December 3 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

In the liturgical calendar of the Eastern Orthodox Church, December 3rd corresponds to November 20th on the Julian Calendar (the "Old Calendar"), by which some Orthodox churches still regulate their liturgical life.

On this day, the Orthodox Church commemorates the following saints and events:

• Prophet Sophonias (Zephaniah).
• Venerable Sabbas the Sanctified. One of the most important figures in the development of monasticism in Palestine.
• Saint Theodulus the Reader, and Saint Agathopodes the Deacon, of Thessalonica (c. 303). Martyrs during the reign of Maximian.
• Saint Erasmus of Ochrid (303). Martyr.
• Saint John the Silent, Bishop of Colonia in Armenia (558).
• Saint Gregory of Decapolis (816).

In addition to the above, commemorations may be held for:

• The uncovering of the relics (1991) of Hieromartyr Hilarion (Troitsky), Archbishop of Verey.
• Repose of Elder Arsenius of Athos (1983).

The readings appointed for the Divine Liturgy on this day vary depending on the saint or event being commemorated and the day of the week. Generally, readings from the Old Testament (Prophets) and the New Testament (Epistles and Gospels) appropriate to the saint or liturgical theme are prescribed. The liturgical color for this day is usually gold or yellow, symbolizing divine grace and glory. The specific hymns (troparia, kontakia) and prayers recited will also differ based on the specific commemoration.