Acolytes

	Documents

	Malankara Orthodox Syrian Parishes

	News Organization

	Oriental Orthodox

	Audio

	Video

	External Sites

Address

St. Mary's Malankara Orthodox Syrian Cathedral
1424 Orthodox Street
Philadelphia, PA 19124

Vicar:
Very Rev. Fr. C. J. Johnson Chor Episcopos

Asst. Vicar:
Rev. Fr. Aju Philip Mathews

Passion Week Times

Every Saturday During Great Lent
Evening Prayer: 6:00 PM

Mar 16, 2013 - Saturday
Lenten Retreat: 10:00 AM
Retreat Leader: Rev. Fr. Laby George Panackamattom
Confession: 2:00 PM
Evening Prayer: 6:00 PM

Mar 24, 2013 - Palm Sunday
Morning Prayer: 9:00 AM
Holy Qurbana,
Hosanna Services: 9:30 AM

Mar 24, 2013 - Annunciation to St. Mary
Evening Prayer: 5:30 PM
Holy Qurbana: 6:00 PM

Mar 25, 2013 - Holy Monday
Evening Prayer: 6:00 PM

Mar 26, 2013 - Holy Tuesday
Evening Prayer: 6:00 PM

Mar 27, 2013 - Holy Wednesday
Evening Prayer: 6:00 PM
Pesaha Services: 6:30 PM

Mar 29, 2013 - Good Friday:
Good Friday Services: 9:00 AM

Mar 30, 2013 - Holy Saturday
Morning Prayer: 9:00 AM
Holy Qurbana: 9:30 AM
Evening Prayer: 6:30 PM

Mar 31, 2013 - Easter Sunday
Morning Prayer: 9:00 AM
Holy Qurbana,
Easter Services: 9:30 AM

Service Times

Sunday Worship Hours:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Sunday School Hours:
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Marthamariam Samajam Hours:
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Search

The Greek word, "akolouthos" means attendant or follower. This is where the title Acolyte comes from. An Acolyte is an attendant of follower of bishops or priests. The Greek word,"akolytos" is also linked to this title. This Greek word means free (from sin) to enter the Holy of the Holies, which is the Holy Altar. This means that the Acolyte must be free from sin and be an example to the rest of the parishioners when they choose to help a priest or bishop during various services. They represent angels and that assist the priest who symbolizes Christ. Angels of course are always ready to assist and they have excellent behavior. These characteristics are also what is expected of an Acolyte, not just in the altar but also in their day to day lives. To have the title of Acolyte is a great honor because you have the right to serve in the Holy Altar, which is the most Holy Place of the Church.