Greek Orthodox Church marks Holy Friday

By JEFF STITT

jstitt@yourmvi.com

Members of the Annunciation of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church in White Oak are marking Jesus Christ’s journey to the cross, his death and resurrection this weekend.

A small group of church members gathered Friday morning at the Summit Street house of worship to decorate the sepulchre and a crucifix holding a wooden, hand-carved and painted sculpture of Christ in preparation for the Holy Friday, also known as Great Friday, service.

The sepulchre, a symbolic tomb erected in front of the church altar, is decorated each year by the congregation with long, white candles, white and red carnations and baby’s breath flowers from Lea’s Floral Shop in East McKeesport.

Each of the details is symbolic and part of a longstanding Orthodox tradition, parishioner Helen Stratigos said.

“It is a special ceremony,” she said. “A very special service and tradition.”

On Friday evening, parishioners gathered for the Vespers of the Taking Down from the Cross. From there, the replica of Christ’s body was placed inside the sepulchre and carried by believers through and around the outside of the church.

“It’s symbolic of Jesus’ funeral procession,” Stratigos said. “We are celebrating Jesus’ life.”

To read the rest of the story, please see a copy of Saturday’s Mon Valley Independent, call 724-314-0035 to subscribe or subscribe to our online edition at http://monvalleyindependent.com.