The special solemn divine service of the Orthodox Church is performed only once a year on the Saturday of the Akathistus.

According to the statute, on the fifth week of Great Lent, at Matins, the Akathistus to the Annunciation of the Mother of God is read, divided into four parts, each of which begins and ends with the singing of the kontakion “The Victorious Leader of Triumphant Hosts”.

On the eve of the feast during the Friday evening and on the very day of the feast, the Vicegerent of the Monastery, Metropolitan Pavel of Vyshgorod and Chernobyl headed the divine service in the Great Church of the Kyiv-Caves Lavra.

After reading the Gospel at the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Pavel addressed the parish with parting words, recalling the history of the establishment of this special feast of Great Lent. At the end of the Liturgy, Metropolitan Pavel congratulated all on the joyous feast of the Praise of the Most Holy Theotokos, and the communicants on the acceptance of the Life-Giving Sacraments of Christ, wishing the unceasing protection of the Heavenly Queen and calling God’s blessing upon all the praying in the church that day.

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