Christ is Risen!
We are excited to announce that His Grace, the Right Reverend Gerasim, Bishop of Ft. Worth will visit St. Barbara’s on June 2, the Sunday of the Samaritan Woman. We are especially happy that his Spring visit will take place once again during the Paschal (Easter) Season. The timing will allow for the singing of festal hymns and the freedom to serve a wide variety of foods at the post-liturgical reception.
The faithful will greet His Grace that day at 9:30 am, at the front doors of the Church. Customarily, when receiving a hierarch into their midst, Orthodox Christians in America maintain a balance of formalities along with experiencing the bishop as a beloved father in Christ. We certainly offer great respect and proper protocol. We do so, though, with love, knowing that His Grace is “one of us.” Together we strive to, “work out our salvation with fear and trembling,” as told to us by St. Paul. With these things in mind, we look forward to Bishop Gerasim’s visit and to the celebratory reception that will follow the Divine Liturgy.
The liturgical focus that weekend – in addition to the Resurrection – will be the Woman of Samaria and her conversation with Christ at Jacob’s Well (John 4). The theme of “living water” will be emphasized, as well as the recognition of Jesus as God’s Messiah (John 4: 10-11; 25-26). We will be reminded of our new life in Him, of our own drinking of the “living water,” and of the true worship of God experienced in the Christian Messianic Age “in Spirit and in Truth” (John 4: 23-24). We will hear as well, that salvation is offered to all: Jews and Gentiles, men and women, saints and sinners (Fr. Thomas Hopko: The Orthodox Faith, Volume II).
HIERARCHICAL RECEPTION:
In light of Pascha, the reception on June 2 may include all foods. The main dish is being planned, taking into consideration His Grace’s dietary requirements. Additional dishes and desserts will be needed. A sign-up sheet will be posted in the Church Hall. Please see Matushka Christine for more information. In addition, we will be planning a cleaning party, as well as special choir and altar-server rehearsals. As is customary, His Grace will be accompanied by at least one deacon, as well as subdeacons from the Cathedral. We will see everyone on June 2. Please arrive prior to 9:30 am. Thank you.