Academy solemnly celebrated Epiphany

On January 18 and 19, the Bishop of Zvenigorod Theodorite, Rector of the Moscow Theological Academy, performed solemn Epiphany services at the Intercession Academic Church.

The Epiphany is one of main holidays of the Orthodox Church. It recalls a day when John the Baptist baptized the Savior in the Jordan river. At that moment Holy Trinity in the voice of God the Father and the Holy Spirit, Who descended on the Son of God in a form of a dove, appeared to the world.

Having baptized in Jordan waters You, Lord, revealed the worship of the Most Holy Trinity: the voice of the Father testified You to be the beloved Son and the Spirit as a dove assured the truth of the Father's word. Christ God coming and enlightening the world, glory to Thee»

Christ did not have any sins, so He had no reason to be baptized. However, wishing to show that He is not only God, but also a man, the Savior received the baptism from John. Soon after this, the Messiah went out preaching about the Heavenly Kingdom and the salvation for all humankind from the sin and death.

On January 18, Bishop of Zvenigorod Theodorite officed a festive all-night vigil at the Intercession Academic Church.

On January 19, Bishop Theodorite celebrated the Divine Liturgy co-served by teachers and students in the priesthood.

After reading the Holy Gospel, Bishop Theodorite addressed an assembly with his archpastoral word.

Before the Communion, Hegumen Dionisy (Shlyonov) delivered a sermon in which he spoke about Saint Philaret’s life and encouraged to imitate lives of great saints:

At the end of the service, Bishop Theodorite performed the rite of the Great Consecration of Water.

Background information:

Chanting performed by a female choir under the conduct of Ksenia Tarelkina.

MThA Press Office

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