Bright Week in the Orthodox Church: How We Celebrate the Resurrection
What Is Bright Week?
Bright Week is the radiant, joy-filled week immediately following Pascha (Easter) in the Orthodox Church. It is a time when the faithful continue to proclaim and celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Every day of Bright Week is considered a Pascha — the Feast of Feasts — and is marked with special services, vibrant hymns, and the continued greeting: “Christ is risen! Indeed He is risen!”
The Services at the Skete During Bright Week
At Saint Panteleimon Skete, the liturgical life during Bright Week is marked by daily celebration and thanksgiving. Doors of the altar remain open throughout the week to symbolize the open tomb of Christ and the unbroken joy of His Resurrection.
We celebrate:
- Daily Matins and Vespers (modified Paschal format)
- Bright Thursday Divine Liturgy
- Processions with icons and candles (weather dependent)
Everyone is encouraged to attend services, even if it’s your first time. No fasting is observed this week — it is a time of feasting and joy.
“Christ is Risen, Trampling Down Death by Death…”
During Bright Week, we continue to chant the Paschal troparion:
“Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life!”
This hymn expresses the heart of the Christian faith: that through His death, Christ destroyed the power of death itself. Bright Week is our extended, joyful response to this truth — not just in song, but in how we live, pray, and celebrate.
How to Celebrate Bright Week as a Faithful Orthodox Christian
The Church encourages us to continue in joy throughout the week. Here are some ways to keep Bright Week holy:
- Attend at least one service during the week
- Share the Paschal greeting with family and friends, “Christ is Risen,” and “Indeed He is Risen!”
- Continue reading the Resurrection accounts in the Gospels
- Host a celebratory meal or share food with others
- Pray the Paschal Hours instead of your regular morning/evening prayers
Bright Week is also a time of rest — the Church suspends fasting and allows us to rejoice with a light heart and full table.
Join Us at Saint Panteleimon Skete
If you’re local or planning a visit, we warmly welcome you to join us for services during Bright Week. Whether you are Orthodox, inquiring, or simply curious, come and celebrate the Resurrection with us.
Christ is risen! Indeed He is risen!