May 4, 2013
Wayne, WV: On Great Thursday, Bishop George celebrated the Liturgy and performed the washing of the feet

On May 2, Great and Holy Thursday, His Grace, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop George of Mayfield, celebrated the Vesperal Liturgy in the main church of Holy Cross Monastery in Wayne, WV. His Grace was co-served by the monastery’s deputy abbot, Abbot Seraphim (Voepel), monastery dean Hieromonk Alexander (Frizzell), and monastery clergy.

After the Prayer behind the Ambo, Bishop George performed the washing of the feet. The rite has the Hierarch, emulating Christ, Who washed the feet of His disciples at the Mystical Supper, wash the feet of the clergy serving in church. During the reading of the glad tidings of the Gospel by the hierodeacon, His Grace removed the signs of his hierarchal rank: his omophorion, panagia, and sakkos, after which he girded himself with a towel and washed the feet of twelve hieromonks and monks in order. The rite symbolizes great humility and servitude before the people.


Photos: Monk Anthony

Media Office of the Eastern American Diocese