www.byzcath.org Forums Mysteries: The Life of Worship Vespers, Matins & the Divine Liturgy Plaschanitsa Question

Dear Stuart the Stalwart,

Personally, I don't go anywhere. I took my mother who physically had a great problem walking on her knees toward the Plashchanitsya as did others.

And was wondering if there was any kind of rule in this regard. Thank you for answering my question.

Alex

Mercy in all things. Most people who are incapable of approaching all the way on their knees, or who are incapable of kneeling at all (as I am at present, due to bursitis in my left knee), can walk up to the Tomb and only approach the last couple of steps on their knees; those who cannot kneel, can make a profound bow. The Lord does not demand more than we can deliver.

Dear Royal Stuart,

Thank you for your, as always, erudite and thoughtful comments!

Alex

I believe the Greek practice is to place the Plascanica back on the Holy Altar after the procession with it during the Holy Saturday Matins.I would presume that the Melkites do the same.It seems odd to those of us following the Ukrainian or Russian practices where so much of the Holy Saturday Liturgy revolves around the Plascanica.

The Plaschantja/Epitaphion is removed from the Tomb during Paschal Vespers, which is often celebrated in conjunction with the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, in a service called "Protianastasis". It is taken up by the celebrant and removed to the Holy Table during the singing of "Arise, O God, and Judge the Earth", during which time vestments are also changed from dark to bright.