This Holy Friday, the faithful gathered at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, PA, to commemorate Christ’s death with the moving Orthros of the Lamentations service and Procession of the Epitaphios.
The Orthros of the Lamentations, also known as the Lamentations at the Tomb, is a matins service on the morning of Holy Friday. It features poetic lamentations and hymns expressing sorrow over Christ’s crucifixion. The service creates a sad and mournful atmosphere as the faithful keep vigil at the Epitaphios, an embroidered cloth depicting Christ prepared for burial.
After the Orthros, a significant event unfolded-the Procession of the Epitaphios. This ornately decorated cloth, symbolizing Christ prepared for burial, was carried in a solemn procession around the church. The mournful hymns echoed the passion, crucifixion, and entombment of Jesus Christ, reminding all of the central theme of this day.
Guiding the services was His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, a beacon of spiritual leadership for the devoted faithful in attendance. The Lamentations and Procession, under his guidance, immersed the congregation in the profound sadness and sacrifice of Holy Friday, setting the stage for the joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Pascha (Easter Sunday).
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church upholds centuries-old sacred traditions that connect modern believers to the roots of Orthodox Christianity. Holy Week’s powerful liturgies and processions culminate in the Pascha service, the most transcendent celebration of the Orthodox Christian faith.