On Saturday, May 16, 2015, His Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon presided at the Divine Liturgy marking the 50th anniversary of Archpriest Daniel Donlick’s ordination to the priesthood. The celebration took place at the Monastery Church of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk, South Canaan, PA.
Over 30 clergy concelebrated the Divine Liturgy. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, also was present. Also joining Father Daniel, Matushka Dolores and their family for the celebration were numerous former students, parishioners, and friends.
“For almost all of his priestly ministry, Father Daniel served the Saint Tikhon’s Seminary community in one capacity or another, including Academic Dean,” said Archpriest John Jillions, OCA Chancellor, who was present for the celebration. “He is now almost completely blind, yet he is an example of patience and joy. In 2013 he gave the commencement address at Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, during which he told the graduates that they will face many uncertainties in their future lives as servants of Christ. ‘But have no fear. Remember the Lord’s words, I will be with you even unto the close of the age. What a privilege and joy it is to serve the Lord!’”
In thanksgiving and prayerful remembrance, Father Daniel presented a chalice and diskos for use in the monastery’s Saint Nikoloai of Zicha Chapel and a censer to the monastery church. Archpriest Steven Voytovich, Dean of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, announced the establishmet of a scholarship fund in Father Daniel’s honor.
A 1965 graduate of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, Father Daniel also served as rector of Saint Nicholas Church, Olyphant, PA; Archangel Michael Church, Jermyn, PA; and Holy Trinity Mission—today a well established parish—in Stroudsburg, PA. Among his many other duties, he also served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania.
A festive banquet followed, during which the many attendees offered their personal thanks and expressions of love to Father Daniel on this major milestone in his life and ministry.
