Grave Visitation & Prayers

Tending to loved ones’ graves is a reminder that death is a reality and part of the journey towards everlasting rest. When we pray for the dead, we affirm our belief that though we die, we are alive in Christ. This group of volunteers begin visiting the graves of St. John parishioners during Bright Week. We take turns saying Prayers for the Departed for each member, then scatter flowers from the bier of Christ in the nave at Pascha on the grave. Tradition teaches that this practice is beneficial for the deceased, and experience tells us that it’s highly affirming to the living!