Feast of Orthodoxy
March 24, Sunday
Historical context
In the 8th–9th centuries, the Byzantine Empire was shaken by the iconoclastic heresy, during which the veneration of icons was strictly prohibited. The iconoclast emperors believed that icons distracted believers from the true faith and contributed to idolatry. Iconodules, on the contrary, saw icons as a means of communion with the spiritual world and a reflection of the holy places.
After much debate and persecution of icon supporters, the Seventh Ecumenical Council (787) finally confirmed the right of Orthodox Christians to venerate icons. However, the final victory was achieved only in 843, when Empress Theodora restored the veneration of icons. In memory of this event, the holiday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy was established.
Traditions of the holiday
The Triumph of Orthodoxy is celebrated with a special service and prayers. During this service, parishioners thank God for strengthening the Orthodox faith and honor all those who defended and upheld the veneration of icons. The main moments of the celebration include:
The Rite of the Triumph of Orthodoxy. During the service, a special rite is performed, called the "Rite of the Triumph of Orthodoxy". It proclaims the victory of the true faith over heresies, and remembers the great fathers and teachers of the church who defended Orthodoxy.
Procession with icons. In many churches, after the liturgy, a religious procession with icons is held. Priests and parishioners, carrying icons, walk around the church, glorifying the Lord and the victory of icon veneration.
Commemoration of the Holy Fathers. The holiday is an occasion for a prayer of thanksgiving for all the Holy Fathers, martyrs and confessors who fought to preserve the Orthodox faith.
Council reading of anathemas. In some churches, anathemas are read - renunciations of heretical teachings and curses against false teachings that tried to undermine the foundations of the Orthodox faith.
Feast of Orthodoxy in other years
Feast of Orthodoxy in other countries
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