For the third year now, the faithful and friends of Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Lansing, NY blessed Cayuga Lake during the Theophany season. Making the trek to the lakeside on Saturday, January 11th were 16 hearty people who joined their voiced in joyous prayer to God to bless this, the largest of the Finger Lakes. Before the service started, a bonfire was lit on the point at Myers Park, though it would be as necessary as in previous years. The weather was marvelous, reaching almost 50 degrees during the service.

           There was a bit of rain in the air, but it held off for the festivities. Flanked by t3 altar servers and many faithful, Fr James led in the prayers of the Great Blessing under a temporary canopy, though it was not particularly needed. Toward the end of the service, a procession walked the final feet to the water's edge. A beautiful ice cross, inlaid with petals of roses, was tossed into the lake (and it was guided by the seagulls who were in attendance).

            Turning around, one of the college students, Greg, was ready to make good on his promise to retrieve a cross from the lake. Donning a shirt proclaiming his faith and shorts more suitable for later in the year, he went in to the lake and waited for the brass cross to be thrown. It landed some feet from him, and he made an admirable dive to pluck it from the frozen depths. Then he ran quickly to the shore, where he received a special blessing. The gathered assembly then went to the fire to warm up and to partake in the treats that were served - hot coffee, hot chocolate, donuts and other tasty treats. It was a beautiful and blessed day and we look forward to next year, when several other brave souls also claim they will endure the frigid depths to raise the cross in honor of the baptism of Jesus Christ.