The original Greek term for compline is apodeipno, literally meaning, after supper. In monastic life, this service is done daily after the evening meal. In parish life, the Lenten form of this service is done at least weekly during Great Lent, typically on Monday evenings. The service is replete with psalms, hymns of intercession, and penitential prayers and hymns asking for the Lord’s mercy upon us. It is typically offered in a darkened church to reflect the liturgical mood
of the service.

Wednesday, April 1
9th Hour and Presanctified Liturgy, 5:15 p.m.

Since the Orthodox Church prohibits the celebration of the Eucharist (Divine Liturgy) on the weekdays of Great Lent, centuries ago, a service was developed that combined the basic Vespers service with the second part of the Divine Liturgy. Holy Communion that was consecrated at the prior Sunday’s liturgy is distributed to the faithful who have prepared to receive. The earlier part of the Presanctified Liturgy is the most unique part of the service, especially with the penitential rendition of “Let my prayer arise as incense…” This is a beautiful Lenten service, well-loved throughout the Orthodox world.

Although not a Lenten service in the liturgical sense, the Salutation service has become part of the cycle of services during Great Lent. These services are sections of the complete service known as the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos, which was originally connected to the feast of the Annunciation on March 25 th . It has become traditional with certain Orthodox jurisdictions, to chant the Salutations on the first four Friday evenings, and then in its entirety on the fifth Friday. Throughout the service, the Theotokos (Mother of God) is extolled for her personal holiness, and for her role as the one who brought the God-man into the world, and who intercedes to Him on our behalf.

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