On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, marking the first week of Great Lent, Metropolitan Epiphaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine, the Primate of the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine, presided over the first Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of the year at the St. Michael Golden-Domed Cathedral.
Co-celebrated by Archbishop Agapit of Vyshgorod, Bishop Ephraim of Vasylkiv, brethren of the Golden-Domed Monastery, and invited clergy, Metropolitan Epiphaniy led the congregation in prayers. Together, they offered supplications for the well-being of Ukrainian soldiers, the government, and the Ukrainian people, as well as for the souls of all those who have lost their lives during the ongoing conflict.
During the service, Metropolitan Epiphaniy also led a special prayer beseeching the Lord’s protection for the nation.
The Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, a unique service during Great Lent, does not involve the direct consecration of bread and wine. Instead, believers partake of the previously consecrated Gifts from liturgies.
This sacred liturgy is observed throughout Great Lent, occurring on every Wednesday and Friday, Thursday of the 5th week of Lent, and specific days during Holy Week. Additionally, it is held on the days of temple holidays, as well as on select weekdays throughout the Lenten season.
Source and photos: pomisna.info
