Remembering Pascha at Saint Panteleimon – 2025
The Feast of Feasts
This past spring, the Monastery of Saint Panteleimon was radiant with light and joy as we gathered to celebrate Holy Pascha, the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. From the solemn stillness of Great and Holy Saturday to the thunderous proclamation of “Christ is Risen!” at midnight, every moment of the Paschal celebration drew our hearts into the mystery of eternal life.
A Journey Through Holy Week
Our journey began with the deeply moving services of Holy Week, during which the Church walked with Christ through His Passion. The reading of the Twelve Gospels on Holy Thursday, the solemn lamentations at the tomb on Friday evening, and the quiet preparation of Holy Saturday set the tone for the glory to come.
The faithful gathered each day, not merely to attend, but to participate—with prayer, fasting, silence, and song—in the life-giving suffering and victory of the Lord.
Midnight Joy: The Resurrection Service
As the clock neared midnight on Holy Saturday, the darkened church stood still in reverent anticipation. Then, with the singing of “Come, receive the Light…”, the flame from the altar passed through the candlelit faces of those present, and the joyous cry echoed through the temple:
“Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!”
The Paschal Canon followed, sung with strength and sweetness, while bells rang out and the doors of the church stood open to all. The light, the incense, the voices—it was as if Heaven had touched the earth.
The Agape Meal
After the services, the brotherhood and parishioners gathered together to share in the traditional Agape meal—a festal table filled with light, love, and celebration. Laughter, tears, stories, and songs flowed as freely as the food, and the joy of the Resurrection filled the hall just as it had the temple.
Christ is Risen: And So Are We
Pascha is not simply one night. It is the crown of our faith, the fulfillment of every prayer, and the joy that sustains us through every trial. As we reflect on this year’s celebration, we give thanks to God for the beauty of the services, the warmth of our growing community, and the presence of so many souls drawn to Christ.
Let us carry that light forward—not just until the Ascension, but into every corner of our lives.
Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!
