TLDR;
This video provides a detailed walkthrough of the Orthodox Christian preparation of the Eucharist, known as the Proskomedia. The priest explains each step, from washing hands and selecting the bread to commemorating saints and the living and deceased members of the church. The process involves specific prayers, cutting the bread in symbolic ways, and arranging the elements on the diskos (paten) and chalice. The video also covers the covering of the gifts with veils and the use of incense, all rich in symbolism and historical context.
- Washing hands and reading Psalm 25.
- Preparing the bread (prosphora) with specific cuts and prayers.
- Commemorating the Virgin Mary, saints, and members of the church.
- Covering the gifts with veils and incense.
Introduction to the Proskomedia [0:00]
The priest begins by stating that he will demonstrate the order of the Proskomedia, emphasizing that it is deeply rooted in scripture. He points out the seal on the bread, which reads "IC XC NIKA" (Jesus Christ Conquers), a symbol Constantine used on his shields after winning a battle. The priest explains that he will explain the significance of each step as he prepares the bread and wine for the Eucharist, and welcomes brief questions.
Initial Prayers and Preparation [1:36]
The priest starts with a prayer from Psalm 25, washing his hands as a symbol of innocence before approaching the altar. He then stands before the table and recites prayers, asking for God's mercy. He mentions that while some Russian churches use five smaller loaves, he prefers the tradition of using one larger loaf.
Cutting the Bread and Preparing the Lamb [3:29]
The priest raises the loaf, remembering Jesus Christ and making the sign of the cross over it. Each cut is accompanied by a verse from Matthew. He cuts around the seal in the center, separating the pieces while reciting specific verses. The central piece, known as the Lamb, is designated for the Eucharist. He then pierces the Lamb with a spear, symbolizing the piercing of Jesus' side by a Roman soldier, and adds water and wine to the chalice, representing the blood and water that flowed from Jesus' side.
Commemorating the Virgin Mary and the Saints [8:00]
The priest cuts out a triangle from the bread to commemorate the Virgin Mary, placing it on the right side of Christ on the diskos. Next, he prepares nine small triangles, each representing different groups of saints: angels, prophets, apostles, bishops, martyrs, venerable fathers, unmercenary healers, and the grandparents of the Lord. He touches each triangle while reciting the names of the saints, placing them on the diskos.
Commemorating the Living and the Departed [12:16]
The priest prepares to commemorate the living members of the church, including the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Metropolitan Gregory, cutting small pieces of bread for each. He also commemorates himself as the priest. He then proceeds to commemorate the living and deceased members of the church, taking small pieces of bread and placing them on the diskos. He mentions that the living are commemorated in one direction, while the departed are commemorated in the form of a cross.
Final Preparations and Covering the Gifts [21:00]
The priest commemorates himself, asking for forgiveness and mercy. He explains that all the prepared elements are placed on the diskos, and only the Lamb is used for the Eucharist. After communion, he scrapes the remaining particles into the chalice and consumes it. He then covers the gifts with a star-shaped cover, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem, and veils, reciting prayers for each covering.
Incensing and Final Blessing [27:15]
The priest incenses the gifts and recites a final prayer, asking God to bless the offerings and remember those who brought them. He concludes with a blessing and expresses hope that the demonstration was informative, noting that he will demonstrate the full liturgy in a similar manner in the future.