Somerville, MA – The Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church in Somerville was filled with joy and reverence as Metropolitan Methodios celebrated the Divine Liturgy on the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos.
Metropolitan Methodios was warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr. Anthony Tandilyan and the entire parish community, who gathered in prayer and thanksgiving on this holy day. The feast of the Dormition, one of the most beloved celebrations in the Orthodox Church, honors the life of the Virgin Mary and her falling asleep in the Lord.
In his homily, Metropolitan Methodios reflected on the Theotokos as a source of comfort, intercession, and hope for all Christians. He emphasized her role as a model of faith and obedience, encouraging the faithful to look to her example in deepening their own commitment to Christ. He also asked the congregation to especially pray for our president in Alaska, where he will meet with President Putin. Hopefully, the Russian president will agree to an immediate cease-fire, so that no more soldiers lose their lives, either Russian or Ukrainian.
Following the liturgy, parishioners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the feast with their spiritual shepherd. The visit of Metropolitan Methodios served as a blessing and inspiration for the Dormition community, reaffirming the parish’s dedication to its mission of living the Gospel and honoring the Theotokos, the Mother of God.