(To be done at all services following the first service of the bishop’s visit)

Prior to the bishop’s arrival at the church, eagle rugs are placed on the solea (head pointed toward the west) and at the hierarchical throne (head pointed toward the north). If the bishop will be serving, eagle rugs are also placed on the amvon (head pointed toward the west), in front of the Holy Table (head toward pointed the east) and at the high place (head pointed toward the west).

The first priest and the first deacon shall vest according to the type of service. If it is a Eucharistic service, they shall both be fully vested. If it is a non-Eucharistic service, the priest shall vest in his exorasson with his epitrachelion folded in his arms. The deacon shall be in his exorasson, with his sticharion and orarion folded in his arms. All other clergy shall wear the exorasson only. The clergy stand on the solea, near the icon of Christ, in order of seniority from senior to junior.

The people sing the following as the bishop enters in the church. When the bishop reaches the solea, the priest offers him the hand-cross, himself kissing the bishop’s right hand, and the bishop blesses the people, passes the hand-cross to the bishop’s assistant, and ascends the hierarchical throne:

People: Eis polla eti, Despota.