DETROIT, MI [DOM] – For the first time in recent memory, Orthodox faithful gathered on the Feast of Theophany to bless the Detroit River. Represented were faithful from the Detroit area Diocese of the Midwest communities of Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral, and the parishes of Holy Trinity (Detroit), Holy Transfiguration (Livonia), and St. Mark (Rochester Hills).
The service took place in the middle of the river on Belle Isle in downtown Detroit. With the weather in the low 20s, young and old bundled in blankets and coats as they stood on the beach where the service was held. The Great Blessing of Waters was served by Archpriest Lev Kopistiansky, Priest Phillip Dage, Dean of Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Priest John York, Rector of Holy Trinity Church, and Deacon Lazarus DerGhazarian.
A cross dive followed the blessing of the river. Six people jumped into the icy waves to retrieve the cross, symbolizing the triumph of Christ over death. The successful diver this year was Dan Haller of Holy Transfiguration parish.
This blessed event was a wonderful witness to the glory of our faith to the city of Detroit.
