The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles fifty days after Pascha, marking the full revelation of the Holy Trinity and the beginning of the Church's mission in the world. During Vespers, special kneeling prayers are offered and the church is adorned with greenery. This feast celebrates the completion of Christ's saving work and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all believers. From this day forward, the Sundays of the year are numbered from Pentecost, signifying the continual life and growth of the Church in the grace of the Spirit.

A brief night prayer service traditionally celebrated at midnight, anticipating the coming of Christ as the Bridegroom. Also called Mesonyktikon, this service includes psalms that speak of watching and waiting for the Lord, particularly Psalms 50 and 118. The Midnight Office emphasizes spiritual vigilance and the need to be always ready for Christ's return. In monastic communities, it is celebrated between Compline and Matins. The service includes the Creed and often commemorates the departed.

The central worship service of the Orthodox Church, celebrating the Eucharist (Holy Communion). Usually celebrated on Sundays and feast days, the Divine Liturgy consists of the Liturgy of the Word (scripture readings) and Liturgy of the Faithful (Eucharistic prayer and communion). The most common forms are the Liturgies of St. John Chrysostom and St. Basil the Great.

The evening prayer service of the Orthodox Church, traditionally celebrated at sunset. Vespers includes psalms, hymns, scripture readings, and incense. On Saturday evenings, Great Vespers is often combined with the Sunday Divine Liturgy. The service marks the end of the liturgical day and prepares the faithful for rest and reflection.

A brief evening prayer service traditionally said before sleep. Compline includes psalms asking for God's protection through the night and prayers for peaceful rest. During Great Lent, Great Compline is celebrated with additional prayers and the beautiful Canon of St. Andrew of Crete. The service emphasizes trust in God's care during our vulnerable hours of sleep.

The morning prayer service of the Orthodox Church, traditionally celebrated at dawn. Also called Orthros in Greek tradition, this service includes the reading of the Gospel, the Great Doxology, and numerous psalms and hymns. Matins prepares the faithful for the day and is often celebrated immediately before the Divine Liturgy on Sundays and feast days.

The commemoration of the finding of Christ's Cross by St. Helena and its elevation by St. Macarius for veneration. Celebrated on September 14th, this feast is both joyful (for the Cross's discovery) and solemn (remembering Christ's suffering). Flowers and basil are often blessed, and a strict fast is observed.

A lengthy service combining Vespers and Matins, traditionally celebrated on the eve of Sundays and major feasts. The All-Night Vigil includes the singing of "Lord, I Call," the Magnificat, the Great Doxology, and numerous psalms and hymns. This service prepares the faithful spiritually for the upcoming feast.

The 14th-century monk who founded the Trinity Lavra and renewed Russian monasticism. Celebrated on September 25th, Sergius established the monastery dedicated to the Trinity and inspired a spiritual revival in Russia. He blessed Prince Dmitri before the Battle of Kulikovo and represents the harmony between contemplative life and national service.

The Apostle and Evangelist John, author of the Fourth Gospel, three Epistles, and Revelation. Known as "the Theologian" for his profound spiritual insights and "the Beloved Disciple" for his closeness to Christ. Celebrated on May 8th, his feast honors his unique witness to Christ's divine nature and his care for the Theotokos.

The commemoration of the Virgin Mary's miraculous appearance in Constantinople, when she spread her veil over the praying Christians to protect them from enemies. Celebrated on October 1st, this feast is especially beloved in Slavic Orthodox churches. It emphasizes the Theotokos's continuing intercession and protection of the faithful.

The spiritual fathers of Optina Monastery who renewed Russian monasticism and spiritual direction. Celebrated on October 11th, these elders (including Sts. Moses, Anthony, Hilarion, Macarius, and Ambrose) guided thousands of pilgrims from all walks of life. Writers like Dostoevsky and Tolstoy sought their counsel. They represent the flowering of Orthodox spiritual guidance in 19th century Russia.

The 18th-century monk who translated the Philokalia and renewed Orthodox spiritual literature. Celebrated on November 15th, Paisius (Velichkovsky) collected and translated patristic texts on prayer and spirituality from Greek into Slavonic. His work made the treasures of Orthodox mystical theology available to Slavic peoples and influenced the Russian spiritual revival.

The 19th-20th century Russian priest known for his pastoral care and miraculous healings. Celebrated on December 20th, John served in Kronstadt for over 50 years, offering daily liturgy and caring for the poor. His spiritual diary 'My Life in Christ' reveals deep mystical insights. He represents dedicated pastoral ministry and social service.