Join Us for the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos – Friday, April 4, 2025

As we journey through Great Lent, a season of repentance, prayer, and spiritual renewal, we invite you to join us at St. George Orthodox Church for the solemn and beautiful Akathist Hymn to the Most Holy Theotokos on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 5:00 PM.

This service, observed on the Fifth Friday of Great Lent, carries profound spiritual significance in Orthodox Christian tradition. It is a moment to raise our hearts in devotion, seeking the intercession of the Theotokos as we progress in our Lenten journey toward Holy Pascha.

What is an Akathist?

An Akathist Hymn is a profound, poetic expression of praise and supplication, often dedicated to Christ, the Theotokos, or a saint. The term “Akathist” (Ἀκάθιστος) translates to “not sitting” in Greek, as the faithful stand while it is chanted in a gesture of reverence. The Akathist to the Theotokos is the most well-known and cherished among Orthodox Christians, honoring the Mother of God as the protector and intercessor of all.

Historical Background

The Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos dates back to the 7th century and is traditionally attributed to St. Romanos the Melodist. It gained particular significance following the miraculous deliverance of Constantinople from invaders in 626 AD, an event credited to the intercession of the Theotokos. Since then, Orthodox Christians have chanted this hymn as a gesture of gratitude and supplication, acknowledging the Theotokos as their guardian and helper.

Why is this service important?

1. A Prayer of Profound Devotion to the Theotokos
   • The hymn expresses love and reverence for the Theotokos, recognizing her role as the Mother of God and intercessor for all believers.
2. A Celebration of the Mystery of the Incarnation
   • The hymn poetically recounts the Annunciation and the Incarnation events, highlighting Christ’s divine and human nature.
3. A Powerful Prayer for Protection and Guidance
   • Orthodox Christians turn to the Theotokos for help, healing, and protection, especially during the trials of Great Lent.
4. Strengthening Our Lenten Journey
   • As Great Lent is a time of repentance and renewal, the Akathist reminds us of God’s mercyand the Theotokos’ maternal care.

The Fifth Friday of Great Lent

During Great Lent, the Akathist Hymn is divided into four parts and is chanted on the first four Fridays of Lent during the Small Compline service with the Salutations (Χαιρετισμοί) to the Theotokos. On the Fifth Friday, the entire Akathist Hymn is chanted in full, marking a significant high point in Lenten devotion and preparing the faithful for Holy Week.

This service is a powerful reminder of the Theotokos’ constant protection and love for us, drawing us closer to Christ as we progress on our Lenten journey.

Join us in prayer.

We invite you and your family to join us for this special service on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 5:00 PM at St. George Orthodox Church. Together, let us raise our voices in praise, seeking the intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos as we prepare our hearts for the joy of Holy Pascha.