Zone1 Serbian Orthodox mystery of jeleosvecenje

[Mortimer]

I just attended jeleosvecenje
Im very tired now it was over two hours standing and praying, near the end our priests told us who have a serious illness to kneel infront of the altar on the floor i kneeled down could not kneel and could not get up i hardly got up later now my knees and my legs hurt
But its for health strengthening and cleaning of sins so im happy i was there

Serbian Orthodox Mystery of Jeleosvećenje (Holy Unction)
Jeleosvećenje (Serbian: Јелеосвећење) is one of the seven Holy Mysteries (sacraments) in the Serbian Orthodox Church. In English, it is usually called Holy Unction or the Anointing with Oil.
What does it mean?
The word comes from:
“Jelej” (ἔλαιον) = oil
“Osvećenje” = sanctification / blessing
So it literally means:
“The blessing (sanctification) of oil.”
Purpose of Jeleosvećenje
This mystery is performed for:
Healing of physical illness
Healing of spiritual wounds (sins)
Strengthening the soul and body
Forgiveness of forgotten or unconfessed sins
It is based on the Bible:
“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call the elders (priests)... and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”
— (James 5:14)
How the ritual is performed
The service is very symbolic and usually includes:
1. Seven candles
Represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit
Also connected to the seven prayers and readings
2. Scripture readings
7 Epistles + 7 Gospels
Focus on healing, repentance, and mercy
3. Multiple priests (ideally 7)
If possible, seven priests perform the service
But it can also be done by fewer
4. Blessed oil (jeleј)
Oil is consecrated through prayer
5. Anointing
The faithful are anointed on:
Forehead
Hands
Sometimes other parts (depending on tradition)
When is it done?
Often during Great Lent (Veliki post)
In times of serious illness
Also performed collectively in churches for all believers
Important:
It is NOT only for the dying (like in some Western traditions).
Orthodoxy sees it as a healing and strengthening mystery for the living.
Spiritual meaning
Jeleosvećenje is not just about physical healing.
It reflects the Orthodox belief that:
Body and soul are connected
Illness can be spiritual, emotional, or physical
God heals through:
Grace
Prayer
Community (Church)
In simple terms
Jeleosvećenje =
A sacred church ritual where blessed oil is used with prayer to heal both body and soul and to bring forgiveness and strength.

 

[luiza]

I just attended jeleosvecenje
Im very tired now it was over two hours standing and praying, near the end our priests told us who have a serious illness to kneel infront of the altar on the floor i kneeled down could not kneel and could not get up i hardly got up later now my knees and my legs hurt

That's what happens to morbidly obese people who inject themselves with poison .
Might be smart to make a will --- donate your uniforms to the local Nazis .