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 first Christian Emperor Constantine the Great and his mother, St. Helen, who found the True Cross. Celebrated on May 21st, this feast honors Constantine's legalization of Christianity and Helen's pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Their work established Christianity's place in the Byzantine Empire and preserved many holy sites.

The fiery Old Testament prophet who defended monotheism against Baal worship and was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire. Celebrated on July 20th, Prophet Elijah represents zealous faith and God's power over false gods. His appearance at the Transfiguration alongside Moses shows his continued importance in Christian revelation.

The sacrament of reconciliation through which the faithful confess their sins to a priest and receive absolution. Also called the sacrament of repentance or penance, confession restores the baptismal purity lost through sin and reconciles the penitent with God and the Church. The penitent stands before an icon of Christ while confessing to the priest, who acts as a witness and minister of God's forgiveness. The priest then covers the penitent's head with his epitrachelion (stole) and pronounces the prayer of absolution.

The ceremonial procession of the Holy Cross on August 1st, traditionally marking the beginning of the Dormition Fast. This feast involves carrying the Cross in procession for veneration and blessing. It serves as spiritual preparation for the Dormition feast and emphasizes the Cross as our protection and source of strength.

The revelation of Christ's divine glory to Peter, James, and John on Mount Tabor. Christ appeared in brilliant light alongside Moses and Elijah, and the Father's voice proclaimed "This is My beloved Son." Grapes and other fruits are traditionally blessed on this feast, celebrated on August 6th.

The Russian monk who brought Orthodoxy to Alaska and was the first Orthodox saint canonized in America. Celebrated on December 13th, Herman arrived in Alaska in 1794 and spent over 40 years ministering to native Alaskans. He defended them against exploitation and established schools and orphanages on Spruce Island.

The "falling asleep" and assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. Preceded by a two-week fast, this feast on August 15th celebrates Mary's death and her bodily assumption. Orthodox theology teaches that Mary experienced death but was immediately raised and taken to heaven, where she intercedes for all Christians.