Saviour's Transfiguration: Celebrating the Apples Feast in the Russian and Georgian Orthodox Churches
The Saviour's Transfiguration, commonly known as the "Apples Feast," is a significant religious observance celebrated by the Russian Orthodox Church and the Georgian Orthodox Church. This feast, marked on August 19th in the Julian calendar, symbolizes the divine glory of Jesus Christ, and it holds deep theological and cultural significance for Orthodox Christians. In this article, we will explore the origins, traditions, and spiritual insights associated with this sacred event.
Understanding the Transfiguration
The feast commemorates the moment when Jesus took three of His disciples—Peter, James, and John—up Mount Tabor, where He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became radiant white. This event underscored His divine nature, linking Him to the law and the prophets represented by Moses and Elijah, who appeared alongside Him. The Transfiguration serves as a reminder of the divine fulfillment found in Jesus, emphasizing that His earthly ministry was part of a larger divine plan.
Significance of the Apples Feast
The term "Apples Feast" derives from the tradition of blessing apples and other fruits during the service. It is customary for families to bring apples to church to be blessed by the clergy. This act signifies gratitude for the bountiful harvest and reflects the Orthodox teaching that God nurtures us with His grace, much like a gardener tending to his fruit-bearing trees. The feast also resonates with the theme of transformation, as apples, when blessed, symbolize the transformative power of divine love and grace.
Liturgical Observances
In both the Russian and Georgian Orthodox Churches, the Divine Liturgy on the day of the Transfiguration is rich with theological meaning. The readings typically include passages related to the Transfiguration from the Gospels, such as Matthew 17:1-9. The prayers and hymns emphasize the majesty of God and express hope in the promise of eternal life through Christ's resurrection. The liturgy is often accompanied by vibrant processions and the singing of special hymns to celebrate this radiant event.
Traditions and Customs
Throughout Russia and Georgia, various customs enhance the celebration of the Apples Feast. Families often gather to share meals featuring apples, symbolizing the connection between spiritual sustenance and physical nourishment. In some regions, a special dish called 'Sharlotka,' an apple pie, is prepared to honor the occasion. Additionally, many Orthodox Christians use this time as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, prayer, and community fellowship.
Theological Reflections
The Saviour's Transfiguration offers profound theological insights into the nature of Christ and His mission. The glory revealed on Mount Tabor is a foreshadowing of the resurrection and serves as a source of hope for believers, reminding them of their own transformation through faith. This feast encourages the faithful to seek a deeper relationship with God, embodying the light of Christ in their daily lives.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the significance of Saviour's Transfiguration, or the Apples Feast, we are reminded of the profound love and grace that God extends to His creation. Celebrated with joy and gratitude within the Russian and Georgian Orthodox Churches, this feast not only honors a pivotal moment in Christ's life but also fosters community spirit and cultivates a deep sense of faith among believers. Whether through the blessing of fruits, the sharing of meals, or the rich liturgical traditions, the Apples Feast remains a cherished observance, inviting all to experience the transformative power of God's love.
