2 Ways to Fold Your Sticharion

Today, we wanted to share some helpful tips on how to fold a sticharion, an essential garment for deacons, readers, and acolytes. Whether you are an experienced protodeacon or a recently tonsured reader, we believe these techniques will be valuable to you.

Link to watch this video in high quality (or share it with your fellow clergy)

This email contains two different methods of folding a sticharion. Both methods have in common the fact that the sticharion is folded by weight. This significantly simplifies life at the vestry/altar, as there is no need to search for a horizontal surface to fold it on.

The first GIF features Protodeacon Oleg, who demonstrates a simpler approach.

The second GIF, presented by brother Maxim, one of our dedicated acolytes, showcases an alternative method. He was taught this method by the senior acolytes when he first started assisting in the altar. The sticharion, arranged in such a way, can be conveniently carried across the altar to receive the priest's blessing before the start of the service.

Link to watch this video in high quality (or share it with your fellow clergy)

Both methods have their advantages, as they are designed to be compact and portable, eliminating the need for a flat surface to fold the sticharion.

Donning the sticharion

During the filming of the main video, brother Maxim shared with us his technique for donning the sticharion. This particular method is efficient and particularly helpful for beginners (whom we warmly embrace within our mailing list

Indeed, the ability to swiftly and gracefully don the sticharion is a highly valuable skill. There are some videos on the Internet showcasing awkward moments when even bishops encounter difficulties while attempting to pull their sticharion over their heads at the Divine Liturgy.