The bells of our Cathedral rang out with a special resonance this year as our community gathered in record numbers to celebrate the Feast of Feasts—Holy Pascha. It was a weekend defined by spiritual depth, liturgical beauty, and a profound sense of unity as we proclaimed together: Christ is Risen!
The Triumph of the Midnight Hour
The celebration began in the stillness of the night with the Resurrection Matins, served by all our Cathedral clergy. The darkness was soon overcome by the light of a thousand candles, signaling the victory of Life over Death.
Following Matins, the Midnight Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Fr. Nikolaj Kostur. It was a moving experience to see so many faithful remain into the early hours of the morning to receive the Holy Eucharist, marking the end of the Great Fast with communal prayer.
Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and a New Reader
On Easter morning, the Cathedral was once again filled to capacity for the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, presided over by His Grace Bishop Serafim.
The service was highlighted by a significant milestone for our parish family. With the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Longin, and by the hand of Bishop Serafim, Jovan Milunovic was tonsured into the rank of Reader.
Jovan is the son of Protopresbyter Dobrivoje and Protinica Jelena Milunovic. We offer our heartfelt “Axios!” to Reader Jovan as he begins this official path of service to the Church. It is a joy to see our youth answering the call to serve the Altar of the Lord.
A Sincere Thank You to the Branko Radichevich Choir
The spiritual atmosphere of Holy Week and Easter was elevated to new heights by the magnificent singing of our Cathedral Choir, “Branko Radichevich.” Under the dedicated leadership of Jelena Stojakovic, the choir put forth immense effort and talent. From the somber, haunting melodies of Holy Friday to the explosive joy of the Paschal Canon, their voices provided a glimpse of the heavenly liturgy. We extend our deepest gratitude to every choir member for their countless hours of rehearsal and their devotion to the beauty of our worship.
Fellowship and the Paschal Banquet
The celebration continued well into the afternoon with our Easter Slava Banquet. The hall was alive with the sound of fellowship as parishioners shared their first festal meal together.
During the lunch, Toma Stojakovic, Executive Board President, took the podium to offer formal remarks. He warmly greeted everyone in attendance, expressing his joy at seeing the Cathedral family united in such great numbers. On behalf of the parish, he extended a special word of gratitude to His Grace Bishop Serafim for his archpastoral presence and blessings, and thanked all the parishioners for their continued dedication and support which makes the life of the Cathedral so vibrant.
We owe a debt of gratitude to our incredible organizing crew who made this event possible. Led by Gordana Savcic, our Executive Board Treasurer, the team worked tirelessly behind the scenes. We also thank:
- The members of the Executive Board
- The numerous parishioners and volunteers who assisted with setup, serving, and cleaning.
Your hard work ensured that our “Cathedral Family” felt welcomed and at home.
A Blessed Pascha to All
As we enter into the Bright Week, we carry the light of the Resurrection in our hearts. We wish a blessed and joyous Pascha to all our parishioners and their families. May the Risen Christ fill your homes with peace, health, and eternal hope.
Hristos Voskrese! Vaistinu Voskrese!
Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!
