EarlyS aturday morning on September 13, 2009, the gates slowly opened to greet the students from St. Innocent Academy. Weary and uncomfortable after the long bus ride from Arizona, this talented group of teenagers and staff did not show any hint of displeasure. Rather, they greeted St. Steven's Cathedral with awe and wonder.

This incomparable group of high school students and their staff came with a purpose: to spread the message of Christ's Love throughout the Orthodox Churches in the lower 48.

And spread this Gospel they did! They began their ministry by replenishing their spirit. A little sightseeing, and a lot of rest brought them refreshed back to St. Steven's on Sunday morning for Matins.

One felt the gentle rocking of the Holy Spirit move in the antiphonal swaying of their male and female choirs, when they began to sing the Resurrectional Evlogitaria. This tiny sway built up momentum through their beautiful voices and kept up an organic movement in praising God in song throughout the Divine Liturgy. The beauty of their voices was only overshadowed by their humility of person.

After Liturgy, St. Innocent's Academy regaled the luncheon crowd with a folk concert featuring American, Irish, Italian, and Yupik cultures. The parish took a special collection in order to help support the miraculous work of this mission, and gave a financial gift to supplement this collection. Father Nick also presented them with an icon of Christ to remember their visit.

Lest one misunderstand, these children are not monastic. They are living a repentant life enlivened by the Holy Spirit. Many come from troubled homes and paths that led away from Christ. Yet, each has chosen to turn from that path and return to Christ. We can all learn from their marvelous example, as we too struggle to live a life in Christ!