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The Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

 

Every Divine Liturgy is a joyous occasion, celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This joyous atmosphere is somewhat subdued during Great Lent, which is a time of χαρμολύπη (“joyous sorrow”), when the faithful are awaiting our Lord’s Passion. The Church, therefore, has said it is not appropriate to celebrate the Divine Liturgy during the week.

 

The only time when the Church would celebrate Divine Liturgies during Great Lent are on Saturdays, Sundays, and on the feastday of the Annunciation (March 25th).

 

However, since the Church sees it as important for its faithful to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Communion as often as possible, it created a special “Liturgy”. The consecrated Body and Blood of Christ is kept from the previously celebrated Liturgy and is given to the people during an evening service. This service, called the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts is performed in conjunction with the evening Vespers service. This Liturgy is usually celebrated on Wednesdays in our Churches (and, in some Churches, also on Fridays). The last Presanctified Liturgy of the year is celebrated on Holy Wednesday.