August 2 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

In the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, August 2 commemorates several significant feasts and saints. This date falls within the Dormition Fast, a period of strict fasting in preparation for the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos (Assumption of Mary) on August 15.

The primary feast celebrated on August 2 is the Translation of the Relics of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen. This feast commemorates the transfer of the relics of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, to Jerusalem. The event is a major commemoration and is marked with special hymns and readings during the services.

Other possible commemorations that may occur on August 2, depending on the specific calendar being followed (Julian or Revised Julian), include the commemoration of various other saints and martyrs. The liturgical books (Menaion, Triodion, and Pentecostarion, depending on the liturgical season) provide the specific propers (hymns, readings, and prayers) for each commemoration. Local calendars may also include commemorations of locally venerated saints. The hymns for St. Stephen dominate, but other saints are also mentioned in the services.

The services celebrated on August 2 will typically include Vespers (evening service), Matins (morning service), and the Divine Liturgy. The content of these services will reflect the specific feasts and saints being commemorated on that day.