A Bright Saturday After the Nativity in Eugene, Oregon
The Saturday after the Nativity, January 11th, 2019, was especially bright this year at the Parish of St. John the Wonderworker in Eugene. After days of rain and dark skies, the heavens opened and sun shone forth, if only so briefly, to welcome His Grace Bishop Maxim. The radiance of the parish’s Christmas celebration was accentuated by the coming among them of their Archpastor. His Grace was driven down to Eugene from Portland by Father Vidoslav, who concelebrated together with His Grace, Father John, and Protodeacon Stephen. The Divine Liturgy was a happy expression of the fullness of unity that we share in the Eucharist, a unity most powerfully manifested by the presence of the hierarch. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, the Bishop gave the parish a word on the meaning of this festal period of Nativity and Theophany, stating that these two feasts are truly one, as there is one revelation of Christ. Following His Grace’s homily, the Bishop drew close to his flock giving Antidoron to all, and candy to the children. His Grace also honored Father John with a beautiful Altar cross, bearing an Icon of the Nativity, the perfect gift for the season.
With the completion of the Holy Services, everyone processed to the banquet hall, where a festive meal was held in honor of this prestigious visitation. With jubilation, the parish offered His Grace gifts and enjoyed in turn the Autocephaly wine brought to them by the Bishop. Joy and mirth reigned, as a stream of children surrounded the Bishop’s table hoping to receive more sweet things. They were not disappointed – candy rained down upon them, this Saturday being truly no exception to this liturgical season of joy. The delight of all only increased, as with the sound of an accordion, many began to dance.
As the beautiful celebration and fellowship drew to a close, Father John urged his parishioners to join His Grace and Father Vidoslav for the celebration of St. Stephen’s parish Slava in Milwaukie taking place on the following day. After a parting picture, everyone departed in the peace and joy of Christ.
