Русская Версия

August 15, 2009
The First Feast of the Savior in Holy Trinity and Holy Cross Monasteries

On Friday, August 14, on the first day of the Dormition Fast, the Orthodox Church marks the feast day of the Procession of the Life-Giving Cross, also known as the "First Savior," the "Honey Savior," or the "Savior on the Water." At the end of the Liturgy, in accordance with the Typicon, the Lesser Blessing of the Water and blessing of honey take place. On this day, bees cease their production of honey and begin to eat their reserves. Therefore, the honey is collected and brought to church for blessing on the First Feast of the Savior.

His Grace, Bishop George of Mayfield, performed the right of the Blessing of the Water at Holy Cross Monastery, co-served by monastery clergy. Vladyka also blessed honey prepared by the monastery's apiarists (beekeepers).

We welcome visitors of the diocesan website to view photos of the blessings of the water and honey in Holy Trinity and Holy Cross monasteries:

First Feast of the Savior in Holy Trinity Monastery

First Feast of the Savior in Holy Cross Monastery

Media Office of the Eastern American Diocese