Holy Week and Early Confessions:
As mentioned above, Holy Week begins on April 29 with Pascha celebrated on May 5. We invite all members and friends of St. Barbara’s to set aside this special time for entering the central mysteries of our Faith. Since we will be preparing for, then celebrating services each day during Holy Week, we ask that appointments for confessions be made early, so that Lenten confessions can be concluded by Palm Sunday, April 28. Thank you.
Agape Meal and Blessing of Pascha Baskets:
The main Resurrection Service this year will begin Saturday night, May 4, at 11:15 pm and end at approximately 2:30 am on Sunday morning, May 5. Immediately after the service we will enjoy the traditional Agape Paschal Meal. A sign-up sheet will be available in the hall for people to indicate what foods they will be able to bring. Donations are also welcome. We ask that everyone arrive “prior to 11:15 pm” so that everything and everyone will be in place for the start of the service, at which time all lights in the building will be turned off.
In addition, after the Midnight Service we will bless Pascha Baskets. Tables will be made available in the back of the hall on which to place the baskets. Traditionally these are filled with foods from which people have fasted during Lent, to be shared with others or taken home and eaten during Bright Week. For more information, please see Fr. Basil.
Bright Week and Services:
The week immediately after Pascha is an extended celebration of the Lord’s Resurrection. Although we enjoy a 40-day Paschal season (May 5 – June 12), the services of Bright Week are uniquely joyous, reflecting the specific tone and spirit of Pascha night. Divine Liturgies and Vespers celebrated during this time are very similar to those of May 5. There is, as well, no fasting during Bright Week. During Bright Week we will celebrate an additional Paschal Liturgy at St. Barbara’s on Thursday, May 9 (10:00 am). Resurrection Vespers will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 8 (7:00 pm). In addition, other Orthodox Churches throughout the Metroplex will celebrate Bright Week services, as their schedules allow. We invite you to check out their websites and avail yourselves of these opportunities. Christ is Risen!
Palm Sunday and Pascha Flower Collection:
Currently we are receiving donations for Palm Sunday and Paschal flowers. A designated box may be found on the candle table, or simply note the purpose of the contribution on a check or envelope. As always, thank you in advance for your generosity.