2018 First Responders Blessing
On Sunday, July 29th, Our parish family welcomed local first responders from all over Genesee and Livingston County to the third annual First Responders Blessing here at St. Mary Magdalene.
There was representation from the Fenton City Fire Department, let by Chief Bob Cairnduff
Our own Dcn. Michael Schlaack, and Dcn. Timothy Kolb (visiting us from St. Tikhon's) participated in the blessing, which was held in front of the Shrine located on our beautiful parish property.
One of the parish families newest members, Brion Cooley, who serves as an EMT and a firefighter, helped to coordinate the first responders, and get the word out about the special blessing!
With the visitation of the miraculous Myrrh Streaming Icon from Hawaii, Fr. Gabriel was able to anoint all of the first responders with the tears that flow from that icon, which the parish received while the Theotokos was present with us.
We were also blessed to welcome members of the Fenton Police Department, with the help of Chief Jason Slater.
Fr. Gabriel explains the significance of praying for and singing "Memory Eternal" for all of our departed first responders, who gave their lives in the line of duty.
"That He will appoint a guardian angel for there works, to drive away every contrary action of the devil, both visible and invisible, protecting them from all affliction, wrath, danger, and necessity, let us pray to the Lord!"
We were extremely blessed to also welcome many EMTs from all over Genesee and Livingston County!