Why a fast for the Dormition?
When a matriarch is on her deathbed, family life changes. Normal rhythms stop. Focus turns to Mother.
This is what happens August 1-15 in the Orthodox Church family. Our mother – the Theotokos – approaches the end of her earthly life. We rearrange our schedule, giving heightened attention through prayer and fasting.
A primary expression of this attentiveness is the Paraklesis Service (paraklesis = “supplication”) offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the Dormition Fast. We break from normal routines to honor our beloved Mother.
In Paraklesis, the Theotokos pours out her life for us, for such is the essence of motherhood. She stands with outstretched arms in the apse (above the altar); through the service, we run into her warm, loving embrace. We seek her help, her prayers, her presence in our lives.
In contemplating the one who gave birth to God, we emulate her life: a transcendent gaze beyond earthly cares into the realm of heaven.
"The Summer Pascha"
Just as we celebrate our Lord’s Pascha after the Lenten Fast, so we also celebrate our Lady’s translation into heaven. Her tomb was found empty 3 days after burial; the apostles beheld her ascending into heaven. She alone, unlike other saints, already participates in the fullness of her Son’s resurrection. We celebrate our common hope that what she now enjoys awaits us as well. Glory to God!
Special Services During the Dormition Fast
Please submit the names of the living, to be remembered in prayer at the Paraklesis services.
Friday, August 1
The Dormition Fast Begins
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Monday, August 4
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Tuesday, August 5
Transfiguration of Our Lord
@ Millennium Park, Shelter A
- Orthros (5 pm)
- Divine Liturgy (6 pm)
- Pan-Orthodox Picnic
Wednesday, August 6
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Friday, August 8
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Monday, August 11
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Wednesday, August 13
- Paraklesis (6 pm)
Friday, August 15
Dormition of the Theotokos
- Orthros (8:30 am)
- Divine Liturgy (9:30 am)