Great and Holy Friday

Great Friday commemorates the trial, crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus Christ, recounted in all four Gospels. It is the most solemn day of the year; no Divine Liturgy is celebrated.

In the afternoon Vespers, the Epitaphios, an embroidered image of Christ laid in the tomb, is carried out and placed in a decorated tomb in the center of the church. In the evening the Lamentations are sung and the Epitaphios is carried in procession.

The faithful keep a total fast, as far as they are able, until after the evening service.