Panikhis

Panikhis, also spelled panakhyda, is a Ukrainian word derived from Greek "panikhion" meaning "vigil" or "service for the dead". It refers to a liturgical service of prayer for the departed souls, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions. A panikhis is typically held at specific times, such as the third, ninth, and fortieth days after a death, as well as on the anniversary of the death and on memorial days like Radonitsa.

The service is characterized by Psalms, prayers, and hymns, all focused on commending the soul of the deceased to God's mercy and seeking remission of their sins. It is not a funeral service itself, but rather a continuation of prayers for the soul after the initial burial. The service can be performed in a church or at the graveside. Participants often light candles and offer a symbolic offering of bread or kutia, a grain pudding, which is blessed during the service and then distributed to the attendees. The panikhis serves as a communal act of remembrance, love, and spiritual support for both the departed and their grieving family.