Palmyra, Pennsylvania, September 14, 2026
Photo: Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church
A new mission parish in the Orthodox Church in America’s Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania held its first service on Saturday, September 12.
The new mission, located in Palmyra, outside of Hershey, is attached to Christ the Saviour Church in Harrisburg, where Fr. Stephen Vernak serves as rector. Fr. Stephen celebrated the mission’s first service, which was held at Palmyra First United Methodist Church, Christ the Saviour reports.
“The faithful offered prayers, asking the Lord to bless our good intentions, and that we would cooperate with Him to establish this new mission to His glory!” the church writes.
Photo: Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church
The new mission aims to serve Orthodox Christians in an area between Harrisburg and Lebanon where there is currently no parish of any jurisdiction.
Services will be held at the Methodist church on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.
Christ the Saviour itself is growing quickly, with 35 catechumens listed in its latest bulletin. The church will also have a trial period with two Liturgies every Sunday to accommodate the growing congregation.
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