Published January 08. 2024 01:45PM
Many area residents celebrated Orthodox Christmas Sunday. These pictures, taken inside St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Nesquehoning, show a decorated tetrapod, front center, which is holding an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary and baby Jesus and a crucifix. The holy altar, seen behind the iconastas, is directly behind the tetrapod. Surrounding these holy items are poinsettia plants; Christmas trees, and icons depicting the birth of Christ. Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on Jan. 7, because Orthodox churches follow the Julian calendar. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Many area residents celebrated Orthodox Christmas Sunday. These pictures, taken inside St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Nesquehoning, show a decorated tetrapod, front center, which is holding an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary and baby Jesus and a crucifix. The holy altar, seen behind the iconastas, is directly behind the tetrapod. Surrounding these holy items are poinsettia plants; Christmas trees, and icons depicting the birth of Christ. Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on Jan. 7, because Orthodox churches follow the Julian calendar. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
The icon of the Nativity of Christ sits at the front of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Nesquehoning.
Protopresbyter Father Joseph Fester celebrates the Pro-Liturgy on Christmas Day.