20-04-2025, Antwerp

Easter in Antwerp.

On the night of April 20, 2025, before a large crowd of worshippers, a solemn Easter service took place in the Church of the Nativity of Christ in Antwerp, presided over by Archbishop Simon of Brussels and Belgium.

Before the ceremony, the blessing of the Easter cakes and paskas took place. The ceremony began with the Midnight Service, followed by the Easter procession, which traditionally began at midnight. Archbishop Simon then celebrated Easter Matins. He was assisted by the church clergy: the rector, Priest John Nedosekin, Priest Klement Samovarov, Deacon Vladimir Shitikov, and Deacon Oleg Ageenko.

After Matins, before the large crowd, the blessing of the Easter cakes and paskas took place again.

The parish choir sang during the liturgy, conducted by E.A. Lanskaya. According to tradition, the Gospel was read in several languages. At the end of the ceremony, Archbishop Simon addressed his Easter greetings to the faithful and exchanged greetings with each one, presenting a cross for kissing and offering a red Easter egg.

After the evening ceremony, a solemn meal was served.

A late Easter liturgy was also celebrated by the church rector, Priest John Nedosekin, co-officiated by Deacon Oleg Ageenko. A large number of faithful, especially those with children, attended.

After the ceremony, Easter cakes and paskas were blessed, and a meal was then served.

After the meal, the clergy and church staff began final preparations for the parish's 25th anniversary celebrations, scheduled for Holy Monday, April 21.