The evening began with the Akathist to the Holy Theotokos. Then the bells rang out across the town of Abbotsford to welcome our congregation.
The liturgy began with solemn chants from the clergy. Fr Mark read the epistle and then Fr Matthew read from the Gospel according to St Matthew. It spoke of Jesus healing a young boy, and reminding his disciples that with the faith of a mustard seed they could move mountains.
Metropolitan Raffaele then gave his homily dedicated to Mother Mary. He spoke of Mary’s parents, to whom God gave the gift of Mary. He told of the many times Jesus honoured and venerated His mother, and of the wonder of her passing and resurrection.
The liturgy continued and the Gifts were brought, honored and blessed; then communion was shared by the clergy and community.
The celebrations concluded with veneration of the relics of Mary and her veil. And then agape was shared by all.
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