Byzantine Catholic Great and Holy Wednesday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy (2025, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Virginia Beach, Virginia) - Catholic Stock Photo

Unlike a regular Divine Liturgy, there is no consecration of the bread and wine. Instead, the faithful receive Communion from the "Pre-Sanctified" Gifts (Body and Blood of Christ) consecrated at a previous Divine Liturgy. This allows for frequent Communion during the penitential season of Lent and Holy Week while maintaining the somber character of these days. The service includes specific scripture readings related to the events of Holy Wednesday, such as the anointing at Bethany and Judas' betrayal.