The Divine Liturgy
In the tradition of the Christian churches that follow the Byzantine rite, the Eucharist is usually celebrated according to three distinct forms:
- Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom
- Liturgy of St. Basil
- Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
Of these three, it is the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom that is used on virtually all Sundays and weekdays.
The Liturgy of St. Basil, almost identical to the latter except for its longer Eucharistic Prayer (or anaphora), is celebrated up to ten times a year (principally on the Sundays of Lent and on the feast of St Basil himself).
The Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts is unique in that there is no consecration in this liturgy. However, the Eucharist is given to the faithful from elements consecrated on the previous Sunday. This Liturgy is only used on Wednesdays and Fridays of Lent and on the first three days of Holy Week.
