Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church
Russian Orthodox Church Abroad Parish in Berezki, Jacksons Point
Since 1957, on the shores of Lake Simcoe in the Russian community of Berezki, a parish has stood dedicated to the wonderworking Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God. Orthodox believers from across the north of the Greater Toronto Area come here to pray in their own language, among birch and pine trees that so resemble the Russian countryside.
The Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God, to which our church is dedicated, is among the most ancient icons of the Theotokos and is closely tied to the history of Russia. Like other ancient images such as the Tikhvin, Vladimir, and Korsun icons, it was brought from Byzantium. Vladimir Monomakh, son of Prince Vsevolod, carried the icon to Smolensk and placed it in the cathedral laid down in 1101, and from that time it has been known as the Smolensk Icon.
Come to the services:
- Saturday, 18:00: All Night Vigil, with confession on some Saturdays
- Sunday, 10:00: Divine Liturgy
- During the week: akathists, moleben services, and evening services on saints days and great feasts
The parish grounds include a chapel-monument to the holy Royal Passion-Bearers, consecrated in 2018. Parish life reaches beyond the services: there is a sisterhood, the children of the parish prepare Easter concerts, and the church welcomes pilgrims and guests. The schedule for the current month is posted on the parish website, and news and invitations appear on its Facebook page.
