MiembroDormition

Our parish belongs to the Diocese of the South of the Orthodox Church in America. We are a multi-ethnic community made up of Americans, Bulgarians, Greeks, Romanians, and Slavs. Our services are in English, and visitors are always welcome.

Dormition of the Theotokos Orthodox Church is named for one of the Twelve Great Feasts of the Church, which is celebrated each year on August 15th. According to Holy Tradition, at the time of her Falling Asleep, the Most Holy Virgin Theotokos was in Jerusalem. While visiting Golgatha, the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Her and announced her departure from this life to eternal life. After returning to Bethlehem, she told the disciples about her impending Repose.

At the third hour (9 A.M.) on the day of her Repose, the disciples gathered around the Mother of God and offered praise to God. Suddenly, the inexpressible Light of Divine Glory shone forth, and everyone took fright. Descending from Heaven was Christ, the King of Glory surrounded by hosts of Angels and Archangels and other Heavenly Powers, together with the souls of the Forefathers and the Prophets who had prophesied in ages past concerning the Most Holy Virgin Mary.

Seeing her Son, the Mother of God exclaimed: “My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God My Savior, for He hath regarded the low estate of His Handmaiden” (Luke 1:46-48) and, rising from Her bed to meet the Lord, She bowed down to Him, and the Lord bid Her enter into Life Eternal. Without any bodily suffering, as though in a happy sleep, the Most Holy Virgin Mary gave Her soul into the hands of Her Son and God.

Troparion of the Feast: "In giving birth, you preserved your virginity. In falling asleep, you did not forsake the world O Theotokos. You were translated to life O Mother of Life, and by your prayers you deliver our souls from death."