epiklesis

/ɛpɪˈklɛsɪs/

Definitions

1. noun

A form of prayer in Eastern Orthodox liturgy, in which the congregation invokes the Holy Spirit to consecrate the bread and wine, or a specific invocation of a saint’s name in a ritual or prayer, especially in the context of Hellenic or Eastern Orthodox traditions.

“During the Eucharist, the priest recites the epiklesis to invoke the Holy Spirit’s presence.”

Synonyms

  • invocation
  • petition

Antonyms

  • dismissal
  • exclusion