Epigonation

Made of dark-green velvet, in the form of a rhombus-shaped square cloth. The field of the epigonation is embroidered around its perimeter with floral branches entwined with ribbons tied in a bow, and at the center with an embroidered equal-armed cross with lily-shaped ends (the embroidery worked in gold metal thread and sequins). The edges of the epigonation are trimmed with a fringe of golden thread; tassels of golden thread on a wooden core are sewn to three of the corners (one tassel is lost); at the top corner is an orange-red silk ribbon-sash for wearing the epigonation over the shoulder.

Note: the epigonation (palytsia) is part of the full liturgical vestments of a bishop, archimandrite, or protopresbyter, as well as of a priest awarded it as an honor.

Symbolically, the epigonation carries the same meaning as the spiritual sword — that is, the Word of God — with which a shepherd must always be "armed." Compared to the nabedrennik, however, the epigonation belongs to a higher rank, since it also symbolizes the end of the towel with which Jesus Christ wiped his disciples' feet.

In church tradition, the color green symbolizes the renewal of the soul and the eternal life granted by God, and represents the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, glorified in these days.

The green epigonation, like the full set of vestments, is worn on the Feast of the Holy Trinity (Pentecost), the Day of the Holy Spirit, the Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday), and on days commemorating venerable monastics and ascetics.