Mass of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Orthodox Church teaches that Mary is without personal sins, as well that Mary truly needed to be saved by Christ, as all human persons are saved, from the trials, sufferings, and death of this world. She truly died, or “fell asleep” (hence the word “dormition”), and was raised up by her Son as the Mother of Life and participates already in the eternal life of paradise. This life of paradise is prepared and promised to all who "hear the word of God and keep it" (Luke 11:27-28) as Mary so perfectly did, saying, “be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). The feast of all Marian feasts, the Dormition in Orthodox tradition is preceded by fourteen days of fasting and abstinence. Brunch follows the liturgy; all are welcome to attend. Plan a retreat around this celebration; overnight accommodations available upon request. Please RSVP if planning to attend.