[Lansing, NY] - On the Saturday after Theophany, January 11, the faithful of Holy Apostles Mission in Lansing, NY, gathered with guests from nearby parishes to honor a cherished annual tradition: the Great Blessing of Water. Led by Father Joel Brady, the congregation braved the chilly shores of Cayuga Lake for this solemn and joyful occasion.

The Great Blessing of Water, a profound service in the Orthodox Church, commemorates Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River by St. John the Forerunner. Through this act, Christ sanctified the waters, and the Holy Trinity was revealed to the world. The ceremony began with the chanting of hymns and prayers, invoking God’s grace upon the lake’s waters- followed by Father Jeol throwing the cross into the lake three times. This meaningful event has been a part of the mission’s life since its earliest days, reflecting the faithful’s deep connection to the traditions of the Orthodox Church. Despite the winter chill, participants embraced the moment with joy.

Following the outdoor service, the group returned to the warmth of the church for coffee, cocoa, and fellowship. The gathering provided an opportunity for connection and reflection, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among the faithful.

The words of the Great Blessing of Waters encapsulate the spiritual significance of the day:

Let us the faithful praise the greatness of God’s plan for us.
For He Who alone is pure and undefiled
becomes a man because of our transgressions.
He is cleansed with our cleansing in the Jordan,
sanctifying both us and the waters,
and crushing the heads of the dragons in the water.
Therefore, let us draw water in gladness,
for upon those who draw in faith
the grace of the Spirit is invisibly bestowed by Christ God,
the Savior of our souls.

Holy Apostles Mission continues to shine as a beacon of faith and tradition in Lansing, NY. The annual Blessing of Water not only reflects the sanctification of creation but also serves as a testament to the enduring faith and unity of the Orthodox Christian community.