This bezpopovtsy Russian Old Believer Church of the Holy Trinity (at 227 Holland Street, Erie, PA, 16507) does not have a website on the internet. Instead, it prints and mails a six-page, English language bimonthly newsletter to its members and friends. Usually, the newsletter contains:
1.) An explanation of the religious feasts, Holy Days and fasts in the next two months,
2.) A translation of some of the lyrics of important church hymns,
3.) News about the parish including condolences to the families of the recently deceased, prayer requests for members in nursing homes, and birthday greetings for babies, and
4.) Monthly calendars listing times and dedications for religious services.
There was one piece of news in the current April/May issue which really impressed me. This year in July, the Erie church will celebrate the 100th birthday of their 'nastavnik', Father Larry Evanoff. An Old Believer from Moscow recently visited Erie (and Detroit) and informed the Erie community that their pastor is the OLDEST, active nastavnik of the priestless Faith in the WORLD! The Moscow visitor also added that he, along with a few Russian nastavniks, would like to come for the annual summer church picnic in July and the birthday celebration. What a wonderful tribute and gift for this dedicated and loyal nastavnik who is still alert and active in the parish!
If you would like to be added to their mailing list, please send a letter to the church with your name and address and an offering to help cover the expense of the printing and mailing of their newsletter.
Here is a photo of the Erie church:
https://urbantraipsing.wordpress.com/2013/03/17/erie-churches/027-600x800/
