The Polyeleos.

The second part of the service, consisting of glorifications of the event or person commemorated on the day, is performed with especial solemnity on the vigils of feast-days. After the kathismata have been read, with the Royal Gates open, Psalms 134 and 135, which begin, “Bless ye the name of the Lord,” are sung, with the response “Alleluia!” after each verse. This singing is called Polyeleos, i.e.,“of many mercies,” also “oil-abounding” because the words “His mercy endureth forever” are frequently repeated in it, and while it is being sung all the lights are lit. At the same time, in token of reverence and festivity, censing goes on in the whole church.