Eastern Orthodox Terminology

Cantor

In the Eastern Orthodox faith, one who assists the priest.

Deacon

A subordinate officer in a Christian church.

Divine Liturgy

Liturgical celebration of the Eucharist in Eastern Orthodox churches.

Icon

In the Eastern Orthodox faith, a holy picture, usually mosaic or painted on wood.

Iconostasis, iconostas, or iconostation

The partition that extends across the front of an Eastern Orthodox Church separating the sanctuary from the solea.

Last kiss

Physical contact with the deceased and the Icon during the final pass by the casket.

Parastas or Parastasis

The watch or all-night vigil over the deceased in the Eastern Orthodox community.

Panachida or panikhida

A rubric for the Eastern Orthodox funeral service.

Priest

A title conferred to clergy upon ordination in various religions.

Royal Doors

Doors in the center of the Iconostasis leading directly to the altar; only ordained clergy go through these doors; never cross on the solea in front of these doors.

Solea

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the open area (sometimes raised) before the altar.

Trisagion

In the Eastern Orthodox faith, three short services or blessings that are part of the funeral rite.

Censer

Incense burner.

Holy Saturday

Day when Jesus was laid in his tomb.