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The official opening of the Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Mission Training Center in St. Augustine, Florida was held this morning. Currently we are at the special Luncheon celebrating this extraordinary event which celebrates the erecting of the first official center for a SCOBA Agency. Representatives of all of the Orthodox Jurisdictions were present as well as representatives of all SCOBA Agencies to witness this glorious event and show solidarity in the aim of SCOBA to share the Gospel of Christ.
The morning began once again with a downpour but this did not wash out the positive spirit of those who came to St. Augustine. In the holy presence of His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios as well as other hierarchs and priests, the Board of Directors of OCMC and hundreds of supporters began the day with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. From there all present traveled in the pouring down rain to the OCMC headquarters. You might even be able to pick up the sound of the rain in this recording.
I must confess to you that on my way to the Divine Liturgy I got lost and found another member of the Board of OCMC who also had lost her way, since most of the roads leading to the church had been washed out by the rain and the police were detouring everyone. It was at this point that I decided to go directly to the training center. Much to my joy I met Helen Nicozisis, the former Chairman of the Board and the Capital Campaign at the center who gave me a personal tour of the new center prior to everyone arriving. You can hear this tour for yourself by clicking on the link below.
The new building is approximately 12,000 square feet and two stories tall with a reflecting pool. The blessing of the waters service was chanted with the faithful singing the responses. The prayers read by the Hierarchs and priests were so moving that some people were brought to tears. For some, the goal of having a mission center has been a life-long endeavor now realized.
You can also hear two talks given by the honorees which were very moving' recalling their time together in Greece when they were students and their statements of how important missions are for our Church. We will be posting numerous photos so please take your time to review them. Thanks for visiting our OCMC coverage of the Dedication. It was an honor for OCN to be invited to partner with our sister agency of SCOBA.
Hear the opening of the dedication here, or click below to listen:
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A welcome into the building here, or hear below:
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