The “most solemn and last feast” of Pentecost in the Orthodox Metropolis of Korea was very special this year due to the event of the ordination of the American-born Christopher Jonker as Deacon at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Seoul by the Metropolitan of Korea and Exarch of Japan Ambrosios, and the co-celebrants, the protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Rev. Fr. Roman Kavchak and the Rev. Fr. Anthony Lim.
The newly ordained Deacon Christopher has been living in Korea for more than ten years and is married to Korean Zoe (Gippeum Park). Besides his mother tongue, he speaks Greek and Korean.
His ordination as Deacon gave great joy to the large congregation attending from Seoul and Incheon parishes. The true joy, which is the fruit of the Holy Spirit, was diffused among all people. This was evident from the way they expressed their feelings in the church during the time of the distribution of the Antidoron, which everyone stopped by to congratulate him, and at the communal Agape Meal, which was accompanied by a musical program.
Deacon Christopher was very touched during his short address, as he said later, because he felt strongly the presence of the late Metropolitan Soterios, when he spoke with gratitude about His revered person.
May the newly ordained Deacon serve the Church of Christ worthily until his last breath. Axios! Worthy!