Liturgical Texts
Here you will find the links to texts for various liturgical services.
New Sunday or Anti-Pascha
Sunday of Thomas the Apostle, Called “The Twin”
SYNAXARION
On April 27 in the Holy Orthodox Church, we commemorate Hieromartyr Simeon, Bishop of Jerusalem and the kinsman of the Lord; and John the Confessor, Abbot of the Monastery of the Chaste.
On this day, the second Sunday of Pascha, we inaugurate the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, and the occasion whereon the Holy Apostle Thomas touched the Savior’s side.
Verses
If the seals of the Virgin’s womb and of the grave did not hinder Thee,
How could the seals of the doors hinder Thy might, O Savior?
This day is called New Sunday, Thomas Sunday or Anti-Pascha. The last term means “in place of Pascha” because Thomas did not immediately hear of Christ’s Resurrection and disbelieved it. Starting with this day, the Church dedicates Sunday to the celebration of the Resurrection. As the Disciples were gathered on Pascha, Jesus entered and greeted them in His usual way, saying, “Peace be unto you.” Then He showed them His hands, feet and side. Jesus ate with His Disciples and reassured them of His Resurrection. However, Thomas was not with them at that time, and insisted upon seeing the Savior’s wounds—the print of the nails in His hands and feet, and the spear in His side—before he would believe that Jesus was risen. Eight days later, Christ appeared again to the Disciples, this time with Thomas present. The Master told Thomas to see and feel His wounds. Then Thomas immediately cried out, “My Lord and my God!” But Jesus tells His Disciples, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” This event also clearly illustrates the human and divine Natures of Christ. By the intercessions of Thine Apostle Thomas, O Christ our God, have mercy on us. Amen.
Please visit the Antiochian Archdiocese Website for Up-To-Date Texts of Services, and Choose the Specific Date on the Calendar.
