"Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle."  (2 Thessalonians 2:15)

In memory of our past at this 100th anniversary of our church, it is incumbent to remember our founding pastor, Father Peter Kohanik. Father Peter Kohanik was ordained to the priesthood on October 26, 1902 upon completion of theological studies in Petrograd and at Simpheropole (Russia). He was rector of Russian Orthodox Churches in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut and established twelve parishes in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including our own. He remained Pastor in Passaic for 44 years and fell asleep in the Lord on May 20, 1969. Father Peter is always fondly remembered in our prayers. Vechnaja Pamyat. Father Peter was a prolific writer and the following are excerpts from his book “Mother Church of Christendom” published May 27, 1948.

“Orthodox Christianity” ……. is the Faith given to men by the Son of God, Jesus Christ, Who descended from heaven for the good of men and for their salvation, the Faith which was preached by the Holy Apostles, expounded by the Holy Fathers at the Seven Ecumenical councils. Orthodoxy preserves and continues the aboriginal Apostolic Christianity in its direct and uninterrupted succession. Therefore, Orthodoxy, by its inward conscience and conviction, is authentically Apostolic Christianity.......

The Orthodox Church proves all of her assertions by quotations from the Holy Scripture, and imposes nothing upon her members but such truths as have been handed down by the Holy Apostles (through the Holy Fathers) who received the faith from our Lord – Christ the Savior.....

We should also remember this important thing: times change, conditions change, but truth never changes. God is always the same. Jesus Christ is same yesterday, and today, and forever. (Heb 13:8) God desires of His Holy Church to have a fixed, settled creed; the truth as it is in Jesus. Weary son’s can find peace on earth only in a settled faith......"

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Several months ago, a comment to this website stated: “What a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the legacy of Fr. Peter Kohanik and the enduring faith of the St. John’s community. His words still inspire deep reflection, especially during this sacred season.”    We always remember him fondly with prayers.  Memory Eternal!

We here at St. John’s have grown through dedicated parishioners to become a meaningful and viable religious body within the Orthodox Church in America. The fellowship of our parishioners is cherished and nurtured in the Brotherhood with Christ and we pray that the Lord’s blessings will continue to guide our congregation.

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.  (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Happy Birthday to all those celebrating their birthday in July. Among those are: Maryann Stagen on July 4; Kathy Cahayla, July 10; Peggy Kovalycsik , July 11; Helen Baron, July 22; Kathy Petrow, July 24; Brielle Hope Anderson, July 25; Austin Christopher Anderson, July 27; and Betty Ann Fechisin on July 29. A very happy birthday to everyone celebrating their birthday in July and May God grant you all Many Years!