Ecumenical Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada and America St. Michael Academy
Orthodox Bible College

Epiphany 98

Epiphany in Tarpon Springs

Epiphany in Tarpon SpringsEpiphany in Tarpon Springs Members of Saint Michael Academy Faculty traveled to Tarpon Springs this year to be a part of the celebration of the Lord's Baptism or Theophany. Our journey from West Palm Beach Florida began on Monday the 5th to attend a Paraklesis at Saint Michael Shrine located in Tarpon Springs. This is the third annual Paraklesis conducted by the clergy of Saint Michael Academy that realized many blessings for those who sought the intercessions of the Blessed Theotokos, the Mother of God. Many came for prayer for healing with many tears. "It was one of the most beautiful Paraklesis I have ever attended," said one man who prayed for the healing of his eyesight.

Our spiritual journey continued the next day as we gathered at Saint Nicholas Cathedral to celebrate the Feast of Epiphany. His Grace Bishop Alexios of Atlanta conducted the Orthos at 8:00, while His Eminence Archbishop Spyridon of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America conducted the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. The liturgy was glorious and it was truly felt that the Lord Jesus Christ was worshipped in spirit and truth. Probably the most humbling moment of the liturgy was when the clergy from Saint Michael Academy was invited to receive Holy Communion at the Altar of Saint Nicholas with all the other orthodox clergy from the Tampa Bay Area, at the hand of Bishop Alexios. Truly, what a blessing for our clergy.

After the liturgy, the Blessing of the Water took place with His Eminence Archbishop Spyridon presiding. All orthodox clergy were invited to receive a blessing from His Eminence, and then participate in the procession to the bayou for the "throwing of the cross".

What a glorious time in Tarpon Springs to worship our Lord Jesus Christ and to witness the cross be raised from the bottom of the bayou as a witness of our Lord beginning His true ministry as the Son of God.

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