According to the Julian calendar, Orthodox Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ the Monday after Easter through relaxation, reflection, and liturgy services. The exact date varies but takes place between April and May. Some call Easter Monday New Monday, Bright Monday, or Renewal Monday. It is the second day of Bright Week, which continues celebrations of Christ’s resurrection. If a Saint’s feast day falls on holy week, the feast is moved to Easter Monday.
Religious services on Easter Monday usually encompass holy water and gospel readings, which are often done in several languages. Though the holiday is relaxed, it is upbeat, shedding the mourning themes characteristic of Easter celebrations before Easter Sunday, which ends the mourning period.
Many Orthodox Easter Monday Services adhere to the Divine Liturgy, which is a tradition of liturgy, that utilizes symbolism and ritual. The basic outline of a Divine Liturgy includes the entry of the priests, called the Liturgy of Preparation, who then pray. The Liturgy of Catechumens, the first half of the service, includes Gospel readings, hymns, and religious commentary. The third main aspect, the Liturgy of the Faithful, used to only be open to positive members of the church, although some modern churches still process this. The Liturgy of the Faithful includes aspects such as hymns, recitation of the Nicene Creed, the Holy Communion, and the dismissal.
Observers often indulge themselves, taking advantage of the end of fasting. They may eat leftovers, lamb, other meats, cheeses, bread, and other indulgences.
