Christ is Risen!
Please forgive the lack of specific names. The work accomplished Holy Week and Pascha was indeed a team effort, and there are far too many people to remember for whom we are most grateful.
HIGH SPIRITS, INCLEMENT WEATHER:
Rain, thunder and brilliant displays of lightning led to a smaller than normal gathering for the midnight service, late May 4 and very early May 5. The crowd was similar in size to a good Sunday attendance. We welcomed, though, a number of visitors along with old friends who braved the elements for “the feast of feasts.” As someone pointed out, spirits were high during the Resurrection celebration despite the threats from “mother nature.”
One newcomer teared up during much of the service. Listening to Paschal hymns, she fondly remembered “days gone by” at her former out of state Orthodox parish. Several people declared their desire to learn more about, and/or to begin an official program of study to enter the Orthodox Church. The Power of Pascha is indeed great, touching the hearts of everyone.
The choir did an outstanding job, as they had done throughout Lent and Holy Week. Their enthusiasm was contagious. They sang the beloved hymns of Pascha with both beauty and energy. We look forward to many “Christ is Risen’s” during the next forty days.
Altar servers, tomb and lighting crews did amazingly well, adapting seamlessly to Plan B, as we call it: i.e., Indoor Processional Procedures used during inclement weather. With their assistance, as “Thy Resurrection” was being sung and candles lit in a dark Church, the tomb itself seemed to disappear miraculously. The Gospel of the Resurrection was then chanted (Matthew chapter 28), the start of Paschal Matins was intoned, followed by “Christ is Risen’s.” Lights throughout the building were suddenly aglow and constant hymns of festal joy were heard: i.e., the Canon, the Praises, as well as the traditional catechetical sermon of St. John Chrysostom. All without ever leaving the protective confines of the temple.
Our resident photographer made his way stealthily throughout the entire celebration. We anxiously await the results of his efforts.
Greeters and security team members had an active night, welcoming members at their cars with umbrellas, carrying in heavy crockpots, and speaking with late night pedestrian passerby’s who wondered – were somewhat confused – at the sight of such activity at 11:15 pm.
Medical team members, fortunately, had an uneventful night but were on hand and ready for any serious health complications. Much appreciation to all.
LITURGY and AGAPE MEAL:
The Paschal Liturgy began at approximated 1:00 am with special festal antiphons. The Epistle from Acts was read (Acts 1:1-8), followed by the main Gospel of the feast (John 1:1-17). This was chanted in English, then Russian, Galic, Ukrainian, Georgian and Spanish. We appreciated our readers lending their talents and voices.
The Creed was sung with notable gusto, followed by the consecration of the gifts, and the singing of the much beloved, “The Angel Cried…” During the priest’s communion further Paschal hymns were sung. The Liturgy ended at around 2:30 am with a final dismissal prayer. Paschal greetings were exchanged, food and Paschal baskets were blessed.
The highly anticipated Agape Meal featured a very nice selection of delicious salads and sides, with a wide array of meats, cheeses, creamy desserts, beverages and additional delicacies. We are very grateful to members and friends who brought food and drink in abundance for “the feast of feasts,” as well as to those who helped with set-up and clean-up before and after the meal.
A stalwart cleaning crew met on Holy Tuesday morning for a final cleaning of the Church prior to Pascha. The temple always looks and smells quite nice following their efforts. Florals and other decorations were beautifully prepared then put into place on Holy Friday and Holy Saturday afternoon, following the Burial Vespers and the Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil.
PASCHAL VESPERS:
When all was said and done, the last individuals left St. Barbara’s at about 5:00 am Sunday morning. Some grabbed a good 3 or 4 hours of sleep before returning for the 12 noon Paschal Hours and Vespers. A great way to start Bright Week.
Each year we enjoy a different crowd for Sunday Vespers. This year the Vesper group was a diverse mix of both members and visitors. An extension of the Agape Meal was served from the kitchen counter – more or less family style – after the singing of “Christ is Risen” and a blessing.
Good discussions and fellowship ensued, followed by clean-up and final greetings. The last individuals departed at about 4:00 pm, anticipating the Paschal services this coming week.
THANK YOU’S:
Once again, we express our sincere appreciation to all, and apologize if we forgot to mention any hardworking groups. Heads are still reeling with Paschal joy. To those unable to be with us, your presence was missed and we hope to see you in the days ahead. Christ is Risen!