Unlike the Roman Catholic Church that removes any alleluia from their services until Pascha, the Orthodox seem to sing it even more (although practically speaking, we sing it a normal amount of times; it’s only because we have more services that we notice it more, especially with this distinctive melody).

The version we’re sharing here is heard at the Passia services, Holy Thursday matins (the 12 Passion Gospel readings) and less-known in the Ukrainian Church - the Bridegroom matins/orthros (more on that next week).

It is without any doubt beautiful and haunting, and so much so that well-known Canadian artist Loreena McKennitt even included an excerpt at the beginning of one of her recordings.

So as we approach the final weeks of Lent, we invite you to join us and explore the beautiful music of Holy Week.