On January 23/February 5 the clergy and faithful of Saint Sebastian Orthodox Christian Church in Traverse City, MI welcomed Archbishop Peter of the Diocese of Chicago & Mid-America for his very first hierarchical visit to the young, growing mission. Vigil for St. Xenia of St. Petersburg was served Friday evening and on Saturday morning the archbishop celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Prior to the Liturgy Vladyka Peter tonsured Seraphim Winkler a Reader for service at St. Sebastian Orthodox Church(www.stsebastianorthodoxchurch.org) and Gregory Naasko a Reader for service at Sts. Sergius & Herman of Valaam Monastery (www.sshvm.org). Reader Michael Rossmeisl was elevated to the rank of Sub-Deacon for service at St. Sebastian’s. Following the beautiful Liturgy Vladyka encouraged the faithful with his words and the gift of a beautiful Menaion icon set for every day of the year. A meal was shared by all and a wonderful time of fellowship was had. Joining the parish for the celebration were Archpriest Gregory Joyce, Dean of Michigan parishes and Diocesan Secretary as well as Hierodeacon Alexei of Sts. Sergius & Herman of Valaam Monastery.