The Eucharist- Offering of the Lamb
Offering of the Lamb:
The priest washes his hands three times before presenting the Lamb, as a sign of the purity that he ought to have when offering the oblations; this purity is also symbolized by his white garments. While washing his hands, he says: “I will wash my hands in innocence, and so I will go about Your altar, O Lord.”
The priest examines the Lamb to ensure that it is without blemish, as a symbol of Christ, the Holy One who is without blemish. Likewise, he examines the flask of wine, smelling it himself along with his fellow priest or the deacon, and they testify that it is good and noble.
The offering should be of the same day, soft, without cracks, and leavened.
The priest anoints with wine, making the sign of the cross over the Lamb offering and the rest of the presented offerings, while commemorating the accepted offerings of the fathers from Abel to Melchizedek.
Then he anoints the Lamb with water using his right hand and says: “Grant, O Lord, that our sacrifice may be acceptable before You, for my sins and the ignorances of Your people.”
The priest mentions whatever petitions and prayers he desires over the Lamb, so that it may carry them on our behalf. For the holiest time to present requests is the time of offering the oblations.
An article by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III – Al-Keraza Magazine – Year Eight (Issue Eight), 25-2-1977.
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