Descent of the Holy Ghost

Sometime ago, the Byzantine Eparchy of Parma closed the Parish of the Holy Ghost across from Lincoln Park. It was open for more than a century. The congregation shrank, people had left for the suburbs. It was the mother church of Holy Spirit in Parma. It began at about the same time as St. Theodosius, which is a few blocks away, of the same national stock. That parish, was also Greek Catholic Rusyns (Ruthenians), became Russian Orthodox. Their cornerstone lists both denominations, in two different scripts and languages too. They left communion with Rome, because of neglect and American episcopal hostility.
The iconostasis is magnificent in both. At Holy Ghost, it is even more involved. The photograph does not do full justice. It was made in Europe and pieced together here.

part of the icon screen with a western depiction of Pentecost (Descent of the Holy Ghost)

The Eparchy of Parma did not keep the church closed long. It was too beautiful, too historically important. Sentiment won out, and the church was re-opened. It is now a Byzantine Cultural Center. They try to integrate the church community with the neighborhood of Tremont. It is involved with the ‘farmers' market’ and the ‘art walk’. They hope for an evangelisation. The Liturgy is sung a capella throughout in English.

To-day was the parish’s patronal feast. A procession was held outside, stopping four times to sing and proclaim the four Gospels at points where the Patron was discussed.