Ohio Parish Celebrates Great Blessing of Waters on Lake Erie
Clergy and faithful of St. Nicholas Church gather in Mentor, braving strong winds to mark Theophany with traditional rite
MENTOR — On Sunday, January 11, the Sunday after the Feast of the Lord’s Theophany, more than 40 clergy and parishioners of St. Nicholas Church (OCA) in Mentor, Ohio, gathered at Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park to celebrate the Great Blessing of Waters on Lake Erie.
As shared in a release by the OCA's Diocese of the Midwest, the service was led by Fr. Mark Therrien, with Fr. Peter Simko concelebrating. While the day began with sunshine and light winds, conditions changed rapidly as the service commenced, with winds increasing to near-gale force and rough waves on the lake — circumstances that underscored the solemnity of the rite and evoked the Jordan River receiving Christ at His baptism.
In a brief homily, Fr. Mark urged the faithful to reflect on the significance of the blessing, noting that the sanctified waters would reach countless people and serve as a sign of God’s mercy. Following the service, participants gathered around a campfire to warm themselves and continue fellowship.
Previously, UOJ reported that the Detroit River was blessed by local parishes on Theophany.
