During the pastorate of Father Kappanadze, several priests were assigned as assistants, including: Priestmonk Nicholas (Shambura), and Fathers Michael Kostyk, Nicholas Vansuch, Andrew Chernushin and Alexander Marciniuk. Father Kappanadze retired to “Pastor Emeritus” status in 1957. January 1, 1958 saw the beginning of the short-lived pastorate of Father Peter Bohush, with Father Marciniuk as associate. This began the transition to worship in English, with the advent of two Divine Liturgies each Sunday – one in Slavonic, one in English. Choir Master Wasily Baranow formed an English Choir in addition to the existing Slavonic Choir. Father Bohush became ill and fell asleep in the Lord on July 20, 1959. Father Igor Tkachuk became pastor and Father Stephen Jula the associate on October 1, 1959. Father Sergius Kuharsky was pastor from 1964 – 1976. Father Stephen Kopestonsky became pastor in 1976, followed by Father Jason Kappanadze in 1988. As the 100th anniversary of the parish approached, the roof of the cathedral was completely recovered, and water damage to the frescos was repaired. The Slavonic text of biblical prophecies and verses, which adorned the walls, was translated into English so that they could be read and understood by the assembled faithful. Father John Zdinak became the rector in 1999. Under his leadership, a $500,000 restoration of the cathedral took place. The frescos and interior of the church had become covered by layers of soot from the steel mills that the church overlooks, as well as years of incense and candle smoke. This was cleaned away and the frescos were restored to their former brightness and beauty. The project also included: the replacement of copper roofing on four main arches and the lower domes, the upgrading of the lighting and electrical systems, the refinishing of pews, the removal of the old carpet and installment of tile and new carpet, the construction of a new stairway and an ADA wheelchair ramp for the front entrance. All this was followed by a rededication of the cathedral with a consecration to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the building of the cathedral. (责任编辑:) |