THE FEAST OF ST GEORGE OBSERVED IN JERUSALEM AND BEIT JALA
On Sunday, the 3rd/16th of November 2014, the translation of the relics of St George the Great Martyr and Trophy Bearer was celebrated mostly in Lydda, and also in the Monasteries dedicated to his name in Jerusalem and in the village of Beit-Jala.
Α. In Jerusalem.
- At St George Monastery, known as St George of the Hospital, near the Monastery of the Archangels, Vespers was performed on the previous evening, led by the Most Reverend Demetrius, Archbishop of Lydda. The divine Liturgy, on the day of the feast, was performed by Archimandrite Parthenius, and had as participants nuns of the Patriarchate and members of Jerusalem’s Greek Parish and Arab-speaking Community.
On the conclusion of the divine Liturgy, Abbess Pansemne hosted guests at the Abbess’ Quarters.
- At St George Monastery, known as St George Jewish, because of its location in the Jewish quarter, Vespers was performed on the evening before feast-day. The divine Liturgy, on the day of the feast, was led by Hieromonk f. Constantine of Mount Athos, visiting from Greece, and had as participants members of our Arab-speaking flock, nuns of the Patriarchate and pilgrims from Greece, Russia and Romania. After the divine Liturgy, Nun Anna, renovator of the Monastery, hosted guests to a reception.
Β. In Beit-Jala.
At the Monastery of St George, known as St George Beit-Jala, as it lies in the homonymous village, the divine Liturgy was held on the morning of the feast, led by Archbishop Theophanes of Gerassa. In attendance were Rum Orthodox Arab-speaking faithful, including the cantors, from adjacent villages and towns –Bethlehem, Beit-Jala and the Village of the Shepherds or Beit Sahour.
On the conclusion of the service, the Abbot, Archimandrite Ananias, hosted the Prelatic Retinue and members of the congregation in his quarters.
From the Secretariat-General
httpv://youtu.be/1H3HrFhABXU
httpv://youtu.be/9Meqf7_n72A