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Legend of the Vasilopita
The Vasilopita commemorates a miracle performed by St. Basil while serving as a bishop. The legend varies as to how St Basil became the guardian of the gold, silver and jewelry of the people of Caesarea. Some say thieves had taken the valuables from the village, and they were recovered. Others say it was a tax the government asked St. Basil to collect, but then decided to cancel. In either case, St. Basil became responsible for returning the riches to the people. However, they could not agree on the rightful owners. St. Basil suggested the women bake the valuables inside a large pita. When he cut the pita each owner miraculously received the right valuable. Today a single coin is baked inside each loaf to honor this miracle, and the recipient has good luck for the coming year. (from A Guide to Greek Traditions and Customs in America by Marilyn Rouvelas)
Cutting of the Vasilopita
Before the cutting, everyone sings the "Kalanda Protchronias" announcing the new year and St. Basil.
The priest makes the sign of the cross on the pita with a knife while saying, "In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen." Pieces are cut in a specific order. Protocol varies, but the first piece is always for Christ. The second and third pieces are usually for the Virgin Mary and St. Basil, and the fourth for the poor. Today the following pieces will be for the community, St. George, St. Nektarios, Patriarch Bartholomew, Archbishop Demetrios, Fr. Tom, the president of the parish council representing the council, followed by the organizations, workers and notables of the community - honoring and remembering those past and present.