 On January 18 and 19, 2025, the clergy and parishioners of Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Church in Little Falls, NJ celebrated the feast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As is the tradition of the Orthodox Church, the Holy "Agiasma" service of the Great Blessing of the water was served both after Divine Liturgy on the Eve of Theophany, and After Liturgy on the actual day of the feast. After the Great Blessing of water the clergy and faithful walked down to the stream that flows through the neighborhood while singing the hymns of Theophany. There, the brook was also blessed and used to bless the faithful that were present. Afterwards, the parish congratulated Matushaka Anastasia with her birthday and along with other members of the parish that had birthdays that week.  On Sunday January 12, 2025, the clergy, parishioners, and guests of Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Church organized a Yolka celebration. After Divine Liturgy everyone made their way next door to the education building which was decorated with lights, balloons, and festive Christmas decor. The celebration began with a prayer and a few words from the rector of the parish, Fr. Mark Rashkov. During his introductory remarks, Fr. Mark thanked all of the many volunteers from near and far that helped make the celebration possible. Afterwards, guests watched a live Nativity shadow puppet show put on by parishioners of the church and directed by Vladislav Guzner. The show highlighting the events of Christ's birth and retold the Nativity story. The Second part of the celebration was full of dancing, singing, fun and games including a ballet dance performed by the Sunday School children. A live musical performance was also incorporated into the festivities put together by Irina Zagornava and her musical ensemble "Zolotoy Petushok". The both the children and adults were welcomed by Grandfather Frost (Ded Moroz) and his granddaughter, the Snow Maiden (Snegurochka). After the Yolka celebration, every child received a holiday gift of sweets and everyone continued to enjoy each other's company and the holiday potluck lunch which was organized by the parish.  On January 6 - 7 Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church celebrated the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The festivities began with Royal hours in the morning on January 6, followed by Nativity vigil at 6pm. On January 7, the clergy and faithful gathered for Divine Liturgy. During the communion of the clergy the rector of the parish, Priest Mark Rashkov read the the Nativity greetings from the Interim Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes, Bishop Matthew of Sourozh. At the end of Liturgy Fr. Mark welcomed the parishioners with a sermon followed by a performance by the parish children singing Nativity carols. The veneration of the cross concluded the service as the parish choir, lead by Alla Kerko, sang Christmas carols. The festivities continued during fellowship in the parish hall. Afterwards, a group consisting of clergy and parishioners visited a few elderly parishioners with Nativity carols and greetings. |
