The Mysteries of the Church
Main idea
The church mysteries are a secret grace given to a person through an outward act (a rite) performed by the servant of the mystery. This grace is a gift from the Holy Spirit, not a human action. The outward acts — such as immersion in baptism or the laying on of hands and anointing — are visible means used to obtain the grace, while the real effect is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Spiritual and educational dimension from a Coptic Orthodox perspective
- The mysteries show how God chooses to grant salvation “by visible ways” through sacred means and rites, based on the merits of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
- Each mystery involves a sacramental material (water, oil, bread and wine…) and a specific rite, and the material is a channel for the Holy Spirit’s work.
- The priest or bishop is the “servant of the mystery” and God’s agent; he prays and performs the rite, but the grace comes from the Holy Spirit.
- The mysteries give forgiveness of sins, a new birth, and participation in the Holy Spirit and capacities for spiritual service (such as priesthood and binding and loosing).
- The use of oil (myron and anointing oil) symbolizes the work of the Holy Spirit, blessing, and holiness, and is used in different ways (sanctifying the baptismal water, anointing the person in chrismation and unction).
- Laying on of hands has types: laying on of hands to grant priestly authority, laying on of hands for healing, and laying on of hands for blessing; the formula and accompanying rite determine the meaning.
- The importance of repentance and confession: some mysteries require prior repentance and confession so that God may accept the grace, especially for adults.
Short conclusion
The mysteries are not empty rituals but living channels of God’s grace by which the Church works for the salvation of believers. The Holy Spirit is the true worker, and the priesthood acts as an agent who conveys this grace through specific rites inherited from the apostles and the fathers.
Grace
Spirit
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