On Holy Monday, Vespers and the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts were celebrated in our church.
On Holy Tuesday, the day of the Feast of the Annunciation of the Most Holy Mother of God, a solemn service was celebrated, presided over by the rector of the parish, Archpriest Vadim Zakrevsky. In his homily, Fr. Vadim, recalling the events commemorated on this great feast, emphasized that the Annunciation is one of the most joyful and radiant days in the Church calendar.
On Holy Wednesday, in accordance with the Church Typikon, the Sacrament of Holy Unction was celebrated. As the rector has repeatedly noted, both on the eve and on the very day of the sacrament, its essence lies прежде всего in repentance and the forgiveness of sins, including those forgotten by a person. Only as a result of true repentance is it possible to receive healing or relief from bodily ailments—something that in popular understanding is most often associated with this sacrament. Thus, it was especially emphasized that the principal content of this sacrament is repentance.
Moreover, it is fitting to recall a thought often repeated by the rector: confession and reception of the Holy Mysteries of Christ are only the beginning of the spiritual path. Due to human weakness, a person, having just received Communion, often returns again to sinful thoughts and intentions, sometimes even being aware of their sinfulness.
On Holy Thursday, the day of the commemoration of the Mystical Supper, Vespers were celebrated in conjunction with the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, as well as Matins with the reading of the Twelve Gospels of the Holy Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ.
On Great and Holy Friday, Vespers were celebrated with the bringing out of the Holy Shroud, as well as Matins with the Rite of the Burial of our Lord Jesus Christ.