Feast of Orthodoxy

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Triumph orthodoxy

Feast of Orthodoxy

The Feast of Orthodoxy, also known as the Sunday of Orthodoxy, is celebrated on the first Sunday of Great Lent in the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Eastern Catholic Churches of the Byzantine Rite. This feast commemorates the restoration of the veneration of icons and the end of the iconoclastic controversy in the Byzantine Empire.

Historical Background

The iconoclastic controversy was a period of significant theological and political conflict within the Byzantine Empire, spanning from the early 8th century to the mid-9th century. The controversy centered around the use and veneration of icons (religious images) in worship. The Iconoclasts (those who opposed the use of icons) argued that the veneration of icons was tantamount to idolatry, while the Iconodules (those who supported the use of icons) believed that icons were a vital part of Orthodox Christian worship and theology.

The controversy was resolved in 843 AD during the reign of Empress Theodora, who was a staunch supporter of the veneration of icons. The Seventh Ecumenical Council, also known as the Second Council of Nicaea, held in 787 AD, had previously affirmed the veneration of icons, but it was Theodora's efforts that led to the final restoration of icons to the churches.

Liturgical Celebration

The Feast of Orthodoxy is marked by a special service known as the "Triumph of Orthodoxy." During this service, the faithful participate in a procession carrying icons, and the Synodikon of Orthodoxy is read. The Synodikon is a proclamation that reaffirms the decisions of the Seventh Ecumenical Council and anathematizes those who oppose the veneration of icons.

The service also includes the chanting of hymns and the reading of scripture passages that emphasize the importance of the Incarnation and the role of icons in Orthodox Christian worship. The Feast of Orthodoxy is a time for the faithful to celebrate the victory of Orthodox Christianity over heresies and to reaffirm their commitment to the Orthodox faith.

Significance

The Feast of Orthodoxy holds great significance for the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Eastern Catholic Churches of the Byzantine Rite. It is a celebration of the triumph of Orthodox Christian theology and the restoration of the veneration of icons, which are considered windows to the divine. The feast also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the true faith and resisting heresies.

Related Observances

The Feast of Orthodoxy is part of the liturgical cycle of Great Lent, a period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Pascha (Easter). Other important observances during Great Lent include the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, the Sunday of the Prodigal Son, and the Sunday of the Cross.

See Also

• Great Lent
• Iconoclasm
• Seventh Ecumenical Council
• Eastern Orthodox Church
• Byzantine Rite