May 14, 2016
Nanuet, NY: Pascha & Bright Monday at Holy Dormition Convent "Novo-Diveevo"

On Saturday, April 30, and Sunday, May 1, the feast of the Glorious Resurrection of Christ – Pascha, the clergy and parishioners of Holy Dormition Convent "Novo-Diveevo" joyfully greeted the "Feast of feasts."

The Paschal services began with the Midnight Office, and at midnight, the Paschal procession of clergy and parishioners began. At the doors to St. Seraphim’s Cathedral, the long-awaited words rang out: "Christ is Risen!" and Paschal Matins began, followed by the Divine Liturgy. The divine services were led by the convent’s senior clergyman, Archpriest Alexander Fedorowski, co-served by convent clergy: Archpriest Yaroslav Belikow, Protodeacon Serge Arlievsky, and Hierodeacon Panteleimon (Jigalin).

At the festal divine services, the parish choir sang under the direction of Matushka Maria Fedorowski. Praying in church alongside the multitude of parishioners were the convent’s sisterhood, led by Abbess Makaria.

Both before and after the service, the clergy blessed the Pascha baskets, and after Liturgy, the traditional Paschal meal was held in the parish hall.

The following day, on Bright Monday, the Divine Liturgy was served, and a procession held around the church.

Media Office of the Eastern American Diocese