On Sunday the 12th of January the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero, one of the most significant spiritual centers of Orthodoxy in America, became the focal point of a historic and moving moment. For the first time in 23 years, the ceremony of the Casting of the Holy Cross and the Blessing of the Waters was held on the Hudson River, honoring the Feast of Holy Theophany.
With the blessing of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the day began with Matins and the Divine Liturgy of the Sunday after Theophany, celebrated in the packed church by the Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne, Rev. Fr. Andreas Vithoulkas, assisted by Rev. Fr. Samuel Davis.
Following the service, a procession of over 500 faithful from various New York communities made their way to the North Cove Marina near the iconic buildings of the World Trade Center. In an emotional ceremony by the waters of the Hudson, the waters were blessed with the Great Sanctification of Theophany, and the Holy Cross was cast into the river. Eight brave and devout individuals, defying the freezing cold, dove into the icy waters to retrieve the Holy Cross.
Young Logan Triantafillou, who reached the Cross first and retrieved it, received the warmest wishes and blessings of the day.
The worshipful atmosphere was further enhanced by the chanting artistry of Mr. Dimitrios Katsiklis, the Protopsaltis, who rendered the hymns with unparalleled mastery throughout the day.
This day holds historic significance not only for the parish of St. Nicholas but also for the wider Orthodox community in America. It marks the revival of the community of a church that was tragically destroyed on September 11, 2001, through the tireless efforts and pastoral care of Archbishop Elpidophoros, the leadership of Rev. Fr. Andreas Vithoulkas, the contributions of major benefactors led by Mr. Michael Psaros, and the parish council under Mr. Dimitrios Papakostas and the Executive Director Andy Veniopoulos.
Author: Dimitrios Katsiklis / St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine 
