Orthodox Service Book
An Orthodox service book, often referred to as a liturgical book or a liturgical service book, is a collection of texts and instructions used by Orthodox Christian clergy and congregations during worship services. These books contain prayers, hymns, Scripture readings, and ritual instructions for various services and occasions throughout the liturgical year.
The Orthodox Church commemorates numerous saints and feast days throughout the year, each with its own set of prayers and hymns. The service book provides the necessary texts for these commemorations.
Orthodox service books are typically written in the language of the particular Orthodox tradition they serve (e.g., Greek, Russian, Romanian, Serbian) and may vary slightly in content and arrangement based on regional customs and traditions. These books serve as a guide for clergy and laity alike, facilitating the orderly and reverent celebration of the Church’s liturgical life.