From Diocese of Sourozh

Christmas in the Diocese of Sourozh

The Diocese of Sourozh celebrated the Great Feast of the Nativity of Christ with great solemnity.

The Festal Vigil was served in the Cathedral of the Dormition and All Saints in London on the 6th of January. On Christmas Day, the 7th of January, two Divine Liturgies were celebrated. The celebration of the midnight Liturgy was presided by the Bishop Elisey of Sourozh and concelebrated by the clergy.

After the Divine Liturgy Vladyka Elisey congratulated the congregation with the Great Feast. "God became man so that man could become God", - said Bishop Elisey, noting that this particular patristic thought gives us a greater understanding of the true meaning of the celebrated feast. Our understanding of the ineffable love of God towards man, reflected in these words, gives us strength to face tough challenges, gives us hope to find salvation, but also gives us an obligation to respond to God. And this should be implemented in our specific actions and our life obeying the Scripture.

The celebration of the Night Divine Liturgy finished around 2.30 am.

The Late Divine Liturgy in the London Cathedral began at 10 am. Hundreds of parishioners received Holy Communion at the early and late Liturgies.

Many of the Diocesan parishes organised festive communal meals after the divine services.

Festive events and Christmas parties for children will take place in the majority of parishes.