Communion is one of the great Sacraments of the Orthodox Church. It strengthens the spiritual strength of Christians, heals mental ailments and testifies to the unity of the believer with the church. It is interesting that in the first centuries, when Christianity was just becoming a religion, a baptized person who did not start Communion at the prescribed intervals was excommunicated from the church and ceased to be considered a believing Christian.
Instructions
Step 1
It is necessary to properly prepare for the communion of the Holy Mysteries of Christ. For at least three days before the sacrament, observe the fast, not eating fast food, and refrain from entertainment and pleasure. Take this time to meditate on the sins you will have to confess on the eve of communion.
Step 2
The day before Communion, attend the evening service, during the evening prayer and in the morning read the prayer book, namely the Follow-up to Holy Communion. On the eve of communion - in the evening and in the morning - you must neither eat, nor drink, nor smoke.
Step 3
Adults and children over seven years of age must confess before communion. Usually confession in the church begins before the liturgy. On the morning of the sacrament, come to the temple before the start of the service. The rite of communion itself takes place after the liturgy. If you confessed, repented of your sins, and they were released to you, then you were allowed to take the sacrament.
Step 4
Come to the pulpit - this is an elevated place in front of the iconostasis. A priest stands on it with a tray and a Chalice. Let the children and men go ahead, who should be the first to receive communion. Cross your arms across your chest, and clearly state your Christian name. Reverently drink wine from the Chalice (the Blood of Christ) and take the soaked bread (the Body of Christ), immediately swallowing it. Kiss the lower part of the Chalice, go to the table where the clergy distribute small prosphora and wine diluted with hot water ("warmth") to all those who received the Holy Communion.
Step 5
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, the priest will bring out a cross, to which you should touch your forehead and lips. Now you can leave the church.
Step 6
After the sacrament on this day, if possible, do not engage in everyday conversations, do not engage in everyday affairs and work, devote the day of the sacrament only to godly deeds, watching spiritual films, reading spiritual books, helping loved ones, and deeds of mercy.
