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 Archbishop of Constantinople known as the 'Golden-Mouthed' for his eloquent preaching. Celebrated on November 13th, Chrysostom wrote the Divine Liturgy used most frequently in Orthodox churches. His biblical commentaries and moral teachings, along with his care for the poor, made him one of the greatest Church Fathers.

One of the twelve apostles, called directly by Jesus in Galilee. Celebrated on November 14th, Philip brought Nathanael to Christ and questioned Jesus about feeding the five thousand. He preached in Asia Minor and was martyred in Hierapolis. He represents thoughtful faith and bringing others to encounter Christ.

The 14th-century Archbishop of Thessalonica who defended hesychast spirituality and taught about the uncreated energies of God. Celebrated on the Second Sunday of Lent, Palamas developed theological foundations for mystical prayer and the Jesus Prayer tradition. His teachings on theosis (deification) are central to Orthodox spiritual life.

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 tax collector called by Christ to be an apostle and evangelist. Celebrated on November 16th, Matthew wrote the Gospel that emphasizes Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. His calling from the tax booth demonstrates God's grace in transforming lives. He's patron of accountants and tax collectors.

The presentation of the three-year-old Virgin Mary in the Temple by her parents, Saints Joachim and Anna. Celebrated on November 21st, this feast honors Mary's dedication to God and her preparation for her role as Theotokos. According to tradition, Mary was raised in the Temple until her betrothal to Joseph.

The 13th-century Prince of Novgorod who defended Russia against Western invaders while maintaining peace with the Mongols. Celebrated on November 23rd, Alexander won decisive battles against Swedish and Teutonic forces. He chose diplomacy over warfare when possible and protected Orthodox faith from Catholic pressure. He represents faithful leadership and defense of the Church.

The learned virgin martyr of Alexandria who defeated pagan philosophers in debate. Celebrated on November 25th, Katherine is patron of scholars, philosophers, and students. When tortured on a spiked wheel, it broke miraculously. She represents the union of faith and reason, showing that true learning leads to Christ.

A miraculous icon of the Mother of God found by hunters near the roots of a tree in Kursk. Celebrated on September 8th and March 9th, this icon accompanied Russian emigrants and is now in New York. The icon has survived fires, wars, and persecution, and is associated with many miracles. It represents the protection of the Mother of God over the Russian diaspora.

The first-called apostle and brother of Peter, who brought Peter to Christ. Celebrated on November 30th, Andrew is patron of Russia, Scotland, and Greece. According to tradition, he preached throughout Asia Minor and was crucified on an X-shaped cross, which bears his name. He represents the call to bring others to Christ.

The 8th-century landowner who gave away his wealth to help the poor and needy. Celebrated on December 1st, Philaret lived in Paphlagonia and was known for his extraordinary generosity, giving away everything including his own possessions to help others. His charity was so complete that his family sometimes went without, yet God always provided. He represents radical Christian generosity.

The virgin martyr who was killed by her own father for converting to Christianity. Celebrated on December 4th, Barbara is invoked against sudden death and is patron of miners and artillery. Her father was struck by lightning after her martyrdom. She represents faithfulness despite family opposition and protection from sudden death.

The Russian priest who served in America before returning to Russia where he was martyred by the Soviets. Celebrated on August 4th, Alexander worked to establish Orthodox parishes in America and defended traditional liturgical practices. He was shot in 1937 during Stalin's persecution of the Church. He represents the connection between American and Russian Orthodoxy.

The 5th-6th century Palestinian monk who organized monastic life in the Judean desert. Celebrated on December 5th, Sabbas founded the Great Laura near Jerusalem and established the Typikon still used in Orthodox monasteries. He defended Orthodox theology against heretics and represents the golden age of Palestinian monasticism.

The sacrament of ordination to the threefold ministry of bishop, priest, or deacon. Ordinations take place during the Divine Liturgy, with deacons ordained after the consecration of the gifts, priests after the Great Entrance, and bishops after the Little Entrance. The bishop lays hands on the ordinand while the people sing "Axios!" ("He is worthy!"). Through ordination, the Holy Spirit grants the grace needed for ministry. Only men may be ordained, and bishops must be celibate monastics, while priests and deacons may be married before ordination.

The beloved 4th-century Archbishop of Myra, known for his generosity, miracles, and defense of Orthodox faith at the First Ecumenical Council. Celebrated on December 6th, St. Nicholas is patron of sailors, children, and the falsely accused. His popularity spans all Orthodox jurisdictions and he's remembered for secretly providing dowries for poor families.