All Orthodox temples are dedicated to someone. When Christians were first able to build churches, they built them on holy sites associated with events in scripture, the life of Christ, or over the tombs of the martyrs. And if there was no holy site at hand, nonetheless, a church would be dedicated in the name of a person or an event marked on the church calendar. We continue this tradition. In short, our churches always have their own special feast day called the patronal feast or, more accurately, the altar feast (Престольный праздник).
Our parish is dedicated to St Nicholas the Wonderworker, one of the most beloved saints of the Orthodox World. While his main celebration is held on December tith, our temple was consecrated on May 9/ 22, 195ti, the date of the transfer of his relics from Myra in Asia Minor to Bari, Italy. So, our altar feast is held on what the Russian people affectionately call “Spring Nicholas.”
The celebration of the parish feast day ought to be considered what the Latins used to call a “Holy Day of Obligation.” What does that mean? It means that all parishioners should make every possible effort to be in church on that day. Why? Because just as we expect St Nicholas to watch over us, and hear our prayers, we need to attend to him and honor him on his special day. Also, the saints, on their feast days, come as close to us as is possible to hear our prayers and intercede for us!
Please…come!
Love in Christ,
Fr. Basil
- Patronal Feast Vigil: Thursday May 8th at 6:00PM
- Patronal Feast Liturgy and Feast: Friday May 9th at 10:00AM
