On Thursday, September 13, we gathered together in the evening to celebrate the Vesperal Liturgy for the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Before the icon of the feast, as well as the Holy Cross, we sang the troparion of the feast, and special hymn “Before Thy Cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy Holy Resurrection, we glorify!” You can read more about the feast, on the OCA website.
Author: St. Andrew's
Annual Memorials at Calverton National Cemetery
Thank you to those who participated in our annual trip to Calverton National Cemetery, where we prayed over the grave of our much-beloved parishioner Jimmy (Demetrios) Micros, as well as many other departed parishioners who are buried at the cemetery. Fr. John offered brief remembrances of the lives of each. After attending to the graves, our group shared a memorial meal at a nearby restaurant, enjoying fellowship and stories. Thank you especially to Charlie Kaczinski for his generosity in hosting the meal.
Exploring Faith Through Film
We are anticipating the beginning of our first Fall Film Series!
In thinking of new social activities we could host, and new ways to reach out to people both within and beyond our parish, we are going to try a trial run of film screenings this fall. This first run will include four screenings, on Thursday nights, up until the Nativity Fast/Advent. All films will be screened in the Parish Hall, on a projector, beginning at 7:00 PM. We will have popcorn, soda, and some other light refreshments. We also can have a brief discussion after each film, if the audience is interested. There is no cost or fee to attend. Friends, family, members of other parishes – all are welcome! If you have any comments, suggestions, or recommendations, please send them to info@standrewsoca.org – thank you!
Continue reading Exploring Faith Through Film
Parish Picnic 2012
On Sunday, August 19, 2012, we enjoyed some time together in fellowship as a parish family during our 8th annual “Mini-Picnic”. Thanks to all who cleaned the hall, prepared the grounds, and manned the grill. There was an abundance of great food and fun, especially centering around the intense (and, sometimes, not so intense!) game of volleyball, with participants spanning the range of ages.
Photos of the event may be viewed here.
Holy Transfiguration 2012
On Sunday, August 5, 2012, on the Eve of the Feast of Holy Transfiguration, we celebrated Vespers and the Blessing of Fruit. The blessing of fruit is a pious custom which finds its roots in the desire of the faithful to bless the first-fruits of the harvest, which become ready around the time of the feast. There is a poetic connection between the harvest and the Feast, as we see the tilled earth transfigured in the beauty of the fruit which comes forth from it, just as we see the beautiful fruit of our spiritual labors emerge in our lives. Below is an article written by Fr. John about the feast, from the most recent edition of The Cupola. Continue reading Holy Transfiguration 2012