Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary Slava – August 30, 2020

          As glorious as Slava 2019 was, that is how somber 2020’s Slava was.  Quiet joy was noted on everyone’s face who was able to attend the Divine Liturgy today.  However, we all missed those who were unable to share in our prayers.

          As Vladika Maxim stated at the end of the service, the Virgin Mary’s name is often remembered for her utter devotion to her son, Jesus Christ.  His devotion for her is returned in loving manner.  What she requests, He does.  She is our Blessed Protectress in the heavenly heights.  As we prayed today, as the beautiful voices of our Choir members sang the responses and as our beloved Vladika, our loving Fr. Dane and our always welcome Deacon Dragan from Jackson served – we felt the warmth of Heaven surrounding us.  Yes, this celebration may have been different from all other Slavas, but, for those of us who gathered together to pray, we all left feeling thankful for the day.

          As with all celebrations, some special words of Thanks are extended to those who tirelessly offered their time and talents to make this a special day.  To those who physically ‘set up’ AND dismantled the patio area to serve as our ‘outside Church’ – may your hands be blessed.  To those who watched over the candles and donations – may your prayers be heard  To Miroslav and Zorica Ilic, our Kumovi, who offered the wonderful Kolach and Zhito – may your home feel the presence of Our Lord and His Mother.  To Rade and Adriana Radulovich (Kumovi for 2021) – may your swiftness to volunteer bring you happiness.  To the flower donors and children who ‘offered’ bouquets to Vladika – may your joy of God’s beauty in this world warm your hearts.  To those who served at the Altar table – may your service be pleasing to Our Lord.

          As Vladika Maxim reminded us at the conclusion of the service, we honor, love, and call upon the Blessed Virgin Mary all during our lives – sometimes, even more often than Jesus Christ.  May ALL of us who prayed together today both in our outdoor Church and in our homes have our prayers found to be pleasing to Our Lord and His Mother.