An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church

Panagia or panaghia or panhagia

A Greek term meaning “all holy one.” It is a title of the Virgin Mary in the eastern church. The term also refers to a small folding case with an image of the Virgin Mary that is worn by prelates in the eastern church. This case is worn on the breast suspended by a chain. The term also refers to bread which is solemnly blessed by Greek monks in honor of the Virgin Mary and the Trinity. It is eaten during morning meal prayers.

Glossary definitions provided courtesy of Church Publishing Incorporated, New York, NY,(All Rights reserved) from “An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church, A User Friendly Reference for Episcopalians,” Don S. Armentrout and Robert Boak Slocum, editors.