The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles fifty days after Pascha, marking the full revelation of the Holy Trinity and the beginning of the Church's mission in the world. During Vespers, special kneeling prayers are offered and the church is adorned with greenery. This feast celebrates the completion of Christ's saving work and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all believers. From this day forward, the Sundays of the year are numbered from Pentecost, signifying the continual life and growth of the Church in the grace of the Spirit.

The soldier-saint of Thessalonica, martyred under Galerius around 306 AD. Celebrated on October 26th, Demetrius is patron of Thessalonica and soldiers. Myrrh flows from his relics, earning him the title 'Myrrh-Streamer.' He represents faithfulness unto death and divine protection of Christian communities.

The central worship service of the Orthodox Church, celebrating the Eucharist (Holy Communion). Usually celebrated on Sundays and feast days, the Divine Liturgy consists of the Liturgy of the Word (scripture readings) and Liturgy of the Faithful (Eucharistic prayer and communion). The most common forms are the Liturgies of St. John Chrysostom and St. Basil the Great.

The "Feast of Feasts" celebrating Christ's Resurrection from the dead. The most important celebration in the Orthodox Church, Pascha determines the date of all moveable feasts. The service begins with the joyful midnight proclamation "Christ is Risen!" and continues with the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.

The evening prayer service of the Orthodox Church, traditionally celebrated at sunset. Vespers includes psalms, hymns, scripture readings, and incense. On Saturday evenings, Great Vespers is often combined with the Sunday Divine Liturgy. The service marks the end of the liturgical day and prepares the faithful for rest and reflection.

The commemoration of the Archangel Michael and all the bodiless powers (angels) on November 8th. This feast celebrates the angelic hierarchy and Michael's role as leader of God's army against evil. Orthodox tradition honors angels as God's messengers and guardians, with Michael being especially venerated as protector of the Church and individual Christians.

The sacrament of initiation into the Orthodox Church, through which a person is united with Christ in His death and resurrection. The baptismal candidate is immersed three times in water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, dying to sin and rising to new life in Christ. Baptism cleanses from original sin, grants adoption as God's child, and makes the person a member of the Body of Christ. In Orthodox practice, baptism is immediately followed by chrismation and first communion.

The celebration of Christ's birth in Bethlehem. The feast is preceded by a 40-day Nativity Fast and celebrated with the Divine Liturgy, special hymns like the Troparion of the Nativity, and the blessing of homes.

The presentation of the three-year-old Virgin Mary in the Temple by her parents, Saints Joachim and Anna. Celebrated on November 21st, this feast honors Mary's dedication to God and her preparation for her role as Theotokos. According to tradition, Mary was raised in the Temple until her betrothal to Joseph.

The first-called apostle and brother of Peter, who brought Peter to Christ. Celebrated on November 30th, Andrew is patron of Russia, Scotland, and Greece. According to tradition, he preached throughout Asia Minor and was crucified on an X-shaped cross, which bears his name. He represents the call to bring others to Christ.

The beloved 4th-century Archbishop of Myra, known for his generosity, miracles, and defense of Orthodox faith at the First Ecumenical Council. Celebrated on December 6th, St. Nicholas is patron of sailors, children, and the falsely accused. His popularity spans all Orthodox jurisdictions and he's remembered for secretly providing dowries for poor families.