Psalter Readings (Kathismas) at Matins (Orthros)

This table shows the kathismas appointed to be read at matins (orthros) throughout the year. There are no psalter readings at matins in Bright Week, except that the polyeleos (Psalms 134-135) is sung if there is a feast (e.g. a saint) of polyeleos rank. When sung, the polyeleos replaces the 3rd kathisma if 3 kathismas are appointed to be read (see table below). When only 2 kathismas are appointed, the polyeleos is sung as the 3rd kathisma. But during Great Lent, when 3 kathismas are prescribed, the polyeleos follows the 3rd kathisma rather than replacing it. In parish practice, the polyeleyos is sometimes sung at every Sunday matins year-round. In smaller monasteries and in parish churches, the prescribed Psalter readings are often abbreviated.