Robin McClelland, Globe Gazette
Published August 2, 2025
A Greek Orthodox bishop will visit Mason City at an event that’s open to the public.
His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago will visit Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church on Aug. 5 and 6 to celebrate the Feast Day.
At 6:30 p.m. Aug. 5, the bishop will speak during Vespers as well as honoring Dale and Kathy Snyder and other members of the parish for their faith, service, and love. It will be the his second visit to Mason City.
Father Nickalas March serves as parish priest at Holy Transfiguration. The parish is one of the smallest in the six state “metropolis” that Nathanael oversees. That’s part of the reason the visit is so special to North Iowa.
March says the traditions and rituals of the Greek Orthodox church are timeless. In past decades, new members were often invited by a parishioner, but now, those seeking faith can use the internet to learn about the teaching of the church and find the nearest location.
“We, together are the church here,” March said of the upcoming visit. “There’s nothing greater than us, and there’s nothing better than us, or there’s nothing besides us. We are the fullness of the body of Christ that has now gathered here in Mason City, and this is the closest that we can ever be to that period of time of being like the apostles themselves, who get to directly ask God, what do you think about this? And God then gives an answer.”
March, who spent 11 years serving a large congregation in Cypress, holds a wealth of theological knowledge. He also has aims to make connections with people looking to become part something bigger than themselves.
“In 2020, approximately 20 people were attending Sunday service (at Holy Transfiguration.) Today, there are about 50-60 people who attend Sunday service,” March said. “In 2023, there were three newcomers to the church. By year end, we expect to welcome 18 new believers.”
He says many people who take an interest in Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church have some history of church attendance.
“I don’t necessarily see people who hate where they came from or are rebelling against where they came from, but rather, they’re seeing a shortcoming, or there needs to be something more,” March said of those seeking faith. “And so it’s that they’re looking for depth. They’re looking for something that is time tested.”
“There’s something here for everyone, as long as they’re seeking that connection with Christ as it’s been offered by God to the world. So once again, we’re not reinventing stuff, right?” March said. “We are, with humility, going to say this is what has been revealed, this is what has been passed down, and this is all that we can speak about. With humility, we offer that, and we don’t move beyond that.”
Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church is located at 1311 Second St. S.W. in Mason City. Call (641) 423-6238 with questions.
