Praxis (Byzantine Rite)

In the Byzantine Rite of the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, the Praxis (Greek: Πράξις, "Acts") refers to a lectionary that contains the readings from the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles of the New Testament. Unlike a complete New Testament, the Praxis arranges the biblical texts according to the liturgical year, presenting the Epistle and Acts readings appointed for each particular day and feast.

Specifically, a Praxis typically includes:

• Readings from the Acts of the Apostles: Selected passages are read throughout the year, often focusing on the early Church's development and the missionary journeys of the apostles.
• Readings from the Pauline Epistles: These letters of St. Paul, addressed to various churches and individuals, are read extensively.
• Readings from the Catholic (General) Epistles: Epistles attributed to James, Peter, John, and Jude are also included.
• Prokeimena and Alleluiaria: These verses, often Psalms, precede and follow the Epistle and Acts readings, connecting them to the overall theme of the service. Instructions for chanting or reciting these are often included.
• Rubrics: The Praxis may also contain rubrics (instructions) regarding the proper reading and performance of these liturgical elements.

The Praxis is an essential liturgical book for readers (or anagnostes) and deacons in the Byzantine Rite. It ensures the correct Scriptural readings are proclaimed during services, following the prescribed liturgical calendar and providing a structured framework for encountering the apostolic teachings within the context of worship. The readings are often arranged to complement the Gospel reading of the day.