synaxes

Synaxes, also known as synaxaria, are a type of Christian liturgical service that typically takes place in Eastern Orthodox churches. The term "synaxes" comes from the Greek word "synaxis," which means "assembly" or "gathering." These services are usually held on the feast days of saints, martyrs, or other significant figures in the Christian calendar. The primary purpose of a synaxes is to honor and commemorate the life and deeds of the saint or martyr being celebrated.

During a synaxes, the church is adorned with icons, flowers, and other decorations that represent the saint. The service begins with a procession, often led by the priest, during which the icon of the saint is carried through the church. This is followed by a series of readings from the Bible and the lives of the saints, which are often accompanied by hymns and prayers. The service culminates in the Divine Liturgy, during which the priest offers prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the saint and the community.

Synaxes are an important part of the liturgical calendar in Eastern Orthodox churches, as they provide an opportunity for the faithful to reflect on the lives of the saints and to seek their intercession in their own lives. They are also a time for the community to come together and celebrate the rich heritage of the Christian faith.