The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey will gather the faithful later this month for the Annual Holy Cross Celebration, one of the most significant traditions of the year.
On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the day begins at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Ocean, NJ, where His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey will celebrate Orthros and a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at 8:00 AM.
Following the liturgy, clergy, youth, and parishioners will move in procession to the shoreline in Deal for the Blessing of the Waters and the Youth Dive for the Cross. In this moving moment, young people from parishes across the Metropolis dive into the Atlantic to retrieve a wooden cross cast into the sea. The practice reflects the Orthodox Church’s long tradition of blessing the waters and recalls Christ’s baptism in the Jordan.
The role of youth has always been central to this celebration. Dozens of GOYAns (Greek Orthodox Youth of America) participate each year, and the diver who recovers the cross is recognized with a special blessing for the year ahead. Metropolitan Apostolos has often stressed that this tradition endures to strengthen the faith of the younger generation and to pass on the meaning of the Cross itself.
After the service at the beach, families and parishioners are invited back to the host parish for a fellowship picnic, continuing the spirit of unity and celebration.
This gathering has been celebrated annually since the late 1940s, with parishes from across New Jersey and neighboring states coming together. Beyond the rituals, it has become a day of renewal and community, where generations share in faith and fellowship.
All are welcome to attend this year’s Holy Cross Celebration and take part in a tradition that continues to unite the Greek Orthodox community of New Jersey.
Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending, as dates, times, locations, and registration information may change.