Salutations to the Theotokos each Friday of Great Lent at 5:15 pm (3/22, 3/29, 4/5, 4/12, 4/19)
The Service of the Salutations is known as one of the hymnological masterpieces of the Church. During the first four Salutation services, the Akathist Hymn is sung in parts. The Akathist Hymn is a profound, devotional poem which sings the praises of the Holy Mother and Ever-Virgin Mary. This hymn comprises twenty four stanzas, divided into four parts. One part is sung on each Friday of Great Lent and on the fifth Friday, the entire set is sung in commemoration of a miracle performed by the Virgin in Constantinople.