Paraklesis to the Mother of God - 08/11/10
On Wednesday evening, August 11th, the faithful gathered at the church for the Paraklesis (Service of Supplication) to the Mother of God. This service is offered whenever a specific need arises, as well as by custom during the Dormition Lent.
This was the first Paraklesis served at Christ the Savior Mission, and we have the Gagianas and Touloumes families, as well as some dedicated parishioners from St. George's Greek Orthodox Church in Ocean City, to thank for it. Over the past few weeks, they have joined our community for worship during their summer vacation, sharing with us their expertise in Byzantine chant.
Just a couple of weeks prior, Fr. John Touloumes (from Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Pittsburg) concelebrated with Fr. John Parsells, and shared his wisdom with the nearly 80 people gathered for the Sunday Divine Liturgy. Fr. John gave us great encouragement as he spoke of the mission of the Church and the great opportunity afforded to those who labor for the building up of the Body of Christ.
We thank all of our visitors, both those mentioned above, as well as all of the faithful who have prayed and worshipped with us this summer. May the Lord save His people and bless His inheritance!