Jerusalem marked the beginning of the Holy and Great Lent with significant religious observances this week. On February 23rd, Clean Monday, His Beatitude Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem, led the Service of the Great Compline at the Holy Church of the Saints, Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen.
Lenten Services Underway
The observance continued on February 25th, the first Wednesday of Lent, with the celebration of the first Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. This liturgy was held at the Patriarchal and Monastic Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, again presided over by Patriarch Theophilos III. Hierarchs, Fathers of the Holy Sepulchre Brotherhood, students from the Patriarchal School of Zion and pilgrims participated in the service.
Deacon Efstathios, the chief cantor of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, led the chanting, assisted by students from the Patriarchal School of Zion. A separate Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts was also celebrated at the Horrendous Golgotha, led by Archbishop Isidoros of Hierapolis, with nuns and a large number of pilgrims in attendance.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Patriarch Theophilos III preside over the Service of the Great Compline?
Patriarch Theophilos III presided over the Service of the Great Compline on February 23rd, Clean Monday.
Where was the first Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts celebrated?
The first Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts was celebrated at the Patriarchal and Monastic Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, and also at the Horrendous Golgotha.
Who led the chanting during the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen?
Deacon Efstathios, the chief cantor of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, led the chanting, along with the students of the Patriarchal School of Zion.
As the Holy and Great Lent progresses, it is likely to see continued religious observances and participation from both the local community and international pilgrims.
