Posted on August 28, 2026
Is It Ever Okay for Christians to Judge? — Fr. Nazari Polataiko
Fr. Nazari Polataiko joins The Ancient Church podcast to discuss the difference between judgment and spiritual discernment.
In this episode of The Ancient Church, host Polina Leiser speaks with our rector, Archpriest Fr. Nazari Polataiko, about the difference between judgment and spiritual discernment.
The conversation explores what Christ means when He tells us, "Judge not, that you be not judged," whether we can recognize sinful or harmful behavior without judging the person, and when Christians have a responsibility to correct others. Fr. Nazari also discusses the role of humility in true discernment and how we can respond to judgmental thoughts.
The episode also includes responses to audience questions about the role of the Mother of God in our salvation and how to forgive someone who has hurt us deeply but has never asked for forgiveness.
Posted on July 6, 2026
Clergy Retreat of the Pacific Southwest Deanery
With the blessing and under the presidency of His Grace Bishop Vasiliy of San Francisco and the West, the clergy of the Pacific Southwest Deanery of the Diocese of the West are participating in their annual three-day clergy retreat, taking place July 6–8 at the historic Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, California.
The retreat brings together clergy from throughout the deanery for prayer, fellowship, pastoral discussion, and spiritual renewal. The program includes presentations, discussions on pastoral ministry, and opportunities to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among the clergy.
The retreat will conclude with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on Wednesday, July 8, at St. Katherine Orthodox Church in Carlsbad, California, presided over by His Grace Bishop Vasiliy.
Please keep our clergy and bishop in your prayers as they continue their work of serving Christ and His Holy Church.
Posted on May 31, 2026
Sunday Parish School — End of Year 2025–2026
May was the last month of the school year at our Holy Virgin Russian Orthodox Parish School.
On May 24, the last day of classes for the school's core subjects took place. On the same day, the youngest group, “Apprentices,” held an open lesson-game titled “What? Where? When?” dedicated to the travels of Ivashka the badger through various countries. The students' parents were invited to attend the lesson.
Also on May 24, the feast day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Equal-to-the-Apostles, the Teachers of the Slavs, following the Divine Liturgy, our clergy presented the children with certificates of completion for the 2025–2026 academic year. Students who completed the course “Fundamentals of the Orthodox Faith” were presented with certificates of completion.
On May 31, Holy Trinity Day, the long-awaited musical performance Puss in Boots took place, becoming a true celebration for children, parents, and parishioners. Before the performance began, a festive lunch was organized for the children, and after the show, the cathedral’s rector, Father Nazariy, addressed the students, teachers, and guests with congratulations, words of gratitude, and pastoral guidance.
We wholeheartedly thank the teachers for their many months of hard work, our young performers for their dedication, talent, and wonderful performance, as well as all the parishioners who came to support our children.
Now the children’s summer vacation begins. We wish everyone a restful break, new experiences, and God’s blessing. Classes at our school will resume in September.