How the Church Commemorates Victims of Political Repressionstranslated

On October 30 in Russia, the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repressions is observed. On this day, the Russian Orthodox Church commemorates all Orthodox Christians who were unjustly killed by atheists or who suffered imprisonment and torture without cause. We will tell you about the special services held on this day.

Olga Bogdanova

Editor of the "Questions for the Priest" section

Pannikhida for Victims of Repression

Pannikhida for Victims of Repression is a memorial service lasting approximately 30 minutes. It is usually held immediately after the Divine Liturgy. However, it is better to check the exact time of its celebration in the schedule of a specific church.

The special feature of the pannikhida on this day is the addition to the text of the post-communion prayer:

"Still we pray for the repose of the souls of thy servants, who were unjustly killed during times of turmoil, who endured suffering and torture, who suffered a bitter death in exile and imprisonment, whose names Thou dost weigh, O Lord."

The special text is also provided for the reading of "Memory Eternal":

"Grant, O Lord, eternal rest to thy servants who were unjustly killed during times of turmoil, who endured suffering and torture, who suffered a bitter death in exile and imprisonment, whose names Thou dost weigh, O Lord, …"