JORDANVILLE, NY: 19 April 2024
The First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad officiates at the funeral of Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk

On April 15, 2024, His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, arrived in Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, to officiate at the funeral of newly-departed Protodeacon Joseph Jarostchuk, who reposed in the Lord the previous Thursday.

The body of Fr Joseph was brought to Holy Epiphany Church in Boston, MA, and then to St John of Kronstadt Memorial Church in Utica, NY, where pannikhidas were served and local parishioners were able to pray for the soul of their beloved cleric.

A memorial repast was held Monday in the monastery refectory, after which all assembled in Holy Trinity Cathedral for the funeral service led by the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, concelebrating with His Grace Bishop Luke of Syracuse and a multitude of monastery, diocesan, and visiting clergy.

Before the start of the service, His Eminence addressed the faithful, touching on Fr Joseph’s lifelong dedication and service to the Russian Church Abroad, and the importance of praying for his immortal soul.

The service was held under the aegis of the Protectress of the Russian Diaspora, the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God.

The cathedral was filled with family and friends of the newly reposed. Archpriest Victor Boldewskul (rector of Holy Epiphany Church) delivered a eulogy.

At the conclusion of the funeral, those gathered were then able to offer their last kiss to Protodeacon Joseph, who was interred in the monastery cemetery.