The Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, celebrated on August 15 in the Orthodox Christian tradition, commemorates the falling asleep, or death, of the Virgin Mary, known as the Theotokos, meaning "God-bearer." According to tradition, after living a life of purity and devotion, Mary was taken up body and soul into heaven following her repose, an event that signifies her unique role in salvation history. This feast is one of the twelve Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, marked by hymns, and prayers that honor Mary’s divine motherhood and her peaceful transition to eternal life. The celebration emphasizes her intercessory role, as she is seen as a powerful advocate for humanity before her Son, Jesus Christ. The feast is not merely a remembrance of Mary’s death but a joyous affirmation of her assumption into heaven, symbolizing the hope of resurrection.
The Dormition is preceded by a two-week fasting period. Parish services will be on th 14th at 7pm and the 15th at 9am. Flowers and seeds are brought for blessing at the morning Liturgy.
