The daily liturgical circle of the Orthodox Church includes the succession of several divine services. One of the most solemn services is the all-night vigil.
All-night vigil is a special solemn divine service of the Orthodox Church, which takes place on the eve of Sundays and holidays. In the first centuries of Christianity, the all-night vigil began in the evening and lasted long enough (until the morning). At present, this worship service has been significantly reduced. Now this service lasts on average no more than two and a half hours, starting in the evening on the eve of holidays and Sundays.
An all-night vigil most often consists of Vespers, Matins and the first hour. A distinctive feature of the succession of Vespers and Matins at the All-Night Vigil is that many works are performed by the church choir. This bestows upon a particular splendor and beauty of worship.
Sometimes the all-night vigil begins with Great Compline, which turns into Vespers. This is followed by matins and the first hour. This feature of the all-night vigil service is observed only a few times a year - on the eve of the feasts of the Nativity of Christ and the Epiphany of the Lord.
Sometimes, after the All-night Vigil service, the sacrament of confession is performed, in which people bring repentance for their sins. It is worth mentioning that in small towns the sacrament of confession is performed only after this service, since the all-night vigil itself is sent on the eve of the divine liturgy, at which the faithful partake of the holy mysteries of Christ.
