Feast of the Transfiguration

Transfiguration of Our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ

August 6, 2011
 
Matthew 17:1-7 - After six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Eli'jah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Eli'jah." He was still speaking, when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and have no fear." And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, "Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is raised from the dead." (RSV)
 
The Glory of the Cross - Jesus is transfigured to manifest the glory of the Cross, to console Peter and the others in their dread of the Passion and to ring their minds to elevated understanding. Those who went up with him did not hold their peace but were destined to speak of the glory which He was to accomplish at Jerusalem – of his Passion and the glory of the Cross. (St. John Chrysostom)
 
Scripture Readings
 Vespers: Exodus 24:12-18, Exodus 33:11-23, 1[3] Kings 19:3-9, 11-13, 15-16
 Matins: Luke 9:28-36
 Divine Liturgy: 2 Peter 1:10-19, Matthew 17:1-9
 
Dormition Fast began on August 1st and continues until the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God on August 15th.