Kwethluk, Alaska, August 5, 2024
Bp. Alexei of Sitka serves a panikhida at the grave of St. Olga of Alaska. Photo: odosa.org
The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America resolved at its November 2023 session to canonize Matushka Olga of Alaska (†1979).
Since then, preparations have been underway for the liturgical celebration of her canonization.
Late last month, the Diocese of Sitka and Alaska held a conference in the village of Kwethluk on the theme of “Blessed Matushka Olga of Alaska and Orthodox Unity.” The diocese’s report on the conference provides some important updates on the upcoming glorification.
During the conference, a procession was held to the grave of St. Olga, where a panikhida was served. His Grace Bishop Alexei taught that when a panikhida is served for someone who is set to be glorified, its purpose shifts from praying for their soul to entreating their intercessions.
During the conference, it was announced that the glorification of St. Olga is set to take place sometime next June.
The report also states: “This is the first time in North American Orthodox history that the Indigenous people of any region in Alaska have been asked *first* to draft the liturgical services for a saint.” And thanks to the hard work of an Archpriest Martin and Archpriest Maxim, the first draft of the divine service in honor of St. Olga have been submitted.
Woodworkers and carpenters will collaborate to design a reliquary for St. Olga. The diocese is also working to secure land to build a new St. Olga of Alaska Church, a center of Yup’ik culture, and a hospitality center for pilgrims.
A mission parish dedicated to St. Olga opened in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in March.
In preparation for her upcoming glorification, the Canonization Commission of the OCA has issued an appeal for stories of the miraculous intercession of St. Olga.
Follow OrthoChristian on Twitter, Vkontakte, Telegram, WhatsApp, MeWe, and Gab!
