Pascha in the atrium

We had a joint celebration this year, so all of our children ages 3-12 gathered together in our chapel.  Father came and led our celebration, and the children did all of the readings.  It was a beautiful and special time together!

Our chanters came in and chanted as the children entered.  

 Father lighting the Paschal candle.

Processing around the church together.

Listening to the reading of the Gospel.

Singing Christ is Risen!

After our celebration we each returned to our atrium and the children had a short time to work.  One of our girls settled herself in front of the prayer table and spent the rest of her morning drawing the Paschal candle.

Baking and Lazarus Saturday

Prophora for Lazarus Saturday

Making Lazarakia

Lazarus Garden with plants dug from the yard

Christ is Risen!

Another highlight.....

Who does not have chills run through them as the deep tones of Holy Friday Lamentations fill the church?  And the past few years, I wait with baited breath for another moment.  In the days leading up, my children ask, is it time yet, is it tonight?  Will he sing the bones?  And so last night, once again, we gather to experience another moment of beauty as one of my dear friends sings life into the prophecy of Ezekiel. I am so happy that this year, someone finally recorded it!

Ezekiel Prophecy

A favorite Lenten moment...

Just a quick drop in to share one of my favorite moments of the season.  So much has happened in the past few weeks and I have so many things I would like to post about and numerous drafts begun, but just living the week is all I can do now.  Here is a recording from the service, it just takes my breath away every time I hear it.

Hymn of Kassiani