WESTERN EUROPEAN DIOCESE: On the feast day of Apostle James, Archbishop Seraphim performs the liturgy of Apostle James at Lesna Convent--5 Novembe 2003

Liturgy on the day of the Holy Apostle James, in Lesna Convent

On 5 November, on the day of Holy Apostle James, brother of the Lord, Archbishop Seraphim (Dulgov) served the liturgy for St. James along with Protopriest Christo (Petkov) and Deacon Andre (Meillasoux). Vladyka Seraphim studied this liturgy for many years, comparing various translations and compositions of this rare service, and he performs this service with great inspiration and profound understanding.

According to the tradition that has arisen over recent years, Vladyka preached on the topic of Scripture of the Old Testament. This year the reading was from the Book of Genesis, on Noah's ark, and Vladyka spoke ov the ark as of the Old Testament prototype of the Church of Christ, drawing a comparison to the basket into which the infant Moses was place, and the boat upon which the Apostles sailed when the Savior approached them, walking on water. Vladyka Seraphim drew upon analyses of St. Andrew of Crete and St. John Chrysostom on these passages of Holy Scripture.
The unusual, yet simple format of the service, imbued with Eucharistic prayer, more detailed supplications in its litanies and the repentant spirit of this liturgy made a deep impression on all the worshipers.