1 a study of the eucharistic liturgy of the malankara orthodox church

1www.orthodoxtv.in

A Study of the Eucharistic A Study of the Eucharistic LiturgyLiturgy

ofofThe Malankara Orthodox The Malankara Orthodox

ChurchChurch

2www.orthodoxtv.in

The Eucharistic Liturgy of the Orthodox Syrian Church is perhaps the richest in all of Christendom with more than eighty existing anaphoras in testimonyThe usual Syriac word for the Eucharistic Liturgy is either qurobo, meaning "approach" Or qurbono, "oblation" or "sacrifice." The Holy Fathers of the Syrian Church often refer to the Liturgy as the rozé qadeeshé (the Holy Mysteries)The Liturgy itself consists of two basic parts, the Order of Offering and the Anaphora proper. The Order of Offering is composed of the Liturgy of Preparation and the Liturgy of the Word and concludes with the Creed.

3www.orthodoxtv.in

Communication with the five senses.The five sense help us in human communications. The same is applicable to our communication with God. In real worship we see, hear, smell, taste and experience the divine communion.

In worship we listen to the word of God , smell the odor of incense,touch the hands of our brethren in Kiss of Peace andtaste from the divine chalice perceiving the mysteries of the liturgical scenario.

The three fold colorsThe three fold colors by which the Holy Altar is decorated. The red covering at the altar indicates the universe and the solar system. The green coloring denotes the earth with the greenish variety of biological species. The white covering indicates the Church made sanctified and pure through the blood of the unblemished lamb of God , Jesus Christ.

4www.orthodoxtv.in

Rituals, offerings and incenseSt. Luke 5 :14 “ And he charged him to tell no one : but go and show yourself to the priest and make an offering for your cleansing as Moses commanded for a proof to the people”. Thus Jesus commanded to give offering and rites of thanks giving. Jesus is serious towards those who disobeyed the commandments. Jesus taught that offerings and rituals must help to be firm in faith and for the glorification of God. Jesus was respectful towards priesthood, offerings of thanks giving and vows.

5www.orthodoxtv.in

Bread , wine, water, oil and soil are all seen used in the redemptive process according to the Bible.

“ You do this in remembrance of me, this is my body and this is my blood” commanded Jesus.

The offering of the incense is practiced in Christian worship ( Rev. 8 : 3,4 Rev. 5:8, Heb 9:4, Mt.2: 11).

Offering of the incense is to get rid of the plagues to remove the foul smell of sin, to please the Lord with complete dedication and to keep the Biblical commandments ( Num. 16:46- 50 ) . Ex. 35: 8, 2 Chron 2: 4, 1 king 9: 25, Malachi 1:11 etc.)

With the offering of incense we are mingling with the prayers of all the saints. ( Rev: 8:4)

6www.orthodoxtv.in

Symbolic RepresentationsSymbols used by early Christians include , lamb, dove ,fish, shepherd, vine , bread, cross. The dove represents holy Spirit, Christ is the Good Shepherd, and the Lamb of God. The Greek word “ikhthus” which means fish denotes “ Jesus Christ, son of god, Savior” when alphabetically expanded. This was the creed and declaration of faith used by ancient Christians. The symbolism of salt, lamp, etc. are inspirative and educative for a Christian. They are parts of the Christian devotion. The cross speaks out the sacrificial acts of Jesus. Signing of the cross is also silent , but meaningful worship.

The icons first came into existence in Syria and Egypt. The Byzantine Church developed icons and iconostasis with a sound theology of symbols called iconography.

7www.orthodoxtv.in

Fasting, Feasting and FestivalsIn our worship we bow our heads, kneel down and pray to the Lord. (Gen 24:26, Gen 24:48, Ex 4:31, Dan 6:10, 1 king 8:54,Mt. 2:11, Rev.7:11, ps,95:6. Etc.) Fasting is pleasing to God Is 58:6-8) , God asked his people to observe fast . Joel 1:12-15. The evil one can be overcome by fasting. Luke 2:37, Mt. 17:21, Esther 4:16 , . Moses observed fasting Ex: 34:28, Mk 9:29, Acts 14:23, fasting is mentioned in 1 king 19:18. Also we see 21 days fasting of Daniel ( Dan 10:2,3) 14 days fasting in Acts 27: 33,35 . 7 days fasting of David in 2 Sam 12:16, 1 Sam 31:13, 3 days fasting of Esther 3:13, 4:16, Acts 9:9, Dan 9:3-21 , Ezra 8:3, people of Nineveh Jona 3:6 etc. Jesus is the best example Mt. 4:2, Feasts are observed as days of special honor and reverence. Jn.7:2 , acts 20:16, 1 Cor 16:8. The Jews observed feast of Passover. ( Ex. 12: 14-17) ,Pentecost ( Ex. 19:20), tabernacle ( Lev 23:24 ), Purim ( Esther 9:26) , Trumpet ( Lev 23:24) , Feasts and Festivals of Christianity commemorate events related to Christ , saints, and martyrs sharing the experiences in and with so great a cloud of witness ( Heb 12:10)

8www.orthodoxtv.in

The Anaphora opens with the Prayer of the Kiss of Peace, directed to God the Father, and includes 1.The Blessing of the Bread and Wine, 2.The Anamnesis, 3.Invocation of the Holy Spirit, 4.The six Prayers of Intercession, 5.The Prayer of Fraction and Commixture, 6.The Lord's Prayer, 7.The Great Elevation, 8.The Communion, 9.Prayer of Thanksgiving, 10.Dismissal of the Faithful and 11.The Post Communion Prayers.

9www.orthodoxtv.in

Preparation rites (tuyobo):The important elements of the preparation rites are the vesting of the celebrant and the preparation of the bread and wine on the altar. The priest places the bread in the paten and pours the wine in the chalice and holds them in the form of a cross. Then he remembers the names of the faithful, the sick and the departed. Then he places the paten and the chalice on the altar and covers them with the veil (Sosappa). The preparation rites are concluded with censing.

10www.orthodoxtv.in

Priest washing his hands

Two times during the Holy Liturgy the priest washes his hands,

1.following his vesting as part of preparation to ready the altar for the Holy Liturgy

2. At the time of the Creed.

As the priest washes his hands, he thereby reminds the congregation to leave all worldly thought and become clean in heart, spirit and mind.

The second washing reminds all that one should be thoroughly cleansed to offer up and share in the Lord's Supper.

11www.orthodoxtv.in

Public celebration or Pre-anaphora:The pre-anaphora begins with a solemn procession around the altar. Formerly at this time the bread and wine were solemnly brought to the altar in a procession. During the procession, the congregation sings the anthem (manitho) composed by Patriarch Mar Severios of Antioch (+518). This entrance hymn is a beautiful summary of our doctrine of Christ. In fact there are several liturgical hymns and prayers that describe the faith of the Church in a rather simple style. After the procession, the priest begins the Trisagion.

12www.orthodoxtv.in

The Trisagion or Thrice Holy (Agios O Theos,)recalls the vision experienced by the Prophet Isaiah of the Lord's throne and the proclamation of the six-winged seraphim (Isaiah 6: 1-3): "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory."

The Trisagion prayer is an ancient prayer in Christianity Revelation 4:8 The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying:“Holy, holy, holy,Lord God Almighty,Who was and is and is to come

Kyrie eleison ('Lord, have mercy').

13www.orthodoxtv.in

Greek : Ágios o Theos. (Holy God)Ágios íschyros. (Holy Strong One)Ágios athánatos, eléison imas. (Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us)

In the Oriental Orthodox Churches, the Trisagion is understood as addressing Christ, and is amended to read: "Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, who was crucified for us, have mercy on us.”In Orthodox tradition the Trisagion, then, is explicitly Trinitarian: “God” refers to the Father, “Strong” to the Son and “Immortal” to the holy Spirit. In his letter to Jordanes St John develops this Trinitarian understanding of the hymn, “’Holy God’, the Father, ‘Holy Strong’, the Son, incarnate, crucified in the flesh and risen, ‘Holy Immortal’, the holy Spirit”.

14www.orthodoxtv.in

Moreover, the tradition of the Orthodox Syrian Church records that at the time of our Lord's crucifixion, the seraphim descended from heaven and encircled the Body of Christ, singing the first three verses of the Thrice Holy, excluding the phrase "Who was crucified for us " as Jesus had died for men and not for the angels. It is said that Joseph of Arimathea, who was to request the Body of Christ from Pilate, was present and was inspired to complete the seraphim's chant, singing forth: "You Who were crucified for us, have mercy upon us."

15www.orthodoxtv.in

At the Trisagion, the priest touches first the edge of the altar board (tablitho), then the rim of the paten and finally the lip of the chalice. This action mystically signifies that the praise of God the Son ascends through three ranks of the angelic choir in three separate stages, and that the mystical presence of the Lord is associated with these three liturgical objects.

16www.orthodoxtv.in

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, one true God: the Holy Spirit, one true God: Glory be to Him; and may His grace and mercy Glory be to Him; and may His grace and mercy be upon us for ever. Amen be upon us for ever. Amen Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, (Isiah 6:3) (Isiah 6:3) by by Whose glory, the heaven and the earth are filled; Whose glory, the heaven and the earth are filled; Hosanna in the highest.Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He, Who has come, and is to come, in Blessed is He, Who has come, and is to come, in the name of the Lord God: Glory be to Him in the name of the Lord God: Glory be to Him in the highest. the highest. Holy art Thou, O God! Holy art Thou, O God! Holy art Thou, Almighty, Holy art Thou, Holy art Thou, Almighty, Holy art Thou, Immortal, Immortal, + Crucified for us, Have mercy on us + Crucified for us, Have mercy on us Lord, have mercy upon us,Lord, have mercy upon us, Lord, be kind and have mercy, Lord, accept Lord, be kind and have mercy, Lord, accept Thou our office, Thou our office, And our entreaties; Have mercy on us. And our entreaties; Have mercy on us. Glory be to Thee, O God! Glory be to Thee, O God! Glory be to Thee, O Creator, Glory be to Thee, Glory be to Thee, O Creator, Glory be to Thee, O King, O King, Christ, who dost pity Sinners Thy servants. Christ, who dost pity Sinners Thy servants. Barekmor.Barekmor.

17www.orthodoxtv.in

LORD’S PRAYER LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heavenOur Father, who art in heaven, , hallowed be Thy Name; Thy hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom; kingdom; Thy will be done on earth, as it Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread: Give us this day our daily bread: and forgive us our debts and and forgive us our debts and sins, as we also have forgiven sins, as we also have forgiven our debtors. our debtors. Lead us not into temptation; but Lead us not into temptation; but deliver us deliver us from the evil one. from the evil one. For Thine is the kingdom, the For Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever power, and the glory, for ever and ever. and ever. Amen.Amen.

18www.orthodoxtv.in

HAIL MARY Hail, Mary, full of grace,

our Lord, is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and

blessed is the fruit of thy womb, our Lord Jesus Christ.

O Virgin Saint Mary, O Mother of

God, pray for us sinners, now and at all times, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

19www.orthodoxtv.in

Elements which were adopted from the Synagogue worship(1)Reading of Scriptures (1 Tim. 4:13, 1 Thess. 5:27, Col. 4:16).(2)Psalms and Hymns (1 Cor. 14:26; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16).(3)Public Prayers (Acts 2:42; 1 Tim. 2:12), followed by the Peoples’ Amen (1 Cor. 16:24). (4)Sermon or instruction (1 Cor. 14:26; Acts 20:7). (5)Confession of the faith was an important element (1 Cor. 15:1-4; 1Tim. 6:12), though there was no fixed creed. Offering for charitable work (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:10-l3; Rom. 15:26).

20www.orthodoxtv.in

(B) Elements which were derived from the Last Supper (1)The celebration of the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor 10:16; 11:23; Acts 2:42, 46; 20:7). (2)Benediction and thanksgiving (1 Cor. 11:23; 14:16; 1 Tim. 2:1; Luke 22:19). (3)Intercession (eg. John 18). (4)The saying of the Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4). (5)Hymns and the Kiss of peace as part of the Lord’s Supper(Rom. 16:16; 1 Cor. 16:20; 1 Thess. 5:26; 1 Pet. 5:14). (6) The practice of men and women sitting separately as in the Synagogue and of men attending worship with their heads unveiled and women with their heads veiled (1Cor. 11:6-7). (7) The practice of standing up during prayers (Eph. 6:14; Philip. 1:2; 1Tim. 2:8).

21www.orthodoxtv.in

By Thy light we see the light Jesus, full of light; Thou, true Light, dost give the light To Thy creatures all. Lighten us with Thy gay light, Thou, the Father’s light divine.

Thou who dwellest in the light- Mansions holy, pure; Keep us from all hateful thoughts, from all passions vile. Grant purity in our hearts, Deeds of righteousness to do.

God, who didst receive the lamb Blameless Abel brought, Who the gift of Noah took, Abram’s sacrifice; See our fast and hear our praye’r, Answer by Thy grace our pleas.

Come ye sinners, and implore, Seek forgiveness here; To those knocking at the door Openeth the Lord. He that asketh, doth receive, He that seeketh, sure doth find.

Lord, grant good remembrance to all the faithful dead; Who took thy sacred body and Thy living blood. May they stand on Thy right side, On that day Thy grace shall dawn

22www.orthodoxtv.in

Mary who brought Thee forth and John who baptized Thee, these are our suppliants to Thee.

Have mercy upon us, Oh Lord. By Thy Mother’s Earnest Pray’rs By Thy saints entreaties: I adore Thee, Lord and King! Sole begotten, heavenly one, Word and Father’s Son Though immortal Thou dost be- In Thy nature true, Thou descendedst-by Thy grace, Bringing life-salvation free- For our fallen human race; Thou incarnate-wast of her, Holy Virgin blest- Mary, glorious chaste and pure, Mother of our God. Man becoming-nor with change, Thou wast crucified for us, Christ, who art our Lord and God; Thou didst trample-death by death, Ending this our death. Thou art One of persons three, Holy Trinity, Worshipped equal-praised the same, With the Father, and the Holy Ghost, Have Thou mercy-on-us all.

23www.orthodoxtv.in

24www.orthodoxtv.in

25www.orthodoxtv.in

Holy art Thou, O God! Holy art Thou, Almighty Holy art Thou, Immortal,Rom:1:23. 1 Timithy1:17

Crucified for us, Have mercy-on us.

Kurielaison, Kurielaison, Kurielaison

Celebrant (silently) Our Lord accept our prayers and supplications, which we offer you at this time. Make us worthy so that we may, with purity and holiness, observe Your commandments and those of Your divine apostle and of Paul, the architect of Your Holy

Church; our Lord and our God forever.

26www.orthodoxtv.in

Reading of the Scriptures:Then the Epistles and the Gospel are read. Formerly, the lessons from the Old Testament were also read at this moment. The Gospel is the “life-giving proclamation” of the words and deeds of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our worship and our hope are founded on the salvific work and the life-giving words of the Lord. In the early Church, the Scripture reading was followed by the sermon, a custom still followed by many Churches. Sermon is an important element of the worship and it aims at explaining the meaning and relevance of the text that was read.

27www.orthodoxtv.in

28www.orthodoxtv.in

Those Apostles Chosen, sent by God, they went- to ev’ry place, Through all the world, Gentiles heard from them the news, The Gospel grace. They proclaimed-the kingdom, Heav’ns rule-of freedom, For the

faithful bliss.

29www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: (Silently) Accept, O Lord, our prayers and our supplications Which we offer before Thee at this time. Make us worthy, that in purity and holiness We may keep Thy commandments, And those of Thy divine Apostles, as also of Paul, The architect and builder of Thy holy Church, Our Lord and our God, for ever and ever.

Reader :The lesson from the Acts of the Holy Apostles Habibai, Barekhmor Or : The General Epistle of St.(name)

Congregation: Glory be to the Lord of the Apostles, and His mercy be upon us-for eve

30www.orthodoxtv.in

Paul the blessed- Saint, the Lord’s Apostle, said If one come to preach to you Other doctrine than we know, Be he man or angel bright, Curs’d be he in Churchs sight; Doctrines all diverse arise, Shooting up with first and last Trusts God’s truth and holds it fast.

Celebrant: (Silently) Grant us, O Lord God, the knowledge of Thy divine words Fill us with the understanding of Thy holy Gospel, The riches of Thy divine gifts and the indwelling of Thy Holy Spirit. Grant us that with joy we may keep Thy commandments Rejoicing to accomplish and fulfill Thy will And be counted worthy of Thy grace and mercies Now and at all times, for ever and ever.

31www.orthodoxtv.in

Reader: The lesson from the Epistle of St. Paul, the Apostle, to the (............) Ahai Barekhmor. Congregation: Praise be to the Lord of Apostle, and His mercy be upon us for ever.

Congregation:

Halleluiah, halleluiah, hallelyiah Offer unto him sacrifices of praise Enter the courts of the Lord, with spotless offerings Worship the Lord before His holy altar, Halleluiah.

Reader: With calmness and reverence, and with sober minds, let us give heed, and listen to the Gospel of the living words of God, in the Holy Evangelion of our Lord Jesus Christ, that is read to us.

32www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: +Peace be-unto-you—all.Congregation: And with thy spirit. Celebrant: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, Life giving proclamation from (....)the Apostle the (St. Matthew or St. John) who proclaims life and redemption to the world. OR (...)The perching Evangelist, who publishes good tidings of life and redemption to the world. (St. Mark or St. Luke)

Congregation: Blessed is He, who has come and is to come; Praise be to Him, who sent Him for Our salvation, and His mercy be upon us all-for ever. Celebrant: Now in the time of the dispensation of our Lord and Our God and our Redeemer Jesus Christ, the word of life. God who was incarnate of the Holy Virgin Mary, + these things thus came to pass in this manner. Congregation: We believe and confess.

33www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: + Peace be-unto-you—all.[One of the following or any other hymn prescribed for the day is singing]

Congregation:

Blessed are those servants good Whom their Lord shall find Wakeful, working when he comes To His Vine-yard good Girding up His-loins he serves them all- They who worked with-Him from morn till eve. God the Father makes them sit And the Son serves them Lo, the Holy Paraclete Plaits them victor’s crowns- Halleluiah-setting on their heads.

34www.orthodoxtv.in

Promiun-Sedra and the Blessing of the Censor.The Syriac word Sedra means ‘row’ or ‘series’. Sedra is a series of prayers and meditations. Promiun (Greek word means introduction) is the introduction to Sedra. Promiun and sedra help us to participate in the Holy Qurbana with devotion and attention.

35www.orthodoxtv.in

36www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: (Silently) Praise and thanksgiving and exaltation to our Lord Jesus Christ, for all His life-giving words to us, and to His Father Who sent Him for our salvation, and to His living and life-giving Holy Spirit, now and for ever more. Amen. Reader: StomuenKalos ….Kurielaison. Celebrant: Let us all pray and beseech of the Lord for Grace & Mercy. Congregation: O merciful Lord, have mercy upon us-and help us. Celebrant: Make us worthy, O Lord, to offer You praise, thanksgiving, glory, adoration, and unceasing proper exaltation continually at all times and in all seasons. PROMION

Celebrant: Glory be to the High and Exalted One, Who brought us forth out of nothingness, to that High Priest Who redeemed us by His own precious blood from the slavery of sin, and appointed us to adoption as children! To Him be glory and honor and worship in this time when this divine Eucharist is being consummated and in all times and seasons and hours, and all the days of our life for ever. Congregation: Amen

37www.orthodoxtv.in

Reader: Bless me, Lord: In the presence of the merciful Lord, and in front of His propitiating altar, and before these holy, divine and heavenly mysteries, and before this awe-inspiring and sacred Eucharist, incense is placed by the hand of this [Reverend Priest] (Most Revered holy father) [Most Exalted Holy Father] ; let us all pray and beseech of the Lord for mercy-and compassion.

Congregation: O merciful Lord, have mercy upon us and help us

38www.orthodoxtv.in

left corner of the chalice veil

As the priest folds back the left corner of the chalice veil (shushefo) at the Offertory is symbolized the placing of a seal on the tomb of Christ. The unfolding of the veil at the close of the Preface (Proemion) following the Gospel signifies the removal of the tomb's seal.

39www.orthodoxtv.in

The shushefo

The shushefo is spread over the Holy Mysteries to symbolize the invisibleness of the Godhead concealed in the Mysteries and to manifest that Christ's sacrifice was fore-shadowed by the sacrifices of the Old Law. As the chalice veil is lifted and waved over the bread and wine, the Church recalls the angels rolling away the stone from the tomb of our Lord and underlines the flow of grace into the Mysteries and through them to all believers, bestowing upon the faithful forgiveness and salvation.

This action also indicates the need to remove from our hearts the blind passions surrounding our human nature in order to truly see and comprehend what is about to take place upon the altar as we relive the sacrifice of Christ.

Promiun-Sedra and the Blessing of the Censor. The Syriac word Sedra means ‘row’ or ‘series’. Sedra is a series of prayers and meditations. Promiun (Greek word means introduction) is the introduction to Sedra. Promiun and sedra help us to participate in the Holy Qurbana with devotion and attention.

40www.orthodoxtv.in

Hoosoyo (Prayer for Pardon and Mercy)

Celebrant: Therefore, O Thou, who dost absolve and sanctify, who dost forgive and wipe away our misdeeds, and who doest not remember our evils, blot out, O Lord God, by the tender mercy of Thy love, my sins, great, many and innumerable, as also the sins of all Thy believers. O Gracious and Good One, have compassion on us. Remember us, O Lord God, in Thy mercy. And remember also, Lord, the souls of our parents, of our brothers and sisters, elders, teachers, of our departed ones, and of all the faithful departed, children of Thy holy and glorious Church. Comfort, O Lord God, their souls and spirits and bodies. Sprinkle upon their bones the dew of Thy grace and mercy. And be Thou the Absolution and the Absolver, to them and to us. O Christ our King, our Lord and Master, Lord of Glory.

41www.orthodoxtv.in

Give heed to us, my Lord, come to our aid and help us. And redeem us, and receive our prayers and supplications. Remove and cut off, O God, by Thy mercy, all painful punishments. Spare us the rods of Thy wrath, forbid them by Thy mercy. And make us all worthy of that Supreme Good which is for men and women of peace. Of Thy bounty, grant us the gift of Christian perfection, so pleasing unto Thee, so becoming and so worthy of Thy divinity. Again, make us all worthy of the Supreme Good. And unto Thee we offer up glory and praise, now and at all times, for ever and ever. Amen

42www.orthodoxtv.in

SEDRO

Celebrant: Glory be to Thee, O Good Shepherd, Who gave Himself as a sacrifice for His flock. I give thanks to Thee, O God, that in Thy mercy Thou hast made me, Who am but despicable dust of the earth, worthy of ascending to the place where dwellest the Glorious Shekinah of Thy divine mysteries. Thou hast lifted me up to the exalted regions of the Holy of Holies of Thy Majesty and enlisted me among the ranks of the Cherubim that glorify Thee and the Seraphim who sing Holy, Holy, Holy, to Thee. Behold, I stand in the fiery place and before Thy flaming throne, and beg from Thee absolution for Thy people, forgiveness for Thy whole flock.

43www.orthodoxtv.in

Open us, O Lord, the treasure houses of Thy bounty to the needy who beseech Thee! Shower Thy goodness upon the sheep of Thy flock! Tear up the bond of our debts. Remit the debts of us poor sinners. Wipe way from Thy memory any debts that we still owe Thee. And may the lost ones turn to Thee and be gathered together in Thy presence. And trusting in Thy grace, Lord, we approach this holy sacrifice placed before us. May Thy Holy Spirit be pleased in our offerings. May He descend, come and sanctify this offering, and absolve us from our uncleanness; may He cloth us with the garment of incorruption, may He make us worthy of the joy of Thy Kingdom. To Thee we lift up glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving, now and always, for ever and ever. Amen

44www.orthodoxtv.in

45www.orthodoxtv.in

Censing of the whole church

Then as the first step of the censing of the whole church, the celebrant offers incense and blesses the censer. The blessing of the censer in the Name of the Holy Trinity implies that we offer our prayers to the Triune God. Incense and censer are the symbols of Christ, who “offered Himself as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Eph.5:2). According to the Book of Revelation, ‘the prayers of the saints ascend before God as an incense’ (Rev.5:8). Therefore the offering of incense means that the prayers of the Church ascend towards God as a fragrant offering that pleases God.

46www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: May the Lord accept your oblation, and help us-by your prayers. Amen. Celebrant: Men Aloho N’Kabel..... From God may we receive remission of debts and forgiveness of sins, in both worlds for ever and ever. Amen. BLESSING OF THE CENSOR Celebrant: I, a weak and sinful servant, will lift up my voice, and say Holy is the Holy Father. + Amen. Holy is the Holy Son +Amen.

Holy is the Holy and Living Spirit + Who hallows the incense of His sinful servant, forgiving and showing mercy upon our souls, and upon the souls of our fathers and our mothers, of our brothers and our sisters, our leaders and our teachers, of our departed ones and upon all the faithful departed, children of the Holy Church, in both worlds, for ever and ever- Amen.

47www.orthodoxtv.in

The censer At the Blessing of the Censer there is a profession of the Holy Trinity. The entire congregation responds "Amen" as the priest declares the holiness of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The censer signifies the Blessed Virgin who conceived within herself the Son of God, represented by the incense placed in the censer upon the burning coals, which symbolizes our humanity.

The censer likewise recalls John the Baptist going forth before Christ to prepare His way.

48www.orthodoxtv.in

The Creed

As the Creed is being chanted, a deacon goes about the nave of the church with the censer and returns to the altar. This act signifies the goodness of the Holy Trinity which goes forth from the Godhead, but is not changed or diminished. It likewise represents God the Word Who came down from heaven and became an incense of reconciliation, offering Himself for us to the Father and making atonement for all humanity by bringing us back to His Father without being changed or losing His Divinity.

49www.orthodoxtv.in

"The Apostles' Creed is so called because it is rightly considered to be a faithful summary of the apostles' faith

"Our profession of faith begins with God, for God is the First and the Last, the beginning and the end of everything. The Credo begins with God the Father, for the Father is the first divine person of the Most Holy Trinity; our Creed begins with the creation of heaven and earth, for creation is the beginning and the foundation of all God's works."

50www.orthodoxtv.in

The Creed of the Church

We believe in one true God (John10:29), the Father Almighty (Mat 5:16), Makerof heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. (Genesis)And in one Lord (Exodus 20:2), Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God,(John 3:16, Mat 3:17, 16: 16, 17:5, John 5:32, 37; Roma 1:4) Who wasbegotten of the Father before all worlds (Colos. 1:15, 17); light of light(John 8:12, 1:8), True God of true God; (1 John 5:20) begotten and not made (John 1:14); andbeing of one substance with His Father (Colosi.1:15, Phili 2:6, 2 Cori 4:4, Heb 1:3), by Whom all things were made; (John 1:3, 1 Cori 8:6, Col 1:16) Whofor us men and for our salvation came down from heaven (Mat 1:21, Luk 2:11, John 4:42, Phili 2:6,8, 2 Cori 8:9, John 3:13) andwas incarnate by the Holy Spirit and of the Virgin Mary,Mother of God (Luk. 1:35, 43, 8:25, 23:50, 53, Mark 10:45, Isaiah 7:14, Hebrews2:18, 4:15, John 19:5, Mat 8:20, 11:19, 13:54) And He became man, and wascrucified for us in the days of Pontius Pilate (Mat. 27:17, 26:35,50,59,60), andHe suffered, died and was buried (1 Peter 3; 18, 2:21, 4:1, Roma. 6:1, Colo.1:20), andthe third day He rose according to His will (Mat 28: 6,7), And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of His Father (Acts1:9, 7:55, 56, 1 John 2:2); and He will come again with great gloryto judge both the living and the dead (Mat 16:2, 2 Peter 3:13-16 Acts 10:42, 2 Timothy 4:1); and His kingdom shall have no end (Luke 1, 12:32, 1:33).

51www.orthodoxtv.in

And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of life to all(John 6:63, Roman 8:11), Who proceeds from theFather (John 14, 16, 26, 15:26); Who together with theFather and the Son is worshipped and glorified (John 16:14), Who spoke through theProphets and Apostles (2 Peter1: 21, Mat 10:20, Acts 16:6, 28, 26, 27,5:3). And in One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church(Mat. 16:18).

We confess one baptism for the remission of sins (Acts2:38, 22:16).And we look for the resurrection of the dead(Mat, 1Thess.),and the new life in the world to come (1 Timothy)Amen.

This is the creed of the church. There is not a single phrase or sentence inthe creed which is not Biblical.

52www.orthodoxtv.in

Deacon: Bless Me, Lord. Let us attend divine wisdom. Let us all stand well and respond to the prayer of the [Reverend Priest] [Most Revered Holy Father] [Most Exalted Holy Father]. Celebrant: We believe in one true GodCongregation: The Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible: And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God; begotten of the Father before all worlds; light of light very God of very God; begotten, not made; being of the same substance with the Father; and by whom all things were made; + who for us human, and for our salvation, came down from heaven, +and was incarnate of the holy virgin Mary, Mother of God, by the Holy ghost, and became man; + and was crucified for us, in the days of Pontius Pilate;

53www.orthodoxtv.in

and suffered, and died, and was buried; and the third day rose again according to His will; and ascended in to heaven, and sit at the right hand of the Father; and shall come again in His great glory to judge both the living and the dead; whose Kingdom shall have no end; And in one living Spirit, the life-giving Lord of all, who proceeds from the Father; and who with the Father and Son is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets and the apostles: And in one, holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church; and we acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and look for the resurrection of the dead: and the new life in the world to come. Amen.

54www.orthodoxtv.in

Throughout the Liturgy, the bending of the knees as the priest kneels before the altar signifies our fall through the transgression of Adam.

As the priest rises, our own resurrection through the resurrection of Christ is symbolized.

55www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: (Brothers, sisters, teachers, please forgive me and pray for me that my offering of this Holy Qurbana may be acceptable by our Lord, God.)

Come, the time of pray’r is here, Come for pardon, have no fear; ‘tis the time to ask anew, “tis the time for mercy too.

See the holy Priest ascend, Mounting stairs which heav’nward tend There the pure Qurban to raise For who’er communicates.

Mercy here is full and free, Come, beloved, come and see, Give the kiss of peace divine, Hearts sincere in love combine.

56www.orthodoxtv.in

Let us now be reconciled To each heav’nly Father’s child, So, before God’s throne of grace Find compassion of His face

Lord, have mercy on us now, Grant forgiveness as we bow, Answer, Lord, our earnest p’er; Good art Thou-Though frail we be.

Deacon: Bless me Lord. Let us Stand and sing well (Barekhmor, Stoumen Kalos)

Congregation: Lord, have mercy upon us (Kurielaaison )

57www.orthodoxtv.in

58www.orthodoxtv.in

THE ANAPHORA (Standing on the steps of the Thronos and doing prayer for peace)

Celebrant: O God great and eternal, who are tranquility, peace and love and fountain of mercy, grant peace to Thy Holy Church, and protect the world by Thy grace and to Thee we will lift up glory and praise, to Thee and to Thine only-begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, now and always, for ever and ever. Amen. Celebrant: Peace be-unto-you—all.Congregation: And with thy-spirit

Deacon: Bless me, Lord. Let us in the love of our Lord and our God, give peace to one another; every one to his neighbor, by the holy and divine kiss.

59www.orthodoxtv.in

Kiss of Peace

By the Kiss of Peace is externally shown our inward love and concord with our neighbor. Being made at peace with one another, one is made at peace with God. The peace given to one another does away with mutual enmity, signifying that Jesus has made an end of the enmity between God and man, making peace and love reign among us. The Kiss of Peace also fulfills the words of our Lord (Matthew, 5:23 and 24): "So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your broker, and then come and offer your gift." It likewise recalls the words of St. Peter (I Peter, 5:14): "Greet one another with the kiss of love."

60www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: O Lord God, make us worthy of this peace, all the days of our lives. or

Let us give peace from our hearts Now and all eternity.May Lord’s peace dwell in our hearts

Let us kiss all from our hearts; His peace and calm-protect us, Now and all eternity

61www.orthodoxtv.in

Deacon: After this holy and divine peace being given let us bow our heads before the merciful Lord.

Congregation: We bow our heads before Thee, our Lord and our God.

Celebrant: O Lord, Stretch forth, Thy right hand, which is full of blessings and bless Thy servants and worshippers, who have now bowed their heads before Thee, and unto Thee we will raise up glory and praise, to Thee and to Thine only-begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, both now and always, for ever and ever. Congregation: Amen.

62www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: O Lord, Strengthen us, to offer this spiritual and bloodless sacrifice, for the sins and iniquities of Thy flock, so that our unlawfulness may be blotted out and forgiven. And unto Thee we will raise up glory and praise, to Thee and to Thine only-begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, both now and always for ever.

Congregation: Amen.

63www.orthodoxtv.in

64www.orthodoxtv.in

65www.orthodoxtv.in

(Prayer of the Sosaffa-Anaphora Ceil)

Celebrant (silently) Thou art the rock of flint which sent forth twelve streams of water for the twelve tribes of Israel. Thou art the rock of flint which was places against the tomb of our Redeemer.

Deacon: Bless me, Lord, Let us now stand well; let us stand in awe; let us stand with sober minds; let us stand in comeliness; let us stand in holiness, let us all , my brothern, stand in love and true faith, especially in the fear of God, and look upon this awe-inspiring and holy anaphora that is set before us by the hands of this [Reverend Priest] [Most Revered Holy Father] [Most exalted Holy Father] for he offers the living sacrifice to God the Father, Lord of all things, on behalf of us all, in calm-and peace.

Congregation: This Anaphora is mercy, peace, sacrifice and thanksgiving.

66www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: May the love of God the Father + the grace of the only begotten Son + and fellowship and indwelling of the Holy Spirit + be with you all, my beloved brethren, forever and ever. Congregation: And also with thy spirit. Celebrant (Lifting up the hands) Let our minds and thoughts and hearts, be above where our Lord, Jesus Christ, sits at the right hand of God the Father.Congregation: Unto You O’ Lord, they are lifted up. Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord in fear and trembling.[Celebrant waves his hands] silent: O king of king, God the father: with the son and the Holy spirit, Congregation: It is right and just to give thanks

67www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: Angels, arch-angels, cherubim and seraphim, thrones and lordships and heavenly hosts; invisible and innumerable, unceasingly praise and glorify, and sing the praise of victory with uninterrupted mouths and ineffable voice, giving utterance to Thy triumphant glory, praising, shouting, crying and saying (Mshabhin we mz’aquin we go’en womrin) Congregation: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, heaven and earth are full of glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He that came and is to come in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the Highest. [The celebrant waves his hands over the holy mysteries saying silently:] Truly, Thou art holy, O God the Father and Thy Holy Spirit who is verily holy, with Thy Holy Son our Lord Jesus Christ

68www.orthodoxtv.in

69www.orthodoxtv.in

70www.orthodoxtv.in

71www.orthodoxtv.in

72www.orthodoxtv.in

The Institution Epiclesis and Consecration

Celebrant: When He, the Sinless, of His own will, prepared Himself to accept death for us, sinners, He took bread in to His holy hands, and offered thanks, Congregation: Bless, O Lord (Barekh Mor) Celebrant: And He blessed, ++ and sanctified+ and broke and gave it to His Apostles and said, “Take, eat of it; this is My Body which is broken for you and for many, and is given for the remission of sins, and for life eternal. (VALHAYE delolam olmin)

Congregation: Amen.

73www.orthodoxtv.in

[Blesses the Cup]

Celebrant: Likewise also He took the cup and offered thanks, Congregation: Bless, O Lord (Barekh Mor)

Celebrant: and He blessed++, and sanctified, + and gave it to His holy apostles and said “Take, drink of it all of you, This is My Blood, which is shed and given for the remission of sins, and for life eternal. [VALHAYE delolam olmin] Congregation:

Amen.

74www.orthodoxtv.in

Priest: He told them in advance and commanded them: “Whenever you celebrate this mystery, remember my death, and resurrection, until I come. (‘damo dozeno)

Congregation: We Commemorate Thy death, O Lord, and confess Thy resurrection and await the second coming. May Thy blessings be upon us all.

OR Thy death we remember Thy resurrection we confessThy second coming we look for; Thy blessings be upon us.

75www.orthodoxtv.in

76www.orthodoxtv.in

Lifts up the spoon

Following the words of blessing upon the bread and the cup, the priest lifts up the spoon and its small cushion (gomouro) placing these to the right. He lifts these over his right shoulder in a quick motion to signify the second coming of Christ on the last day which shall be like a flash of lightning in the sky. The spoon here represents our Lord and the cushion His throne. By placing these to the right is revealed that Christ sits at the right hand of the Father.

77www.orthodoxtv.in

78www.orthodoxtv.in

79www.orthodoxtv.in

80www.orthodoxtv.in

81www.orthodoxtv.in

Priest: Therefore, O Lord, while we commemorate Your death and Your resurrection on the third day, Your ascension in to heaven and Your sitting on the right hand of the God the Father, Thy awesome and glorious second coming to judge the world in justice and reward everyone according to His deeds, we offer up this bloodless sacrifice beseeching You not to deal with us according to our debts, and not to reward us according to our iniquities, but bolt out the sins of Your servants according to Your abundant mercy, Your people and Your inheritance invoke You and through You, we pray to thy Father (LABUK KAD’OMRO)

82www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: Have mercy upon us, O God the Father Almighty, we praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, and we beseech Thee for mercy. O Lord God, O Good one, Have compassion and mercy upon us.Priest [[The celebrant prays silently with waving of hands] We also, O Lord, Thy weak and sinful servants give thanks unto Thee and confess Thy goodness towards all and on behalf of all. (Invocation of the Holy Spirit)

Deacon: Bless me, Lord. How awesome is this hour and how solemn this time, my beloved ones, wherein the Holy Spirit from the topmost heights of heaven takes wing and descends and broods and rests upon this Holy Eucharist set before us and sanctifies it. Stand ye still, with fear and trembling and pray that peace may be with us and all of us may have tranquility. Congregation: May peace be with us and grace unto us all

83www.orthodoxtv.in

Priest: Give heed to me O Lord!, Give heed to me O Lord! Give heed to O Lord and have mercy upon us.

Congregation: Lord, have mercy, (Kurielaison)Lord, have mercy, (Kurielaison)

Lord, have mercy upon us (Kurielaison)

84www.orthodoxtv.in

celebrant waves his hands As the celebrant waves his hands over the bread and wine, he signifies the descent of the Holy Spirit from above and the Spirit's hovering over the Mysteries, as the Third Person did over Christ in the Jordan. The hands are waved in a fashion to reflect the fluttering of the wings of the Holy Spirit Who descended upon the womb of the Virgin Mary and incarnated the Word and Who now descends to make the bread and wine truly the Body and Blood of our Lord.

85www.orthodoxtv.in

86www.orthodoxtv.in

87www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: [Consecrates the bread] By His indwelling here may the Holy Spirit make this bread as the life giving Body + the redeeming body and + the true Body + of Christ, our God. Amen. Celebrant: [Consecrates the wine] By His indwelling here may the Holy Spirit perfect this mixed cup to be the blood of +the new covenant +the redeeming blood + and the very blood of Christ, our God. Amen.

Celebrant: O Lord may those who participate in them may become heirs in the Kingdom of heaven, and may rejoice in the new life with the holy ones; and to Thee we will raise up glory and thanksgiving, to You and to Thine Only-begotten Son, and to Thy Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen.

88www.orthodoxtv.in

89www.orthodoxtv.in

The Great Intercession Deacon Bless me Lord, Let us pray and beseech our Lord and our God, at this great and awesome and holy time for our Fathers and rulers who are ruling over us, this day, and in this present life, and who tend and rule the Holy Churches of God in the four quarters of the earth, our honorable and most blessed Patriarchs, our Father Mor Ignatius, and our Father Mor Baselius and our Father Mor Gregorious and our venerable Bishop Mor …..] that may be confirmed by God with the rest of all Orthodox Bishops and spiritual Fathers, truly faithful: May their prayers be a stronghold for us; let us beseech the Lord. Celebrant: [Silent Prayer] (Lord, remember all the shepherds and spiritual leaders of the Church and the whole priestly order)

Congregation: Lord, have mercy (Kurielaison) Celebrant: Illumine us, O Lord, Thy beloved ones by the light of Thy divine instruction. Grant unto them gracious times and settled lives of peace and concord. And to Thee we will lift up praise and thanksgiving, to Thee, and to Thine only begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, now and for evermore. Amen.

90www.orthodoxtv.in

2FOR FAITHFUL BRETHERN AND SISTERS NOW LIVING

Deacon: Bless me, Lord, (Barekhmor) Again we remember all our faithful brethren, and true Christians, who have already bidden and entreated us, weak and infirm, to remember them at this hour and at this time, and also all who are fallen in any kind of hard temptation, and who take refuge in Thee, Lord God Almighty, for their salvation and speedy visitation by Thee. And for this congregation preserved by God and for the concord and prosperity of all her faithful members that they may attain righteousness; let us beseech the Lord. Celebrant: [Silent Prayer] (And remember, O Lord, Thy believing and Orthodox people, here in this place and in all places.) Congregation: Lord, have mercy (Kurielaison)

91www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: For all who are oppressed or persecuted, for those that are being tortured or detained, for the poor and the miserable, for exiles and vagrants, for refugees and the homeless, for those in prison or in solitary confinement, for orphans and widows, that Thou Lord may be their guardian and provider, we beseech Thee. And to Thee we will lift up praise and thanksgiving-to Thee, and to Thine only- begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, now and for evermore.

92www.orthodoxtv.in

THREE FOR OUR RULES

Deacon: Bless me Lord, (Barekhmor) Again we remember all the faithful Christian rulers who in the four corners of the earth have supported and confirmed the Churches and monasteries of God in the true faith and for all Christendom, all the clergy and all the faithful people, that they may attain righteousness. Let us beseech the Lord. Celebrant: Silent Prayer] Remember, O Lord, all believing rulers and all officials who do Thy will. Grant Thy wisdom to those placed in authority over us.)Congregation: Lord, have mercy (Kurielaison)Celebrant: Grant us, O Lord, the gift of Thy grace, that we may live before Thee a life peaceful and well pleasing, and that we may be looked upon with favour by those placed in authority over us. Grant them Thy wisdom and guide them in Thy ways. And unto Thee we will raise up praise and thanksgiving-to Thee, and to Thine only begotten Son to Thy Holy Spirit-now and for ever more.

93www.orthodoxtv.in

FOUR FOR THE DEPARTED

Deacon: Barekhmor, Again we commemorate her who is worthy to be blessed and glorified of all the generations of the earth, the holy, the exalted the glorious and Ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God. Along with her remember the prophets and the Apostles, the preachers and the evangelists, the martyrs and confessors and also the blessed St. John, the Baptist, the Fore-runner of His Master and the Holy and illustrious St. Stephen, the head of the deacons and the first of the martyrs, and the exalted St. Peter and St. Paul, Chief among the Apostles. Let us also remember together all the faithful departed saints, both men and women. May their prayers be a stronghold for us. Let us beseech the Lord. Celebrant: [Silent Prayer] (Remember, O Lord, the Virgin Mary the God bearer; John the Baptist; Stephen the Deacon, and all those who served Thee well.)

94www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: Lord, have mercy (Kurielaison) Celebrant: By the prayers and intercessions of those who have pleased Thee by their good life, Lord make us also worthy to share in their inheritance and to partake with them in the kingdom. To Thee we offer up glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving, to Thee and to Thine only begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit – now and for evermore.

95www.orthodoxtv.in

FIVE FOR THE DEPARTED – FOR OUR FATHERS IN GOD Deacon: Barekhmor, Again we commemorate those who have falen asleep in holiness and are at rest in the abode of the saints and have kept undefiled the one Apostolic faith and entrusted to us; and we proclaim the sacred and holy Ecumenical Synods of Nicea, of Constantinople and of Ephesus. We also remember our glorious and God bearing Fathers, prelates and doctors present in them. James the Holy Apostle and martyr, the first Bishop of Jerusalem, and the saints: Baselius, Gregorius, Dioscors, Timotheus, Philoxenos, Anthemos, Ivanios. Illustrious St. Kyrillos, that exalted and veritable tower of knowledge who declared and made manifest the incarnation of the Word God who become flesh and we also remember our Patriah Mor Severius, the crown of the Syrians, that rational mouth and pillar and teacher of all the Holy Church of God, the meadow full of flowers who always preached that Mary is undoubtedly the Mother of God and our righteous and holy Father Mor Jacob Baradeus who uphold of the Orthodox faith, Mor Ephr- em, Mor Jacob, Mor Isac, Mor Balai and Mor Barsaumo, the head of the anchorities, Mor Simon the Stylite and Mor Abhai the chosen one, and the saints of Malanka, Parumala Mar Gregorious and Mor Dionesius of Vattasseril and our Father of India St. Thomas and all those who before them with them and after them have kept the one, true and uncorrupted faith and delivered it unto us. May their prayers be a stronghold to us, let us beseech the Lord.

96www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant:[ Silent Prayer] (Remember, O Lord, our holy fathers, our beloved teachers, and our true masters in the faith.)

Congregation: Lord, have mercy (Kurielaison)

Celebrant: Establish us by Thy Grace O Lord, upon the rock of the Orthodox faith of the three holy ecumenical Synods. And unto Thee we will raise up praise and thanksgiving – to Thee and to Thine only – begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit – now and for evermore.

97www.orthodoxtv.in

SIX FOR ALL FAITHFUL DEPARTED

Barekhmor, Again, we commemorate all the faithful, who from this holy sanctuary and from this Church and from this place and from every where have departed, and fallen asleep in true Faith, and are at rest and have attained to Thee. O Lord, God of all spirits and of all flesh. Let us pray and beseech Christ our God who has received their souls and spirits unto Himself, that in His abundant mercy. He may make them worthy of the remission of trespasses and the forgiveness of sins, that he may carry us and them to His Heavenly Kingdom. Together let us cry and pray Lord have mercy(Kurielais- on) three times.

98www.orthodoxtv.in

Celebrant: [Silent Prayer] (And remember O Lord, our fathers and our brothers and our sisters, our leaders and all the faithful departed) [Signs the chalice, paten altar-slab and the Taksa with the cross, and remembers the faithful departed by name]

Congregation: Kurielaison, Kurielaison, Kurielaison

Celebrant: And make them inaccessible to the grasp of the powers of darkness; deliver them from the vicious grip of the evil spirits. From all afflictions and oppression rescue them. May the light of Thine only – begotten Son dawn upon them and upon us. For through Him alone do we also look forward to find grace and to receive forgiveness of sins, for us and for them. (de’ methulotheh oph lan welhon)

99www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: O God, absolve, pardon, and sanctify both us and them of the sins committed before Thee, willingly or unwillingly and deliberately and un-deliberately.

Celebrant: [silently saying:] Grant rest, and absolve, O God, our offences in thought, word or deed; for all things, both hidden and revealed, are manifest unto Thee.]

Celebrant: Hear us, O Lord, because of Thine abundant mercy and save them and us, from the coming judgment, and from the afflictions that await the wicked. And therefore, may Your blessed Name and the Names of our Lord Jesus Christ be praised and glorified in this Holy Eucharist and in all things, now, and always forever.

100www.orthodoxtv.in

Congregation: As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be from generation to generation and unto ages of ages.

Celebrant: Peace be un to you all.

Congregation: And also with your spirit

Celebrant: (Facing to the public) Nehavoon.... May the mercy of God the Great + and our Savior Jesus Christ + be with you all my beloved + forever.


The veiling of the altar prior to the Liturgy of the Word represents the time of preparation before Christ's coming.

The reading from the Old Testament is done at this particular time in appropriate correspondence to what is being symbolized by the silent acts taking place behind the altar curtain.

The veiling at the Fraction emphasizes the awesome moment of our Lord's suffering and death upon the Cross. It also represents the darkening of the sun at the time of the crucifixion. The veiling before the Presentation of the Holy Mysteries signifies the darkening of the sun on the last day in prelude to Christ's second coming in glory and majesty.


Thus truly did the logos of God suffer in the flesh and was sacrificed, and was broken on the Cross.+ His soul was parted from His body while His divinity in no way parted, either from His soul or from His body. He was pierced + on His side with a spear; blood and water flowed from it, + for the absolution of the whole world. His body was smeared in that blood; on behalf of the sins of the entire world,+ the Son died on the cross; +His soul came and was reunited with His body.++ He turned us from sinister conduct to the righteousness of life. By the blood of His body He reconciled and united the heavenly with the earthly: the chosen people with the gentile nations; and the soul with the body and established peace with His blood. And on the third day he rose from the tomb. And one is Ammanuel who cannot be divided after the union; there is no division into two natures. Thus we believe, thus we confess, and thus we affirm – that this body belongs to this blood +and this blood belongs to this body+


Father of Truth, behold Thy Son, the sacrifice that reconciles Thee Accept Him who for my sake died; let me be absolved by it. Receive this offering at my hands and be reconciled to me. Remember not against me the sins I have committed before Thy majesty. Behold His blood shed upon Golgotha by wicked men! How great are my offences! And how great is Thy mercy! If Thy mercies are weighed, they are heavier than the mountains which Thou weighest; Regard my sins and regard the oblation for them! Far greater is the oblation and sacrifice than the sins! Because I sinned, Thy beloved had to bear the nails and the spear! Sufficient are His sufferings for Thy reconciliation; by them I am given life.

Glory be to the Father who delivered up the Son for our redemption. Adoratin to the Son who died on the Cross and gave life to us all Praise to the Spirit who began and fulfilled the mystery of our redemption O Trinity exalted above all, have mercy on us all. [The Celebrant now signs the body with the blood thrice saying] Thou art the Anointed God who for our sake was pierced on His side with a spear, on the heights of Golgotha in Jerusalem + Thou art the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the World + Do Thou absolve us of our debts and forgive our sins, and make us stand on Thy right hand side +


HYMN

Hearken, Gracious Lord, we Pray Ha-Vu-Ha Knocking at Thy door, we say Kurielaison

Do not Thou deny our pleas Ha-Vu-Ha Needy are Thy devotees Kurielaison

When chastisting us, O God, Ha-Vu-Ha Spare us from Thy wrathful rod; Kurielaison

Open to us mercy’s door, Ha-Vu-Ha Kindly hear as we implore Kurielaison

Hearken as we call to Thee Ha-Vu-Ha In ourselves so frail are we; Kurielaison

Hear our prayer, for good art Thou Ha-Vu-Ha Grant our needs, though great’enow Kurielaison

Mercy grant, Lord mercy grant Ha-Vu-Ha Thine abundant mercy grant;

Count not Thou our evil deeds; Ha-Vu-Ha Kind one, who doth know our deeds Kurielaison


OR

Seraphim of fiery line Ha-Vu-Ha Saw Isaiah in the Shrine; Kurielaison

Each six-wing-ed, round the throne, Ha-Vu-Ha Ever serving God alone, Kurielaison

Covered each with two his face Ha-Vu-Ha Lest he see that Holy Grace; Kurielaison

Covered each with two his feet Ha-Vu-Ha Lest they burn in holy heat Kurielaison

Two-wing’d flying they avow, Ha-Vu-Ha Holy, holy, holy, Thou- Kurielaison

Holy art Thou, Lord of hosts Ha-Vu-Ha Praise to Thee be, all our boast Kurielaison


Deacon: Let us beseech the Lord Congregation: Kuriealaison Deacon: Barekhmor, My brethren, always let us pray to the Lord, that by His mercy we be accounted worthy of the angel of peace and concord, mercy and compassion. Congregation: Grant us O Lord, by Thy mercy. Deacon: That there be peace to the Churches; and welfare to the monasteries; and goodly preservation to their Priest; and prosperous times to their members; my brethren, always, let us-beseech the Lord. Congregation: Grant us peace O Lord, by Thy-mercy.Deacon: That we may be true Christians, who please God by good deeds, and by virtuous and pure lives; my brethren, always let us-beseech the Lord.Congregation: Enable us, O Lord, by-Thy grace.


Celebrant: O God majestic and mighty, who by Thy love of humanity called us and drew us near for this divine gift, because of this we glorify Thee, Father. We worship the Holy Spirit; And we sing the Lord’s Prayer of Thine Only- begotten Son, as we with clarity of mind and purity of thought, with simplicity of language, and with cleanliness of body and rectitude of soul, with bold confidence dare to call Thee, O Heavenly God, Holy and All-Sovereign, and to pray and to say “Our Father, who art in heaven”

Congregation: Hallowed be Thy Name: Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread: and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that trespass against us; lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the king-dom, the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.


Celebrant: O Good and merciful Father, Thou hast made us worthy of being called Thy children, deliver us also from severe temptation. Rescue us from the Evil one and from all his forces, and from the oppression of evil human beings. So that we may offer praise and thanksgiving, to You and Your only begotten Son and Your Holy Spirit now and always for ever more.

Congregation: Amen.

Celebrant: Peace be-un to you-all +

Congregation: And with thy-spirit.


Deacon: Before receiving these Holy mysteries that are offered, let us again bow our heads before the merciful Lord.

Congregation: We bow our heads before Thee, Our Lord and our God.

Celebrant: O Great King, Sovereign Ruler of all, before whose scepter of sovereignty all creation bows its head, send forth Thy blessings upon Thy holy Church that now bows her head before Thee and to Thee we shall raise up glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving, to Thee and to Thine Only-begotten Son and to Thy Holy Spirit, both now and for ever more.


Celebrant: Peace be-un to you-allCongregation: And with thy-spirit. (While facing to the Church attending people) Celebrant: May the grace and mercies of the Holy Trinity, + glorious, uncreated self-existing,+ eternal, adorable, and consubstantial + be with you all, my beloved, for ever and ever.Congregation: Amen

Deacon: Bless me, Lord. Let us look with awe and trembling

Congregation: Lord, be compassionate to us and have mercy upon us


Two deacons stand with lighted candles

Later, at the awesome moment of the Great Elevation, the priest raises up the Holy Mysteries, recalling Christ's ascension and His glorification before the heavenly host. Two deacons stand with lighted candles, one to the left and the other to the right of the altar, as the Mysteries are elevated before the congregation, signifying the two angels who appeared at the resurrection and who were present at Christ's ascension when they proclaimed (Acts 1:11): "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, Who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven."


THE ELEVATION Celebrant: Holy Mysteries are given only for the pure and the Holy. Congregation: One Holy Father, One Holy Son, one Holy Spirit are alone Celebrant: Glory be to the Father

Congregation: and to the Son and to the Living Holy Spirit, who are one, for ever and ever. Amen Celebrant: The one Holy Father with us, who, by His mercy created the universe.Congregation: Amen Celebrant: The one Holy Son with us, who by His own precious sufferings, redeemed the world.

Congregation: Amen Celebrant: The One Holy Spirit with us, who completes and perfects all that is and all that will be. May the name of the Lord be blessed as in the beginning and unto ages of ages. Congregation: Amen


In Oblations and in Pray’rs mention we our forebears Taught they us the truth to see, children of our God to be Christ’s atonement be their in God’s realm of endless day With the righteous and the just praising God in perfect us

Moriyo Rahemelan........


INCENSE PRAYER THEOTOKOS

(Psalm 45:9-11)

Celebrant: See the royal daughter stand Halle...Vu Halle... Glorious Queen at-Thy right hand ( നി�ന്നാ�ള്‍ സ്തു�തു�)

Congregation: Thy Father’s folk and home leave Thou, Ha..-Ha... The King desires thy-beauty now Barekhmor Celebrant: Shub’ho labo .... Congregation: Men olam vadha Mel olam Olmenameen

Celebrant: Those who praise the church doth sing ( ഭക്തര്‍..)

Intercession for us bring, Unto Him, Thine only Son, That he may not mercy shu


Mary’s memory (മറി�യമ�ന്‍ സ്മരണം� )

Blessing for us be, May her pray’rs for us Be a fortress thus. Barekhmor Shub’ho

Fragrance sweet of smell (ദൈ�വ പ്ര�സ്വ�പ്രതു�)

Through the air doth swell- For virgin Mary God’s Mother holy.

Moriyo Rahemelain...

Cease not, thou of grace a fount,( നി�ര്‍ത്തീ�ടര�തെതു �ര�ശു�തെ!)

From Thy pray’rs on-our account, Unto Him thine only Son That he may not mercy shun


(Psalm 92: 12-14)The righteous shall prosper like palm trees, Halleuliah And thrive like the cedars of-Lebanon; ( നി�തു�മ�ന്‍..)

In age they shall thrive and be flourishing, Halleuliah Yea, growing both fattened-and pleasing. BareakhmorShub’ho labo.... Men’ Olam...... O (................) as in heav’n, ( ഒര�പോ��ലി�ങ്ങും��)

Keep we here thy memory Hear us as we honor thee, Thy entreaties be our aid. Stoumen Kalos.... Kuriealayison


Bliss to the prophets, (ഭ�ഗ്യം'� നി�ബി�യര്‍ക്കും��)

And the apostles, And to the martyrs At resurrection. Barekhmor. Shub’holabo......

Those martyrs who longed (മശു�ഖതെയ കാ�ണ്‍മ�ന്‍)

For seeing the Christ By their death took wings, And fluttered to Heights Moriyo Rahe......

Plead for us, ye holy saints, (�ര�ശു�!ന്മാ�തെര നി�ങ്ങുംള്‍ )

Pray to Him whose will ye did, That from anger we be spared- That from scourges we be hid.


(Psalm 103:13)As doth a father his children love-Halleluiah (മക്കുംളി�ലിപ്പന്‍)

So doth the Lord love those who fear His name. The days of man are but as grass- Halleluiah He springs up like the herbs that-gorw in fields. (Psalm 103:15)Barekhmor. Shubhaholabo.... Men’olam...

They who served and died in hope, (ശുരണംത്തീ�പോലി നി�ന്‍കാ0�യ�ല്‍)

Trusting in thy mercy, Lord, May Thy living voice them raise From their graves to paradise Stomen Kalos- Kurielaison


Thine, O Lord, are both the worlds, (നി�ഥാ� തു�വകാമ�ര�പോലി�കാ� )

Here and there Thy Pow’r extends, Keep the living by Thy cross, By Thy grace absolve the dead.

Barekhmor. Shubhaholabo....

Praise we Thee who giveth life (സ്പോതു�പ്രതു� മ0തുജീ�വപ്ര��തെനി)

To those lying in the tombs; Praise the Father, Thee who sent, Praise the holy Spirit too

Moriyorahe......

May departed ones receive- (മരമതു�നി�യ�തെര കാര്‍ത്തീ�പോവ)

Who confessed the Trinity What was promised to the thief- Paradise with Thee, O Lord.


Deacon: Let us cry out and say Congregation: Worshipped and glorified is the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. Glory be to Him for ever and from ages unto ages. HalleluiahCelebrant: From Thy atoning altar, may remission descend to Thy servants, O Son of God, who came for our salvation and will come again for our resurrection and the restoration of our kind, forever. Congregation: Amen.


Communion

As the Holy Mysteries are brought down from the altar to the congregation for the Communion, Christ's second coming is foreshadowed and we are taught that at His coming in glory from heaven, we must stand in awe. As he turns from the altar, the celebrant holds the Mysteries with his hands crossed to signify that these are the united Body and Blood of the crucified Christ.


Celebrant: Stretch forth. O Lord, Thy invisible right hand, and bless this congregation of Your worshipers who have partaken of Thy precious Body and Blood for the absolution of their offences and for the forgiveness of their sins and for the confident stand in Your presence, our Lord and our God forever and ever.Congregation: Amen. Celebrant: May the mercy of the Great God and our Savior Jesus Christ be upon the bearers of these Holy Mysteries and upon those who offered them, and upon those who receive them, and upon those who labored and partaken of them. May the mercy of God be upon us and upon them in both worlds for ever and ever. Congregation: Amen.


Congregation: Lord have mercy upon us, Lord, spare us and have mercy, Lord, give heed and have mercy. Glory to thee and grace on us Halleluiah. Glory be to God on high, Exaltation to His mother, crown of praises to the martyrs, Grace and mercy to the dead, Halleluiah

Glory be to God on high. (സ്തു�തു� ദൈ�വത്തീ�ന്നാ�യരത്തീ�ല്‍ )

To His Mother honour be, To the martyrs crowns of praise, Grace and mercy to the dead. Halleluiah


Celebrant: Glory be to Thee, Glory be to Thee, Glory be to Thee our Lord and God forever, Moran Yeshu Meshiah let not Thy Holy Body which we have eaten and Thy atoning Blood, which we have drunk, may they not be for our condemnation and punishment but for the life and redemption of all of us. And have mercy upon us, O Lord.

(ഭ4വ�തെകാനിമ�ക്കും�� നി�തെന്നാ )

World shall kneel and worship Thee Every tongue shall praise Thy name Thou gives life to the dead. And good-hope, to those in the grave Halleluiah


Celebrant: We give thanks to Thee, O God and we praise Thy holy name. For Thou hast made us unworthy ones worthy of these divine gifts of the Body and Blood of Thine Only- begotten Son, To Thee we offer up glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving, for ever and ever. Congregation: Amen Celebrant: Peace be un to you allCongregation: And with thy spirit Deacon: After having received these holy mysteries that have been administered let us again bow down our heads before the merciful Lord. Congregation: Our Lord and Our God, we bow our heads before Thee.


Celebrant: Yeshu Meshiah our God, Who was sacrificed on our behalf by Thine own will and by the will of Thy Father and of Thy Holy Spirit, who made us eat Thy Holy Body and gave us to drink of Thy Atoning Blood, make us steadfast in Thy love. Fill us with the awe of Thee. Establish in us faith in Thee. Adorn us with blameless conduct. Forgive our sins, our own as also of our departed, so that in truth we may glorify Thee and the Father who begat Thee and Thy Holy Spirit, both now and for ever more.Congregation: Amen ….Barekhmor


Father full of compassion Ocean of mercy and grace Accept this Qurbana Which, we have offered unto Thee.

Bless us all o Our God Keep us all O Creater Show us the way of life Help and Lord all of us

(കാ�ഴ്ച്ചയതു�ല്‍ കാര്‍ത്തീ�പോവ)

This Qurbana this priest offered May it please Thy will O Lord By it may rejoice angels And absolver our departed


Final Blessing At the Final Blessing, the faithful are dismissed with the reassurance of our salvation in Christ and our commitment to Him through baptism, a reassurance extended not only to those present, but encompassing all who have been baptized into Christ, both near and far, living and departed. Sent forth in peace, the faithful are asked to pray for the priest always who will shortly take leave of the holy altar, after consuming the remaining portions of the Holy Mysteries, in the prayerful hope of returning to once again celebrate the Lord's Supper.


Celebrant: Depart ye in peace, our brethren and our beloved ones, as we commend you to the grace and mercy of the Holy and glorious Trinity, with the provisions and blessings which you have received from the atoning altar of the Lord! +Congregation: Amen Celebrant: Those who are far off and you who are near, the living and the departed, saved by the victorious + cross our Lord, and sealed with the sign of the Holy baptism, may the Blessed Trinity remit your debts and forgive your offences, and grant rest to the souls of your departed. Congregation: Amen Celebrant: And may I, a weak and sinful servant, be favored and helped by your prayers. Be glad and rejoicing, go in peace + and pray for us always.Congregation: Amen. May the Lord accept your offering and help us by your prayers.


Communion with the departed onesThe Church is the communion of all believers in the past , present, and future. Both the living and the departed are members of the church. A believer never dies.Jn.11:26. The departed ones stand around us like clouds today. Heb 12:1. They live 1 Pet 4:6. They speak Luke 9:30,31. They please God 2 Cor 5:8,9. They pray for the world. Rev 6:9,10. Death is not capable of separating us from the love of God. Rom 8:38. The departed Moses and Elijah are seen talking with Jesus Mt. 17:3. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effect. James 5:16. Prov 10:7, 1 Cor 6:2, Rev 2:26, Luke 16:27,28. The departed ones are alive in paradise. Luke. 23:43. St. Paul prayed for the departed Onesiphorous. 2 Tim 1:16-18 . We commemorate and unite in prayer with the departed ones who form the larger part of the Church.

www.orthodoxtv.in


Please Visit www.indianchristianity.org

www.orthodoxtv.in

www.orthodoxradio.us

1 a study of the eucharistic liturgy of the malankara orthodox church

Documents

offering of incense

word of god

jesus christ

order of offering

blood commanded jesus

liturgy of preparation

son of god

glorification of god