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Pascha (Easter) Night celebration - 15-16 April 2023

 

A few useful pieces of information for the celebration of Pascha, 15-16 April 2023:

  1. There are no more COVID-19 related restrictions or requirements, but you can use a face mask if you like.

  2. The service starts at 10.30 PM, and will be very, very busy to start with, but will ease after around 11.30 PM.

  3. The church address, if you don't know it already, is: St Stylianos and St Catherine Orthodox Christian Parish, Oxford Road, Reading RG1 7NE.

  4. There are only about 300 places in total inside the church, the rest of the people will have to attend outside. There will be a loudspeaker transmitting the service outside, at the beginning, when it's most busy.

  5. If you intend to participate in the whole service, please arrive early, seats in church are first come, first served.

  6. There will be 12 security agents who will ensure the safety and order of the service. Their instructions must be followed and they will work in conjunction with the local police force, Thames Valley Police, who will also attend.

  7. There should be enough Pascha candles available for all. They cost £5 each and will be sold at a number of points on the church premises, both inside and outside. They have a flame protecting lid and last about 3 days. You can pay cash or by card.

  8. We will not be accepting open flame candles in the church premises on this night, due to increased risk of accidents. If you want to bring your own candle, please make sure it has a metal cover.

  9. You will receive, if you want, for free, a small box of blessed Pascha bread sprinkled with sweet wine, as it is traditional in the Orthodox Church. You can eat it on an empty stomach, on the morning of Pascha day after the service and share with your family as well.

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