Dear Fr. Harry & Kerry,
“You should continually and unceasingly call to mind all the blessings which God in His love has bestowed on you in the past, and still bestows for the salvation of your soul.” – St Mark the Ascetic
We are excited to share some great news with you:
We are finally ready to depart for Albania!
The road to get here has been unusually long and filled with twisting turns. Yet with a little persistence, your amazing support and patience, and most all, God’s grace, the time has come. We are more mindful than ever and grateful as ever for each and every one of you; your prayers and your donations, in these recent months or from one year ago, have made it all possible. YOU are a blessing to us, and we thank you for making the difference!
This fully funded first term will be for 1.5 years in Tirana, Albania. Our initial ministry will be to the Albanian youth and families, and the Resurrection Cathedral. We still encourage anyone who remains interested in supporting us and following our journey, to make a donation that will enable us to stay in Albania for even longer, preaching the Good News in Jesus Christ. This aspect of missionary work never ceases.
As the Church prepares us now for the spiritual journey through Great Lent, it is fitting that the two of us are also making preparations for our physical journey to Albania. There is still much to do: consulting with OCMC staff about details, reducing our physical belongings to just a few suitcases, saying good bye to family and friends, readying ourselves spiritually and mentally, to name a few. It is bittersweet to leave our home in the US, yet we have joy and excitement for the road ahead!
Due to the situation brought on by the pandemic the final details remain fluid, but our goal is to arrive in Albania before Pascha (May 2nd). When we have been able to finalize our departure date, we will send out a second update. Stay tuned!
Again, thank you so much for enabling us to begin our first term. We are humbled by your generosity, and grateful for your faith and trust in us. Please pray for us, as we pray for you and for a fruitful Lent.
With love in Christ,
– Steve & Theophani Sarigianis
Steve Sarigianis was full time Pastoral Assistant in our parish from August 2015 (when he graduated Seminary) until August 2019. He was faithful and endeared himself to so many our parish who miss his presence. We are privileged as a community of faith to support him and Theophani in their desire to serve Christ as long term missionaries!-Father Harry
