(2009) Bells on Theophany Eve (Богоявлення)

St. Elias Church (Ukrainian Catholic--Eparchy of Toronto), Brampton, ON Canada.

The bells of St. Elias calling the faithful to Vespers on the Eve of Theophany.

"One of the distinctive features of Byzantine worship is that all services are chanted or sung without instrumental accompaniment. " Yet the rubrics or instructions in the liturgical books often mention that bells are to be rung before, during, and after the divine services. "These instructions are quite detailed both as to the exact times and the manner of ringing. "The bells remain stationary and the clapper swings either in slow measured strokes or in rapid repeating rhythms.

"In order to meet these liturgical requirements, Bohdan Turetsky, who wrote many of the icons on the churchs iconostasis, has designed a charming bell tower in accordance with the traditional wooden architecture of Ukraine. "The tower has a 16-foot square base and is approximately 33 feet in height. "Like the church, it is built with heavy timbers and sheathed in cedar siding. "It will serve as an aural and visible beacon calling us to worship and glorify God, who has blessed us with an abundance of good gifts." (Protodeacon David Kennedy, St. Elias Church)

One hears bells often rung, but to experience them as an integral part of the Byzantine Liturgies or to have them suddenly reach deep into the soul and exalt the Spirit, is a phenomenon almost incredible were it not actually easy to experience. The effect is quite ineffable. Come and see (or rather Hear)!

To find out more, visit http://www.saintelias.com/ca/church/bells.php)

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[cherryfilter27]

I love how church bells seem to just clear the mind. Helping the believers really concentrate on God

[Audinos]

Beautiful. I hope we hear those in heaven.