Bakersfield Mission Rededicated, Acquires New Building

"Christ the Saviour" Mission in Bakersfield, California, petitioned His Eminence Metropolitan Moses to rededicate their community to the Archangel Michael and received his blessing to do so – the new patronal dedication is Archangel Michael Orthodox Mission.

The Mission has leased a fine site and building to continue its worship of the All-Holy Trinity, and to be available to people in the greater Bakersfield area who, if members of one of the SCOBA jurisdictions, are tired of the pan-heresy of syncretist ecumenism and want to join a community of traditional, continuing Orthodox Christians; or, if members of heterodox or non-Christian groups, are simply looking for the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.

The address of the new church is 2115 19th St., Bakersfield, California. The building requires some interior remodeling, painting, and decorating. Services are temporarily being held in a room designated for the Trapeza until such time as the removal of a wall will connect two existing rooms into one, large chapel.

The service schedule is currently (Summer, 2010): Saturdays when one of the Hierarchs is in Bakersfield, Great Vespers at 5:30 PM; Sundays, Hours at 9:30, Divine Liturgy at 10 AM. The Liturgy is celebrated twice a month (once with His Eminence, Metropolitan Moses of Portland, and once with His Grace, Bishop Sergios of Loch Lomond in Lake County). From time to time one of the regular Hierarchal visitors may be replaced by one of our Presbyters from Portland. It is a good idea for anyone interested in attending services in Bakersfield to contact John Engel, (661)327-4748, ahead of time to confirm the services, times and dates.

On the weekend of July 24-25, 2010, Archangel Michael Orthodox Mission celebrated its first Great Vespers and Divine Liturgy in its new building. After the Liturgy, the congregation processed around the building as Bishop Sergios blessed the property. There followed a celebratory luncheon hosted by members of the congregation. (see photos below)

We are all rejoicing with the devoted members of the Archangel Michael Mission in Bakersfield; we pray that their many labors in the vineyard of our Saviour will be a blessing for them and for the Metropolis.