Office of Pastoral Life and Clergy Wives Ministry Host Lenten Retreat for Widows of Clergy
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Orthodox Church in America’s Office of Pastoral Life, through its Clergy Wives Ministry, hosted an online Lenten retreat for widows of reposed clergy. The Very Rev. Dr. Steven Voytovich presented on the theme, “Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and keep it,” reflecting on the life of the Mother of God through Scripture, the writings of the Church Fathers, the Church’s hymnography, and the liturgical services that proclaim the mystery of her life. He also invited participants to reflect on her dogmatic title, “Theotokos,” and on her maternal relationship to the Body of Christ.
Additionally, Father Steven led a group discussion with the widows, which focused on the significance of the Virgin Mary’s place in the Church as a fervent and dependable intercessor. At the conclusion of the retreat and discussion, Father Steven served an Akathist to the Virgin Mary for the widows gathered via Zoom.
Father Steven serves as Chancellor of the Diocese of New England (OCA), Director of the OCA’s Office of Institutional Chaplaincy and Rector of Holy Transfiguration Church in New Haven. He is a seasoned priest, educator, and pastoral leader with decades of experience in parish ministry, seminary formation, and institutional chaplaincy. He holds advanced degrees from Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary and Fairfield University, including a Doctor of Ministry focused on Orthodox pastoral education.
By Matushka Deborah Belonick