LITIYA

LITIYA – (Lity, litia) A word implying a fervent, prolonged prayer. It is a service of blessing of the breads joined to the Vespers on the eve of major feasts. Five breads, oil and wine are blessed. In the prayer of blessing we ask our Lord that as He blessed the five loaves and fed the five thousand, to bless the loaves, wheat, wine and oil, and to multiply them in all the world; and to sanctify all the faithful who partake of them. The bread is cut and distributed to the faithful at the end of the service.