On Tuesday, December 2, 2014, representatives from the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America (FOCA) visited St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary. While here, they shared with the students during lunch some of the organization's history including many of their philanthropic activities. FOCA has supported St. Tikhon’s for many years, most notably through their recent support of the Married Student Housing Project (MSHP), towards which they have pledged $300,000. Due to the efforts of FOCA and others, the married Seminarians also enjoy gifts from “Saint Nicholas” for themselves and their children each year, through FOCA’s Christmas Wish List program.

Representing FOCA was Michael Steffaro, who spoke to the students about the MSHP; Carol Derikson; Fr. Theodore Boback, Spiritual Advisor to FOCA; and Marge Kovach, FOCA Vice President, who spoke about FOCA’s history. The seminary’s rector, His Grace, Bishop Michael (Dahulich), also shared a story with the students of a time when FOCA assisted a church that was in need, and how much that help meant to the faithful that were there. He then urged all of the Seminarians to join with FOCA in support of the Seminary.

St. Tikhon’s Seminary would like to thank FOCA for their visit, and for all of the support that they have provided over the years, and continue to provide, to ensure the long term sustainability of St. Tikhon’s Seminary.