Ectenia

The ectenia ( Greek ἐκτένεια ekténeia zeal , fervor ) or the diaconal prayer is a litany-like intercessory prayer in the Christian liturgy , in which a deacon intercedes from the lectern , then with the words "Let us call on the Lord" Congregation turns, which then with a common call to prayer, z. B. "Kyrie eleison", "Lord, have mercy" or "God, hear us", answers, confirming and strengthening the prayer.

This form of prayer is mainly practiced in the Divine Liturgy and the Liturgy of the Hours of the Orthodox Churches , but it has now also established itself in Catholic and Protestant services because it enables the community to be more closely involved and solidarity with the requests made.

In many evangelical church services, the ectenia is practiced by the liturgist facing the congregation from the altar.

The opposite of ectenia is prosthesis .