Church rituals in terms of the Divine Liturgy – incense – light

The lecture explains how the Coptic Orthodox Church prepares a person spiritually, mentally, and sensorially to participate in the Divine Liturgy through the rite of offering incense, readings, prayers, lights, and all preparations preceding Communion, emphasizing that participation in the holy mysteries requires deep preparation, not haste or formality.

1. The Importance of Preparation for the Divine Liturgy
The Divine Liturgy is not a sudden act but requires prior preparation from the individual (repentance, purity, calmness of mind) and from the Church that creates a complete spiritual atmosphere.

2. The Offering of Incense as Spiritual Preparation
The offering of incense is conducted during Vespers, Matins, and the Liturgy. It is not merely symbolic, but an act of worship and prayer that prepares the sanctuary, altar, and communicants.

3. Incense in the Holy Bible
Incense has existed since the Old Testament, had a special altar, and was offered continually before God. It is described as “Most Holy,” reflecting its great value before God.

4. The Spiritual Symbolism of Incense
A grain of incense burns and gives itself completely to produce a sweet aroma, teaching self-sacrifice, ascent upward, and the rising of prayers to God.

5. The Union of Divinity and Humanity
The union of fire and coal in the censer symbolizes the union of divinity and humanity in the Incarnation. The censer represents the womb of the Virgin, and the incense symbolizes the sweet fragrance of Christ.

6. Participation of the Senses in Worship
The Church engages all senses: incense for smell, light for sight, chanting for hearing, so that the person is nourished spiritually and physically.

7. Absolutions and Blessings Before the Liturgy
Those who attend from the beginning receive multiple absolutions and blessings, while those who arrive late miss these important spiritual preparations.

8. Readings as Preparation of the Mind
The readings in Vespers, Matins, and the Liturgy gradually move the person from worldly concerns to spiritual depth.

9. Reverence for the Gospel and the Word of God
The Gospel is honored with incense, candles, standing, and reverence, because God’s Word requires preparation and respect to bear fruit.

10. The Purpose of All the Rites
All these preparations lead the person to enter the Divine Liturgy with a prepared heart, a pure mind, and sincere love, in order to partake without condemnation.

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