Book of Needs of the Holy Orthodox Church : with an appendix containing offices for the laying on of hands

This translation brings the ancient Slavonic service book known as the Trébnik into clear English, offering listeners a window onto the liturgical life of the Holy Orthodox Church. Organized as a practical guide, it gathers the prayers, blessings and rites that have traditionally marked a believer’s journey from baptism to the final commendation of the soul. Though the text omits extended gospel readings and some specialised penitential formulas, it retains the core prayers that shape daily worship and the great feasts.

An added appendix presents the bishop’s “laying on of hands” ceremony, a rite that confers holy orders and underscores the continuity of apostolic ministry. Throughout, concise notes explain obscure terms—such as aër, antidoron and canon—making the material approachable for both devoted faithful and curious scholars. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation of the rhythm and reverence that have sustained Orthodox worship for centuries.