You can celebrate Celtic orthodoxy, Celtic heritage, and the Celtic roots of East Tennessee on Saturday, May 14, in Oak Ridge.
The Celtic heritage of East Tennessee and Appalachia runs deep, sharing so much in common—from food to language, music, and dance, and the sense of the sacred, a press release said. The peoples of the British Isles were Orthodox Christians for more than a thousand years, producing many of the world’s most-loved saints, and a spiritual heritage second to none.
The St. Brendan’s Orthodox Celtic Festival at St. Anne Orthodox Church in Oak Ridge on Saturday is a celebration of Celtic and Appalachian culture and folkways, of our common spiritual heritage of Orthodox Christianity, and of great music, food, and dance, the press release said.
Food
- Irish fare from St. Andrews Square
- Big O’s BBQ
- Ice cream from Razzleberry’s
Music and Dance
- 11-12—Oak Ridge Folk Dancers
- 12-1—Myrrh-bearers Dancers
- 1-2:30—Rowena Irish Dance School
- 3-4:00—Red-Haired Mary
- 4-5—Shamrock Road
Arts/Crafts/Vendors
- Handmade Celtic jewelry and crafts
- Chainmail designs
- Orthodox icons and books
Kids Activities
- Children’s crafts
- Inflatables
Speakers
- Father Stephen Freeman, rector at St. Anne Orthodox Church, author of the popular podcast “Glory to God” on Ancient Faith Radio.
- Terry Mattingly, journalist, professor, and nationally syndicated columnist
Celtic Games
Watch or participate in caber toss, kettle toss, and hay toss, and shot put!
Church Tours with Q&A
Vespers at 5 p.m.
Vespers (εσπερινός) is first service of the Daily Cycle of divine services celebrated in the Orthodox Church. Because the liturgical day begins at sunset, Vespers is traditionally served in the early evening. For many parishes, Vespers is the principal evening service.
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This event is free to the public! (A $3 donation is suggested)
For more information, please email st.brendans.festival@stanneorthodoxchurch.com.
This press release was submitted by Craig Spaulding.
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