Support for Igumen Patrick (Carpenter)

UPDATE AS OF August 8, 2021

We have raised approximately $35,000 of our $30,000 goal. Can you help us, please? 

We have given a gift of $35,000 to Fr Patrick to help with his expenses. May God richly bless you for your kindness.

- Fr Thomas Soroka


Fr Patrick at one of many rehabilitation sessions.
Fr Patrick at one of many rehabilitation sessions.
Fr Patrick at one of many rehabilitation sessions.

Early in the morning on Monday, June 14, Igumen Patrick (Carpenter) suffered another tragic life-changing development in his health.

In the Fall of 2020, Fr Patrick underwent the amputation of his right leg, and a subsequent difficult healing and recovery process ensued with months of rehabilitation. He was fit with a prosthetic device, learned how to walk (view that video here), and valiantly returned to active ministry in his parish of St Mary's Orthodox Church in the Southside of Pittsburgh PA.

In the Spring of 2021, the tibia in his left leg was separating from his ankle. He closely followed his doctor's advice and a decision was to be made regarding a remedy in June 2021. Sadly, Fr Patrick's lower leg (tibia) entirely moved through the bottom of his foot and it was impossible to save and repair. The doctors ordered that he undergo an amputation of his left leg. The surgery took place on Tuesday, June 15 at Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh PA. He is now a double amputee.

Through all of this, Fr Patrick remained resolute, faithful, thankful, and undeterred in ministry. He has never complained about his condition but has given glory to God for overcoming the difficulties in his health. Fr Patrick is a wonderful shepherd to his flock, an advocate of truth, and an exemplary minister to the poor and disadvantaged in the Pittsburgh area. He spearheaded the St Cyril of White Lake Food Pantry which continues to serve thousands of people in need, regardless of background. His parish also hosts the Get Stuffed with Love Thanksgiving food campaign supported by the Pittsburgh Police. This year over 4,500 hot meals were served.

Fr Patrick is a monastic priest living alone in an older home attached to St Mary's. The ancillary expenses which come with his disability and condition are not covered by health insurance (co-pays for numerous medical appointments, modifications to his living quarters, prosthetic devices, retrofitting his automobile for future transportation, and many other expenses). There is no doubt that it will require tens of thousands of dollars. This is a very difficult financial burden for a monastic priest in a humble parish to bear such expenses. 

St Nicholas Orthodox Church is asking you to give generously to a special fund that we are setting up to aid Fr Patrick. The amount of good that he has done, along with his faithful parishioners and many volunteers, is immense. We are asking that you prayerfully express your gratitude and compassion by giving a generous financial gift to aid Fr Patrick with these overwhelming expenses. Everything received will go directly to aid him in his recovery and in the things he will need to continue to serve the community that he loves so much. May God bless you greatly in return for your generosity.

Please use the yellow DONATE button to give by debit, credit, or PayPal. After you click DONATE and enter your amount, please notate that this donation is for "Fr Patrick." See the graphic below for more information. Thank you.

Our misson: St. Nicholas Church will strive to glorify God through Orthodox Christian worship, sincere love and care for one another, and service to those in need around us.

We are a parish of the Orthodox Church in America.

St. Nicholas Orthodox Church • 320 Munson Avenue • McKees Rocks, PA 15136
412-331-1053 • info@orthodoxpittsburgh.org