Priestly Stole - Epitrachelion – Annunciation Design

A beautifully embroidered epitrachelion (priestly stole) crafted from rich blue velvet fabric. This liturgical vestment features intricate gold-embroidered crosses, floral motifs, and ecclesiastical designs. At its center, it depicts the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, with Archangel Gabriel and the Theotokos in detailed, hand-embroidered iconographic style. Finished with gold fringe at the hem and lined with satin at the collar for comfort, this stole is both reverent and elegant.

 Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery.

• Material: Blue velvet with gold embroidery

• Design: Annunciation with traditional Byzantine motifs

• Use: Worn by Orthodox and Eastern Catholic priests during the Divine Liturgy and sacraments

• Details: Fully embroidered, gold-lined collar, and decorative fringe

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In the Greek Orthodox Church, the Epitrachelion (Greek: Ἐπιτραχήλιον) is a sacred vestment worn by priests and bishops during all liturgical services. It is one of the most essential garments in Orthodox clerical attire.

The Epitrachelion is the Orthodox equivalent of the Western Christian stole. The name comes from the Greek words "ἐπί" (epi, meaning "on") and "τραχήλος" (trachēlos, meaning "neck") — literally, "on the neck."

It is a long, narrow band of cloth, folded lengthwise and worn around the neck so that both ends hang straight down in front. The two sides are usually stitched together at the neck and secured by buttons or clasps further down, symbolizing unity and order. Traditionally, it features seven embroidered crosses — one at the neck and six down the front — representing the seven sacraments and the fullness of grace bestowed upon the priest. It is often made of brocade, velvet, or silk, and richly decorated with crosses, iconography, or gold/silver embroidery.

The Epitrachelion is essential for liturgy: A priest cannot serve any sacrament (like the Divine Liturgy, baptism, confession, or blessing) without wearing the epitrachelion. It symbolizes the grace of the Holy Spirit that flows through the priest to the people. It represents the yoke of Christ and the responsibility of pastoral care and service.

Priests and bishops wear the epitrachelion. Bishops wear a more elaborate version, sometimes integrated into a longer vestment set. Deacons do not wear the epitrachelion; they wear the orarion instead. It is always worn during Divine Liturgy, blessings, confession, sacraments, funerals, house blessings, and other services.