The faithful of the "Saint Callinicus of Cernica" Mission, together with Parish Priest Fr. Ionel Satnoianu, sought to prepare for the Nativity of the Lord Jesus Christ both through the prayerful renewal of their souls and, also through the traditional customs related to this Great Feast.
On the Sunday prior to the feast, the children of the Parish School "Saint Callinicus" presented and recited traditional poems and carols as part of the Christmas performance. The beautiful program introduced us to the festive atmosphere of the Nativity of Our Savior and was followed by the children’s reception of some well-deserved gifts.
Both on Christmas Eve and on the Feast Day, the group of carolers of the parish proclaimed the Nativity of Christ in the homes of the faithful. After the Sunday Divine Liturgy, the Pastoral Letter sent by His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae was read and carols were sung in the church and the social hall alike. After the Divine Liturgy, the faithful enjoyed a fraternal meal together, thus responding to the call to become a true spiritual family, united in Christ.
The festive atmosphere continued through the Feasts of the Circumcision of the Lord and St. Basil the Great, marking the beginning of the New Year. A group of talented and enthusiastic believers (most of them former members of the "Ciprian Porumbescu" Folk Ensemble from Suceava) delighted us with ancient customs and traditions related to this time of the year, enriched with Christian elements passed on throughout the ages.
May God bless us all, give us the chance to make a good start in the spiritual life and bring forth fruits worthy of salvation!
Pr. Ionel Satnoianu
