From November 15 until December 24, the Orthodox Church observes the Nativity Fast (New Calendar). This fasting season has been established by our Church since ancient times for the purpose of preparing our hearts to welcome the Light of Christ at Christmas. Fasting seasons are not only times of repentance and reflection, however. They are also occasions for joy and common celebration. Within this particular Fast, and beyond our normal weekend services, are a number of important festal events we invite our faithful and visitors to celebrate with us:
- Great Feast of the Entry of Theotokos into the Temple (Vigil 6:30pm Nov. 20 & Liturgy 9am Nov. 21)
- Thanksgiving Services (Akathist “Glory to God for All Things 6:30pm Nov. 25 & Liturgy 8am Nov. 26)
- Special Visit from OCMC Missionary Monk Juvenal (Dinner before Vespers 5:15pm Nov. 28 & Liturgy with Father Juvenal 10am Nov. 29)
- St. Nicholas Feast Day (Vespers & St. Nicholas Visit 6:30pm Dec. 5 & Baptisms 9am/Liturgy 10am Dec. 6)
- St. Herman Feast Day (Vespers 6:30pm Dec. 12 & Liturgy 10am Dec. 13)
- Sunday Before Nativity (Vigil 6:30pm Dec. 19 & Liturgy 10am Dec. 20)
- Christmas Eve Services (Royal Hours 8am, Vesperal Liturgy 11am, & Vigil 6:30pm)
- Nativity Liturgy (Festal Liturgy 8am)
- 2nd Day of Christmas/Synaxis of Theotokos (Festal Liturgy 9am Dec. 26)
During the course of the Nativity Fast, our local custom is to add the service of Small Compline once a week. Each Wednesday night, after our 6:30pm Vespers and our 7:20pm Christian Education class, we will serve Compline at 8:20pm. See our online calendar for more detailed information about these and other services in November, December, and January.
If you would like to give alms to those in need this time of year, you may write a check noted “alms” or use our Paypal link: paypal.me/athanasiusoca
