On Tuesday of the second week after Pascha, the Orthodox Church appoints a special commemoration of the departed. On this day, the brethren of the Dormition Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra fervently prayed for the repose of their fellow monks who have departed into eternity.

On the eve of Radonitsa, a memorial service was traditionally served at the Zvirynets Cemetery in the capital.

On the day of commemoration itself, an early Divine Liturgy for the departed was celebrated in the Annunciation Conception Church of the Lavra, followed by a memorial service at the monastery cemetery. The services were led by the dean of the monastery, Archimandrite Hilarion, concelebrating with the brethren in sacred rank. On the previous evening, a Paschal memorial service was also served in the Church of St Agapitus of the Caves.

Memorial services for the departed brethren are likewise traditionally served at the братское cemetery located at the monastery’s skete on Yahidna Street.

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St John Chrysostom says: “It was not in vain that the Apostles ordained the commemoration of the departed before the Dread Mysteries: they knew that great benefit and blessing come to the departed from this.”

Therefore, through the prayers of the Most Holy Theotokos, our venerable and God-bearing Fathers of the Caves, and all the saints, may the Lord grant rest to the souls of all the departed brethren of our monastery and lead them to the peaceful harbour of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Eternal memory to you, our ever-memorable and most blessed fathers and brethren. Christ is Risen!

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