POLYEILEON

POLYEILEON– (Gr. much mercy and much oil). The second part of Matins on Sunday eve glorifies Christ’s resurrection, or the particular Feast or Saint whose day it is. It is the most solemn, joyful and bright part of the service. We praise God’s mercies and in the old days all the oil lamps were lit in sign of joy. The choir sings Psalm 135: “Praise ye the Lord, all ye servants of the Lord. Alleluia.” . . . During the singing the priest censes the Sanctuary and the Iconostas. If there is a Feast Day the priest sings a short “exaltation” in honor of the Feast or Saint. The choir repeats it.