St. Simeon of Thessaloniki was the last archbishop of Thessalonica before its capture by the Turks. Just six months after the death of the saint, Thessalonica fell and the cathedral church of Hagia Sophia was turned into a mosque. However, while Saint Simeon was alive, the city was faithful to its emperor and Orthodoxy.
Saint Simeon is rightfully considered the greatest Byzantine liturgist. His most famous creation, “Conversation on the Holy Rites and Sacraments of the Church,” is well known to the Orthodox reader. In it, Saint Simeon explains the symbolism and meaning of the sacred rites performed in the temple, interpreting the service from a mystical, symbolic, as well as historical point of view.
.The book is intended for a wide range of readers. It will be of interest to everyone who loves worship and is interested in its history.