood on this very day—a sacrificial ministry in the service of the Church.

A particularly moving moment was the reception service of two catechumens, James and Carol-Patricia, which took place immediately after the Divine Liturgy. Through this event, the community was enriched with new members, a living sign of God’s grace and the Church’s missionary openness.

The celebration concluded in a spirit of brotherhood with a communal agape meal.

The Annunciation Chapel, consecrated two years ago by His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian, is the fruit of the dedication of the Daniel and Kristine Damian family. It was built under the spiritual guidance of Fr. Ștefan Nuțescu, abbot of Lacu Skete on Mount Athos. Today, this place of worship stands as a true spiritual beacon for Orthodox faithful in the region, gathering souls seeking peace, prayer, and communion in Christ.

(notes by Protosyncellus Corneliu Andrașco)