Sacraments & Services
Orthodox Sacraments
As the Rev. Fr. Thomas Fitzgerald explains, there are special experiences in our life as Orthodox Christians when the perception of God’s presence and actions are heightened and celebrated. We call these events the Church Sacraments. Traditionally, the Sacraments have been known as Holy Mysteries in the Orthodox Church. This description emphasizes that in these special events of the Church, God discloses Himself through the prayers and actions of His people.
The Sacraments of the Orthodox Church are composed of prayers, hymns, scripture lessons, gestures and processions. Many parts of the services date back to the time of the Apostles.
In the Orthodox Church, we recognize seven major Sacraments. In addition to these major Sacraments, there are many other Blessings and Special Services which reflect the Church’s presence throughout the lives of her people, including the Funeral Service, Memorial Service, and Great Blessing of the Water.
Seven Major Orthodox Sacraments
Lenten Weekday Schedule 2026
Wednesdays
- 4:00 p.m. – Holy Confession (No Appointments Taken)
- 5:00 p.m. – Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
- 6:45 p.m. – Lenten Dinner and Youth Activities
- 7:00 p.m. – Choir Rehearsal
Fridays
- 4:00 p.m. – Holy Confession (No Appointments Taken)
- 6:00 p.m. – Salutations to the Theotokos
Sundays at 5:00 p.m. MEOCCA-Sponsored Pan-Orthodox Lenten Vespers.
- March 1 – Triumph of Orthodoxy, St. Mary’s OCA Cathedral in Minneapolis.
- March 8 – St. Gregory Palamas, St. Marys Greek Orthodox Church in Minneapolis.
- March 15 – Veneration of the Cross, St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in West St. Paul.
- March 22 – St. John of the Ladder, St. Mary’s Romanian Orthodox Church in St. Paul.
- March 29 – St. Mary of Egypt, Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in St. Paul.
- April 5 – Bridegroom Matins, St. Herman Orthodox Church in Minneapolis.