What are the main classes of feasts in our Church?
The highest category of feasts are the Solemn Feasts of our Lord Jesus Christ, at which, in addition to the festal tropars and readings, even the antiphons are changed. Sundays are also Solemn Feasts of the Lord. Next are Solemn Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary, at which the “It is truly fitting” is substituted with the irmos hymn. The next class is Solemn Feasts of the Saints, such as the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul or the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. The lowest class is Simple Feasts or Polyelei, often designated with a cross. There are also Commemorations, but they do not affect the readings at the Divine Liturgy.
