Parish News
2024
December
DECEMBER 27TH
This feast recognizes the tragic event described in the Gospel of Matthew, where King Herod, fearing the prophecy of a new "King of the Jews," ordered the massacre of all male infants in Bethlehem in an attempt to kill Jesus. The Orthodox Church honors these innocent children as martyrs for their sacrifice, recognizing their deaths as a testament to the cruelty faced by Christ's earliest followers.
Feast of the Infant Martyrs
DECEMBER 26TH
Glorification of the Mother of God
The Orthodox tradition holds Mary in high reverence, recognizing her as the Mother of Jesus Christ and the central figure through whom God entered human history. Her glorification is reflected in various feasts, such as the Annunciation and the Dormition (Assumption), which celebrate her role in the Incarnation and her transition to eternal life.
DECEMBER 25TH
This feast emphasizes the Incarnation of God, marking the moment when Jesus was born. The Orthodox tradition highlights the humble circumstances of Christ's birth in a manger, symbolizing His entry into the world as a savior for all humanity. The Nativity is a time for reflecting on the divine mystery of God becoming human, and it is celebrated with liturgical services, hymns, and special traditions that honor the significance of this event in the context of salvation history.
Feast of Nativity
DECEMBER 1ST
This is an important event that occurs shortly after the Annunciation. This event recounts how the pregnant Virgin Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth, who was also pregnant with John the Baptist. Upon Mary's arrival, Elizabeth felt the baby in her womb leap for joy, and she recognized Mary as the "Mother of my Lord." This visit is celebrated for its demonstration of the joy and recognition of God's work and the unity of salvation history,
Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth​
November
NOVEMBER 24TH
Annunciation of the Theotokos is a significant celebration of the angel Gabriel's revelation to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God, Jesus Christ. This event, occurring nine months before the Nativity of Christ, highlights Mary's role as Theotokos, or "God-bearer," emphasizing her acceptance of God's will and her pivotal role in the Incarnation. The feast underscores the unity of divine and human nature in Christ and the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation.
Annunciation to the Theotokos
September
SEPTEMBER 14TH
In the Orthodox Church, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, observed on September 14, celebrates the discovery and veneration of the True Cross by St. Helena in the 4th century. It also commemorates the restoration of the Cross to Jerusalem by Emperor Heraclius after its capture by the Persians. The feast highlights the Cross as the symbol of Christ's victory over sin and death, serving as a powerful emblem of salvation and the divine power of the Crucifixion.
Feast of Holy Cross
August
AUGUST 15TH
The Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, celebrated on August 15 in Orthodox Christianity, commemorates the falling asleep (dormition) and bodily assumption of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, into heaven. Tradition holds that after her peaceful death, the apostles gathered to witness her miraculous assumption, where she was taken up into heaven, reuniting with her Son, Jesus Christ. This feast emphasizes Mary's role as the Mother of the Church and her unique place in salvation history. It also signifies the hope of resurrection and eternal life for all Christians, following the example of the Theotokos
Dormition of Theotokos
AUGUST 6TH
The Feast of the Transfiguration in Orthodox Christianity celebrates Christ’s revelation of His divine glory to Peter, James, and John on Mount Tabor. During this event, Christ’s face shone brightly, and His garments became radiant as He spoke with Moses and Elijah, symbolizing the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. Celebrated on August 6, the feast prefigures Christ's Resurrection and represents the potential for human transformation through divine grace, inviting believers to spiritual enlightenment.
Transfiguration
JULY
JULY 3RD
The Feast of St. Thomas in Orthodox Christianity commemorates the Apostle Thomas, known for initially doubting the Resurrection of Christ until he personally saw and touched Jesus’ wounds. The feast honors St. Thomas's faith and missionary work, particularly his evangelization efforts in India, where he is traditionally believed to have established Christian communities. St. Thomas is revered for his transformation from doubt to strong belief, symbolizing the journey of faith and the witness of Christ’s Resurrection. The feast is a celebration of his life, his apostolic zeal, and his enduring legacy in the Christian tradition
Feast of St.Thomas
MAY
MAY 19TH
Pentecost is the celebration of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, fulfilling Christ's promise in Acts 2 and marking the birth of the Church. This event occurs 50 days after Pascha (Easter) and is considered one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church. The Holy Spirit descended as tongues of fire, empowering the Apostles to preach the Gospel in various languages, symbolizing the Church's mission to all nations. Orthodox Christians believe that Pentecost signifies the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church, guiding, sanctifying, and uniting believers. The feast is also linked with the Trinity, as it reveals the fullness of God's presence in the world.
Pentocost
MAY 9TH
Ascension represents Jesus Christ's bodily departure from Earth to the heavenly realm, as recounted in the New Testament narratives. This event occurs forty days after his resurrection, it symbolizes Jesus's return to the divine presence of the Father, marking his exaltation and sovereignty over all creation. Ascension holds profound theological significance for believers, offering assurance of Jesus's continued intercession and the promise of his eventual return in glory.
Ascension
MARCH
MARCH 31ST
Ressurection
For a Christian Resurrection is the cornerstone of faith, representing Jesus Christ's triumph over death and sin. It's celebrated as the ultimate vindication of Christ's divinity and the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation. Christians commemorate the Resurrection with profound reverence and joy, viewing it as the source of hope and eternal life for believers. The resurrection shapes the core of spirituality and understanding of redemption
MARCH 29TH
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Good Friday
Good Friday is a solemn day in Christianity, commemorating Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death. It's a time for reflection on his sacrifice for humanity's redemption. It is a day of reflection, penance, and mourning, acknowledging the sacrifice of Jesus for the redemption of humanity's sins. This event is the reminder of Jesus's profound love and selflessness in giving his life for mankind's salvation.
MARCH 28TH
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Maundy Thursday or Last Supper
Maundy Thursday signifies the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood, as well as Jesus's act of humility in washing his disciples' feet. This day is a solemn occasion marked by special liturgical services, including the reenactment of Jesus's washing of the disciples' feet and the sharing of communion. It serves as a reminder of Jesus's sacrifice and teachings of love, service, and unity among believers.
MARCH 25TH
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Annunciation
The Annunciation on March 25th marks the beginning of Jesus Christ's incarnation. Celebrated with special prayers and liturgical services, it highlights Mary's acceptance of God's will and her role as the Theotokos, or "God-bearer." This event symbolizes divine intervention and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing the union of divinity and humanity in Jesus Christ.
MARCH 24TH
Palm Sunday
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Palm Sunday holds deep significance in Orthodox Christianity as it commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecies of the Messiah. Believers celebrate by waving palm branches and singing hymns, echoing the praises of the crowds who welcomed Jesus with shouts of "Hosanna!" This event marks the beginning of Holy Week, leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Orthodox faithful reflect on the humility of Jesus, who despite knowing his impending suffering, willingly enters Jerusalem to fulfill God's plan for salvation. Palm Sunday serves as a reminder of Jesus' kingship, humility, and sacrificial love, inviting believers to journey with him through his passion, death, and resurrection for the redemption of humanity.
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MARCH 17TH
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Healing the blind man
This is the story where Jesus heals the blind by ….It symbolizes the spiritual blindness of humanity and the transformative power of encountering Christ. As Jesus heals the blind man's eyes, he also opens his spiritual eyes, leading him to profess faith in Jesus as the Son of God. This narrative teaches believers about the importance of spiritual sight and the revelation of Christ's divinity, inviting them to seek spiritual enlightenment through encountering Jesus in their lives.
MARCH 10TH
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Sunday of good Samaritan and bent Women
In Orthodox Christianity, the Sunday of the Good Samaritan commemorates Jesus' parable about compassion and love for one's neighbor. It emphasizes the importance of selfless acts of kindness and mercy towards others, regardless of their background or social status. Similarly, the story of the bent woman, often read during liturgical services, illustrates Jesus' healing power and his concern for the marginalized and oppressed. These narratives collectively reinforce the Orthodox belief in the transformative power of Christ's love and mercy, inspiring believers to emulate his example in their own lives.
MARCH 3RD
Healing of the Cannite Women
The story of the Canaanite woman underscores Jesus' universal mission and the importance of persistent faith. Jesus honors the woman's unwavering faith and heals her daughter, demonstrating his compassion and the inclusivity of his message of salvation.
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY 25
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Healing of the paralytic man
In the story of paralytic man, we see Jesus healing the man because of the faithfulness of his friends. A paralyzed man is brought to Jesus by friends, and unable to reach him due to the crowd, they lower him through the roof. Jesus, seeing their faith, forgives the man's sins. Jesus then commands the paralyzed man to rise, and he stands up, completely healed. This miracle highlights Jesus' compassion, power, and authority to forgive sins.
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FEBRUARY 18TH
Healing the leaper
The healing of the leper is a significant moment in the Bible where Jesus showcases both his compassion and divine authority. When approached by a man suffering from leprosy, considered untouchable in society, Jesus reaches out and heals him with a simple touch. This act demonstrates Jesus' ability to bring healing and restoration to all those who believe in him.
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FEBRUARY 11TH
The first Miracle: Wedding at Cana
The wedding at Cana, as described in the Gospel of John is Jesus’s first miracle where he transforms water into wine. This symbolizes the beginning of his public ministry. This miracle also reveals his divine nature, abundance, divine presence, and Jesus’s role as the source of spiritual fulfillment
FEBRUARY 11TH-MARCH 31ST
Great Lent
Great Lent, spanning 40 days, is a time of spiritual growth and healing in the Orthodox Church. Through fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness, believers deepen their connection with God and each other, finding solace and renewal. The season culminates in the joyful celebration of Pesaha crusification symbolizing the healing and hope found in Christ's resurrection.
JANUARY
JANUARY 22ND - 24TH
Feast of Ninevah
This is a three day feast where we commemorate the time Jonah spent in the belly of a fish.Being in the belly of the fish allowed Jonah the opportunity for repentance because of his disobedience to God. This feast prepares us for the great lent.