Detroit River Blessed on Theophany by Local Orthodox Parishes
Orthodox clergy and faithful from several Detroit-area parishes gathered on Theophany to bless the waters of the Detroit River, followed by fellowship and hospitality.
DETROIT — Clergy and faithful from several Orthodox parishes in the Detroit area gathered on Tuesday, January 6, to celebrate the Feast of Theophany with the annual Great Blessing of the Waters at the Detroit River. Participants included members of Holy Trinity Church in Detroit, Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Detroit, and Holy Transfiguration Church in Livonia.
The service was led by Fr. Phillip Dage, dean of Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral, along with Fr. John York, rector of Holy Trinity, and Fr. Dimitrie Vincent of St. George Cathedral. Dcn. Lazarus DerGhazarian also assisted in the service.
Following the prayers and blessing of the river, the faithful remained for fellowship despite the winter weather. Members of the St. Juliana of Lazarevo Ministry of Mercy, a ministry of Holy Trinity Church, offered hot chocolate and refreshments to those in attendance.
The annual gathering marked a public witness to the Feast of Theophany and the sanctification of creation through the blessing of the waters.
Previously the UOJ reported on the celebration of Nativity at Greece's largest port.
