May 10, 1999
The Pious Pastors
of the Holy Diocese of Denver
Beloved in the Lord,
As we approach the Leave-Taking (Apodosis) of Pascha, many of you are preparing to remove the epitafion from the Holy Altar and to return the icon of the Crucified Christ to the large cross behind the Altar.
These actions are not done casually, nor are they merely "housekeeping" chores in the sanctuary. Our holy Church has provided a specific procedure and service to accomplish these, and these should be followed for the edification of the faithful and out of respect for the holy objects involved.
My paternal suggestion to you, then, is to use the enclosed Apodosis (Leave-Taking) of Pascha Service booklet on Wednesday evening, May 19, 1999, immediately prior to the Vespers for the Feast of the Ascension in your parish.
May the remainder of this Paschal period and the coming Great Feasts of the Ascension and of Pentecost be most spiritually beneficial for you, your beloved family members, and your faithful parishioners.
With Paternal Blessings,
+Metropolitan Isaiah
Presiding Hierarch
of
the Diocese of Denver