NEW YORK: September 11, 2026
The First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia celebrates Divine Liturgy on the Feast of the Beheading of the Forerunner of the Lord John and the silver anniversary of the Manhattan attacks

On Friday, September 11, 2026, on the Feast of the Beheading of the Forerunner of the Lord John and the silver anniversary of the Manhattan attacks, His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St Sergius Chapel of the Synodal residence in New York. His Eminence was joined by the Vicar of the East American Diocese, His Grace Bishop Theodosius of Manhattan, Deputy Secretary of the Synod of Bishops, and Archpriest Andrei Sommer, Dean of the Synodal Cathedral of Our Lady "of the Sign," who also serves as Vice President of the Synodal Youth Department.

The service was held in the presence of a cross made from steel taken from the first tower of the World Trade Center, which was donated to the parish community of the cathedral. At the end of the service, His Eminence expressed the hope that this cross would serve to strengthen faith, bring healing, and offer comfort to all Orthodox Christians in New York City and to all those affected by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

In conclusion, His Eminence noted that humans are called not to destroy, but to create and participate in the Divine life of the Creator, in order to partake in God's beauty and holiness. "May the Lord help us in this," wished His Eminence Bishop Nikolai to everyone present.