On the afternoon of Sunday, May 24, 2026—during a visitation of the parishes within the Atlantic States Deanery—Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA & Canada, visited the St. Nicholas Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

His Grace was warmly welcomed by the parish administrator, Archpriest Michael Lepa, and church parishioners. Concelebrating with the rector and accompanying clergy, Bishop Matthew led a moleben to St. Nicholas, whose feast day had been celebrated the previous day.

The archpastor cordially congratulated Archpriest Michael and the parishioners on their recent patronal feast day, as well as on the ongoing days of the celebration of the Ascension of the Lord. His Eminence expressed his profound gratitude for maintaining the church and parish life at such a high standard, specifically emphasizing the significance of this sacred site, which is inextricably linked to the ministry of the Holy Righteous Presbyter Alexis Toth.

His Grace presented a gift to the parish library: the book “The People's Patriarch” by Professor Scott Kenworthy, which chronicles the life and spiritual struggles of the Holy Confessor Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus'. Bishop Matthew also presented small icons of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker to everyone in attendance.

The fellowship between the archpastor, the clergy, and the parishioners continued over tea, during which various matters concerning parish life and activities were discussed.