Vasilopita – A Charming Tradition
Greek Orthodox Christians herald in the New Year with the cutting of the Vasilopita, which is a cake or bread in which a coin is baked. Accompanied by a traditional song, a slice is cut for Christ, for His Mother, for St. Basil, and for each family member. The person receiving the slice containing the coin is assured of good luck for the coming year.
St. Basil has been called Great for many reasons. He was gifted with great eloquence and statesmanship, and was famed for his ministry to the poor. January 1st is the feast of St. Basil, and is one of ten times throughout the year when the Liturgy of St. Basil is celebrated.
Appropriately, at this time of year, another tradition was begun long ago by National Philoptochos. Each year, all chapters hold a fundraiser in support of St. Basil’s Academy, which is a place of shelter and education for Orthodox children in need. Kindly take a moment and follow the link and learn more about this organization. Through the love offerings of our kind parishioners, we have been able to send a generous gift to St. Basil’s for many years.
What a joy it is to enjoy the warmth of tradition, and at the same time to uphold our Philoptochos ministry of reaching out to those in need.
