Holy Friday Morning Hours

At the Holy Friday Royal Hours service in the Greek Orthodox Church, the Solea—the raised area in front of the iconostasis—is marked by a somber and reverent atmosphere. At the center stands the Cross of Christ, a large wooden cross with an icon of the crucified Christ affixed to it, placed prominently for veneration. The church is dimly lit, reflecting the sorrow of the day, and clergy and faithful alike are dressed in dark, often deep purple, vestments and clothing. There are no processions or elaborate movements—just stillness, scripture, and silence, drawing attention to the Cross and the mystery of Christ’s Passion.