The church is the house of God

The lecture explains the comprehensive meaning of the Church in the Coptic Orthodox faith, not only as a sacred building, but as the house of God, the dwelling place of angels, the community of believers, and a spiritual temple where God dwells, with detailed symbolic explanations of church structure, the sanctuary, rituals, and reverence.

1. The Church as the House of God and Prayer
The Church is called the house of God, the house of prayer, and the house of angels, because it is the place of God’s presence and angelic fellowship.

2. Reverence and Respect for the Church
The Church is a holy place that must be approached with awe and reverence, without disorder or improper behavior, as it is “the gate of heaven.”

3. The Church as an Image of Heaven
Church domes and lights symbolize heaven; the lights represent angels or the saints who shine like stars.

4. Old Testament Symbols of the Church
The Church resembles the Tabernacle, symbolizing pilgrimage in the world, and Noah’s Ark, through which souls were saved from destruction.

5. Naming Churches after Saints
Churches are named after saints because of belief in intercession and for distinction, following a biblical tradition.

6. The East and the Sanctuary
The sanctuary is located in the east, symbolizing light and Christ the Sun of Righteousness, and only altar servants may enter it.

7. The Altar and Its Consecration
The altar symbolizes the Cross of Christ, and the divine sacrifice may only be offered upon it after consecration with holy Myron.

8. The Church as the Community and the Spiritual Temple
Each believer is a small church and a temple of God, and together believers form the universal Church, which is also understood as a priestly authority.

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