The Nativity of the Mother of God Romanian Orthodox Parish in Austin, Texas, witnessed a deeply moving spiritual occasion late last month when ten members of the same family received Orthodox baptism.
Accompanied by ten different godparents, the family members participated in the Baptismal Divine Liturgy following more than a year of catechesis, prayer, study, searching and sincere effort, according to parish priest Fr Gabriel Ilieș.
The priest explained that their journey towards Orthodoxy had involved many years of searching, during which they visited and became acquainted with various Christian communities.
“The family members said that when they first entered an Orthodox church, they immediately felt something familiar. They had a profound sense that they had finally found the Church they had been searching for over so many years,” the parish priest said.
Christ shows the way to those who seek Him
Throughout their catechumenate, the parish community welcomed, encouraged and supported the newcomers.
“For our community, this day was much more than a beautiful service. It was a living testimony that the Church continues to welcome those who sincerely seek Christ and wish to enter fully into His sacramental life,” Fr Gabriel Ilieș said.
“We thank God for guiding this family and for granting our community the blessing of witnessing such a joyful occasion. May Christ strengthen the newly baptised, guide them throughout their lives and always keep them close to His Holy Church!”
About the parish
The parish, which began as an Orthodox mission in Texas, is located at 200 Monaco Drive, Cedar Park, TX 78613. Further contact information is available on the website of the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas.
On Wednesday, 7 October 2026, at 8 pm local time, the parish was scheduled to receive the Hawaiian Myrrh-Streaming Icon of the Mother of God for veneration.
The community is also preparing for the consecration of its church, marked by a series of liturgical and cultural events from 13 to 15 November.
