The 18th-century monk who translated the Philokalia and renewed Orthodox spiritual literature. Celebrated on November 15th, Paisius (Velichkovsky) collected and translated patristic texts on prayer and spirituality from Greek into Slavonic. His work made the treasures of Orthodox mystical theology available to Slavic peoples and influenced the Russian spiritual revival.

The evening prayer service of the Orthodox Church, traditionally celebrated at sunset. Vespers includes psalms, hymns, scripture readings, and incense. On Saturday evenings, Great Vespers is often combined with the Sunday Divine Liturgy. The service marks the end of the liturgical day and prepares the faithful for rest and reflection.