HolyTransfigurationOrthodoxChurcH

Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers

"The dominant theme of this Sunday since 843 has been that of the victory of the icons. In that year the iconoclastic controversy, which had raged on and off since 726, was finally laid to rest, and icons and their veneration were restored on the first Sunday in Lent. Ever since, that Sunday been commemorated as the "triumph of Orthodoxy."

(From GOARCH. Photo: Image: © Chris Lisle/CORBIS)

This icon of Saint John Maximovitch of Shanghai and San Fransisco is described as "One of the first icons commissioned in the United States." It was commissioned by, and resides in the residence of, one of our own parishioners. It was "written" by Nicholas Fotiou in late 1977 or early 1978. Nicholas Fotiou, iconographer, is also known for the illustrations he did for a children's book.

Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ

The Troparion of the Transfiguration

When Thou wast transfigured on the mountain top, O Thou Christ our God, Thou didst reveal Thyself to Thy disciples as they could bear it, enlighten us poor sinners as well, with Thin everlasing (sic) light. Through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Thou giver of Light, Glory to Thee!