Gregory Palamas
March 31, Sunday
November 14, Thursday
The memory of Saint Gregory Palamas, a Byzantine theologian and Archbishop of Thessaloniki, is venerated in the Orthodox Church twice a year: November 14 and the second Sunday of Lent. Gregory Palamas is one of the key saints and thinkers of Orthodoxy, whose works have significantly influenced Christian theology and especially the mystical tradition.Celebration of Gregory Palamas
November 14 is the day established for the commemoration of Saint Gregory Palamas in connection with his death. On this day, his works are read in Orthodox churches and sermons are given explaining his contribution to Orthodox teaching.
The second Sunday of Lent - on this day, the church celebrates his feast day as part of the Lenten cycle. This celebration symbolizes the victory of Orthodox theology, linking the works of Palamas with the feat of asceticism. The second Sunday of Lent becomes a kind of "second week of Orthodoxy", when the power of faith and spiritual quests are glorified.
Traditions and customs
On the days of commemoration of St. Gregory Palamas, believers:
Pray for spiritual strengthening and enlightenment, ask for help in finding inner peace.
Read the works of Gregory Palamas, which guide one to understanding mystical and spiritual practice in Christianity.
Prayers and special prayers are held in the church asking for help and protection of the saint in spiritual life.
Gregory Palamas in other years
- 2021 November 14, Sunday
- 2022 November 14, Monday
- 2023 March 12, Sunday
- 2023 November 14, Tuesday
- 2025 March 16, Sunday
- 2025 November 14, Friday