Congratulations to Archimandrite Alexander Belya, Vicar of the Slavic Vicariate and Bishop-Elect of Nicopolis, on the 45th Anniversary of His Birth

Your Very Reverend Father Alexander!

On behalf of the clergy, monastics, and laity of the Slavic Vicariate, please accept our sincere and heartfelt congratulations on your 45th birthday!

On this significant day, we prayerfully thank the Lord for the gift of your life and for the zealous ministry you carry out to the glory of His Holy Church.

Your service as a priest and vicar is an example to us all of faithfulness to the calling you embraced from your youth, and of fatherly care for the flock. The Word of God reminds us: “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). Indeed, through your prayers and labors, communities are being built up and strengthened, the truth of the Orthodox Faith is being witnessed in the modern world—and here on American soil—leading people to God and helping them grow firm on the path of following Him.

We prayerfully wish you, Your Very Reverend Father, the unfailing help of God in your ongoing labors. May the Lord, the Source of every good thing, grant you blessed longevity, fill every day of your life with spiritual joy and inspiration for new accomplishments. May His all-generous right hand strengthen your spiritual and bodily powers, so that you may continue—with unwavering faith—to lead the flock entrusted to you toward the calm harbor of the Kingdom of Heaven.

May the peace and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ always abide with you, and may the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos shield you from every evil throughout all the paths of your life.

Many and blessed years to you!