|
Abba |
The Aramaic term of
intimacy used in addressing one's father, somewhat equivalent to the English
"Daddy." Christ uses Abba in addressing God the Father. St. Paul tells
believers that their relationship with God through the Holy Spirit is so
personal that they too may speak to Him as intimately as to their own father
(Mark 14:36; Rom. 8:15). |
|
Abbess |
The female superior of a
community of nuns appointed by a bishop; Mother Superior. She has general
authority over her community and nunnery under the supervision of a bishop.
|
|
Abbot |
From Aramaic abba,
father; Gr. Hegoumenos: The head of a monastic community or
monastery, appointed by archbishop or elected by the members of the
community. He has ordinary jurisdiction and authority over his monastery,
serving in particular as spiritual father and guiding the members of his
community. |
|
Absolution |
The prayer offered by a
bishop or presbyter for the forgiveness of sins. Following His glorious
Resurrection, Christ breathed on His Apostles and said, "Receive the Holy
Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you
retain the sins of any, they are retained" (John 20:22, 23). This gift of
proclaiming God's forgiveness of sins remains forever in the Church. It is
exercised in the sacraments of baptism and confession—the reconciliation to
the Church of Christian believers who have sinned and repented. The priest
or bishop is the witness who bears testimony to the repentance; only God
forgives sins |
|
Acolyte |
The follower of a priest; a
person assisting the priest in church ceremonies or services. In the early
Church, the acolytes were adults; today, however, his duties are performed
by children (altar boys). |
|
Advent |
A forty-day period of prayer,
repentance, and fasting in preparation for Christmas. The word stems from
the Latin word for "coming"; during the fast the faithful prepare for the
coming of Christ at Christmas. See also FASTING. |
| Aër |
The largest of the three
veils used for covering the paten and the chalice during or after the
Eucharist. It represents the shroud of Christ. When the creed is read, the
priest shakes it over the chalice, symbolizing the descent of the Holy
Spirit. |
|
Affinity |
The spiritual relationship existing between an individual
and his spouse's relatives, or most especially between godparents and
godchildren. The Orthodox Church considers affinity an impediment to
marriage. |
|
Afterfeast |
A period of time following
certain major feasts of the Christian year during which the feast continues
to be celebrated. The liturgical life of the Church reflects this extended
celebration by continuing to express the themes of the feast in the divine
services celebrated during the afterfeast. The afterfeast begins on
the day after the feast and concludes on the
leavetaking
of the feast. Accordingly, the period of the afterfeast varies from
commemoration to commemoration. Most
commemorations that have an afterfeast also have a
forefeast.
|
|
Agape |
(Greek "Love") Greek for the unconditional
love which God extends to His people. Feast of love; the common meal of
fellowship eaten in gatherings of the early Christians (1 Cor. 11:
20-34). Agape is also the name of the Easter Vespers
Service held in the early afternoon on Easter day. The
faithful express their brotherly love and exchange the
kiss of love honoring the resurrected Christ. Agape also designates a communal meal
connected to the Eucharist which was a practice of the early Church (1
Corinthians 11:20-34). |
|
Age of Reason. |
This is the time in life when an individual begins to
distinguish between right and wrong and becomes morally
responsible for himself. It is considered to begin at
the age of seven or so, and no later than twelve.
|
|
Agrapha |
(Gr. verbal words; not
written). Sayings or deeds of Christ which were never
written or recorded in the Gospels (
John 21:25). |
|
Akathist |
A hymn of praise comprised of twenty-four stanzas and
sung at the Salutation Services, dedicated to Virgin
Mary Theotokos. It is divided into four parts,
one part sung on each Friday of the Great Lent. On the
fifth Friday, the entire set is sung in commemoration of
a miracle by the Virgin in Constantinople (626 A.D.).
The hymn is also known as "Salutations" (Gr.
Heretismoi). |
|
Allegory |
A story filled with symbolism
illustrating a spiritual reality beyond the actual historical event being
described. In the ancient Church, scholars of the School of Alexandria
tended to consider many incidents in the Bible as allegorical, whereas the
School of Antioch practiced a more historical approach to Scripture.
Although Scripture contains some pure allegory (some parables of Christ,
portions of Revelation), overemphasis on allegory may tend to de-emphasize
or even deny the historicity of Holy Scripture. On the other hand, a denial
of allegory robs the Scriptures of their deeper meaning. It is possible for
a story to be both historical and allegorical. The majority of Church
Fathers combined both elements in interpreting the Bible. See Luke 15:4-7;
Galatians 4:21-26. See also TYPE. |
|
Alb |
The long white undergarment of the
clergy, with close sleeves, worn under the chasuble or
the sakkos. |
|
All-Saints
Sunday |
(Gr. Agion Panton). A feast day of
the Orthodox Church collectively commemorating all the
Saints of the church who have remained anonymous. This
feast day is celebrated on the Sunday following
Pentecost. |
|
Alleluia |
The Greek form of the Hebrew
word Hallelujah, which means "Praise God." Orthodox Christians sing a chorus
of Alleluia interspersed with psalm verses prior to the Gospel reading at
the Divine Liturgy. |
| Alms |
Works of mercy or monetary
gifts given to help the poor. Throughout the Scriptures, God's people are
called to help those less fortunate than themselves (see Matthew 25:31-46). |
|
Alpha and Omega |
The letters which begin and
end the Greek alphabet, and symbolize the beginning and the end. The Alpha
and the Omega is also used as a title of Christ (Revelations 1:8). |
|
Altar |
(Hebr. "a
place of sacrifice;" Gr. hieron; Sl.
prestol). In Orthodox architecture the term
signifies the area of the sanctuary divided from the
rest of the church by the iconostasis.
|
|
Altar Table |
(Gr.
Hagia Trapeza; Sl. Prestol). The
square table in the middle of the altar, made of wood or
marble, on which the Eucharist is offered. It is dressed
with the "Altar Cloth," and contains the relics
deposited there by the consecrating bishop. The center
of the table is occupied by the folded Antiminsion,
on which the ceremonial gospel book is placed, and
behind it is the tabernacle with the "reserved gifts."
|
| Amen |
"So be it" in Hebrew. Amen is
said or sung at the close of a prayer or hymn, showing the agreement of the
people to what has been said (Deuteronomy 27:15-26; 1 Corinthians 14:16). |
|
Analogion |
(Gr.-Sl.
analoy). A wooden stand or podium placed on the
right side of the soleas near the south door of
the altar. Usually with a sloped top, it is used as a
stand for the gospel book or icon. |
|
Anathema |
(Gr. a
curse, suspension). The spiritual suspension with which
the church may expel a person from her community for
various reasons, especially denial of the faith or other
mortal sins. The church also may proclaim an anathema
against the enemies of the faith, such as heretics and
traitors, in a special service conducted on the Sunday
of Orthodoxy (first Sunday of Lent). |
|
Anchorite |
.(Gr. Anachoritis, "a departurer"). A solitary
monk or hermit; an individual who withdraws from society
and lives a solitary life of silence and prayer.
|
|
Angels |
Bodiless powers created
before the creation of the physical universe. The English word "angel" comes
from the Greek word for "messenger." Throughout the Scripture, angels are
messengers who carry the Word of God to earth (e.g. Gabriel's visit to Mary,
Luke 1:26-38). The Orthodox Church teaches that there are nine "choirs" or
groups of angels: Angels, Archangels, Powers, Authorities, Principalities,
Dominions, Thrones, Cherubim, and Seraphim (see Genesis 3:24; Isaiah 6:2;
Ephesians 1:21; Colossians 1:16; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; 1 Peter 3:22). |
|
Annunciation |
The visit of the Archangel
Gabriel to the Virgin Mary to inform her that she had been chosen to bear
Christ, the Son of God. The Feast of the Annunciation is celebrated exactly
nine months before Christmas. Mary's Son was no ordinary child, but God's
divine Son and Word in human flesh (Isaiah. 7:14; Luke 1:26-38; John
1:1-14). |
|
Anti-Christ |
Literally, "against Christ"
or "instead of Christ." Antichrist is used by John to refer to
(a) the opponent of Christ who will arise at the end of this age, and
(b) the "many antichrists" who stand against the Son of God
(1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3). |
|
Antidoron |
(Gr. "instead of the gift"). A small piece of the altar
bread ( prosphoron) distributed to the faithful
after the celebration of the Eucharist. Originally it
was given to those who could not take communion, but it
became a practice for it to be offered to all the
faithful. |
|
Antimens or
Antiminsion |
(Gr. and Lat. compounds "in place
of a table;" Sl. Antimins). It is a rectangular
piece of cloth, of linen or silk, with representations
of the entombment of Christ, the four Evangelists, and
scriptural passages related to the Eucharist. The
antimens must be consecrated by the head of the
church (a Patriarch or Archbishop) and always lie on the
Altar Table. No sacrament, especially the Divine
Liturgy, can be performed without a consecrated
antimens. |
|
Antiphon |
(Gr.
"alternate utterance or chanting") A short verse from the
scriptures, especially the psalms, sung or recited in
the liturgy and other church services. Any verse or hymn sung or
recited by one part of the choir or chanters in response
to another part. |
|
Apocrypha |
(Gr.
"hidden or secret"). Some of the books of the Bible not
accepted by all denominations of Christians as true and
divinely inspired. Some of them were written much later
but attributed to important individuals of the apostolic
times, thus bearing a misleading title (pseudepigrapha).
|
|
Apodosis |
The "octave-day" of a feast day
which lasts more than one day and usually occurs eight
days after the actual feast day. The Apodosis
of Easter occurs after forty days, on the eve of the
Ascension. |
|
Apologetics |
(Gr.
"defenders"). The individuals and
saints who defended the faith and the Church by their
ability to present, explain, and justify their faith.
The theological science
and art of presenting, explaining and justifying the
reasonableness of the Christian faith. |
|
Apolytikion |
(Gr. "dismissal"). The dismissal hymn in honor of a
saint, Christ, or the Virgin Mary on the occasion of
their feast day, especially at the end of the Vespers
Service. |
|
Apostasy |
Literally, "turning away."
This sin is committed when a Christian or body of believers rejects the true
faith of Christ (1 Tim. 1:5-7; 4:1-3). |
|
Apostle |
Literally, "one who is sent."
Apostle is used as a title for the Twelve Disciples who formed the
foundation of the NT Church, replacing, symbolically, the twelve tribes of
Israel. In order to maintain this symbolism, Matthias was elected to replace
Judas (Acts 1:15-26). The word is also used of the Seventy (or 72) sent by
Christ, as well as of Paul, the repentant persecutor whom the risen Jesus
sent as "apostle to the Gentiles" (Romans 11:13). Great missionaries in the
Church, such as Mary Magdalene (the "apostle to the apostles"), Thekla, Nira,
Vladimir, and Innocent of Alaska are called "equal to the apostles." The
extension of the apostolic ministry in the Church today is in the
episcopacy. See also EPISCOPACY. |
|
Apostolic Canons |
A collection of eighty-five
decrees of ecclesiastical importance, referring mainly
to ordination and the discipline of the clergy. The
church believes that they were originally written by the
Apostolic fathers. |
|
Apostolic Fathers. |
Men who lived during the
first century of Christianity, for the most part the
disciples of the Apostles; their teachings and writings
are of great spiritual value to Christians. Major
fathers are St. Ignatius of Antioch, St. Polycarp of
Smyrna, St. Clement of Rome and the unknown author of
Didache. |
|
Apostolic Succession |
The direct, continuous,
and unbroken line of succession transmitted to the
bishops of the Church by the Apostles. The bishops, who
form a collective body (that is the leadership of the
Church), are considered to be successors of the
Apostles; and, consequently, the duties and powers given
to the Apostles by Christ are transmitted through "the
laying-on-of-hands" to the bishops and priests who
succeeded them by ordination (cheirotonia) to
priesthood. |
|
Archangels |
An Angelic order of angels of higher
rank. The names of two archangels, Michael and Gabriel,
are known (feast day on November 8); they are also known
as "leaders of the angelic armies" (taxiarchai). |
|
Archbishop |
A head bishop, usually in charge of a large
ecclesiastical jurisdiction or archdiocese (see
Metropolitan). |
|
Archdeacon |
A senior deacon, usually serving with
a bishop of higher rank (Archbishop or Patriarch). |
|
Archdiocese |
An ecclesiastical jurisdiction,
usually a metropolis headed by an Archbishop. |
|
Archimandrite |
(Gr. "head of the flock or
cloister"). A celibate presbyter of high rank assisting
the bishop or appointed abbot in a monastery. In the
Russian tradition some Archimandrites have the right to
wear the mitre and the mantle (mitrophoros). |
|
Armenian Church |
A monophysite denomination which
broke from the Orthodox Church in the fifth century (451
A.D.). Communities which belong to the Armenian Church
exist in the United States and other parts of the world. |
|
Artos |
The custom for a single loaf of blessed bread (Artos in
Greek), to lie before the Iconostasis throughout Bright Week in memory
of the Risen Lord, Jesus Christ, before it is shared among the whole
congregation. Depicted on the top of the Artos are either the symbol of
Christ’s victory over death – the Cross, surmounted by a crown of
thorns, or the icon of the Resurrection of Christ. On the first day of
Pascha, during the Holy and Divine Liturgy, after the Prayer Before the
Ambo, the Artos is blessed by a special prayer and sprinkling with the
Holy Water. Throughout Bright Week, at the end of the Holy and Divine
Liturgy, the Artos is carried around the church in solemn procession. On
the Saturday of Bright Week it is distributed as a blessing of the
Arch-Pastor (that is to say Christ) to the congregation (sometimes after
Sunday Holy and Divine Liturgy, on Saint Thomas Sunday). |
|
Ascension |
The ascent of Christ to
Heaven following His Resurrection as Son of God in the flesh (Luke 24:50,
51; Acts 1:9-11). Christ's Ascension completes the union of God and
humanity, for a Man who is God now reigns in Heaven. |
|
Asceticism |
(from Gr. askesis, "athlete")
A life of struggle—the crucifixion of the desires of the flesh, through a
life of prayer, fasting, and self-denial. Through asceticism the Christian
fights temptation to sin and thereby grows in spiritual strength. Such
spiritual classics as The Philokalia and The Ladder of Divine Ascent give
directions for the ascetic life (see Luke 9:23; Galatians 5:24). |
|
Ascetic |
(Gr. "one who practices [spiritual]
exercises"). Monks who have accepted a monastic life and
intensively practice self discipline, meditation, and
self-denial, motivated by love of God. |
|
Ascetic Theology |
A theological field studying
the teachings and the writings of the ascetics of the
Church (see also mysticism). |
|
Assumption or
Dormition |
A feast day (August 15) commemorating
the "falling asleep" (koimisis) of the Virgin
Mary. |
|
Asterisk |
(Gr. "little stars;" Sl. Zvezditsa).
A sacred vessel having two arched metal bands held
together in such a fashion as to form the shape of a
cross. It is placed on the paten and serves to prevent
the veil from touching the particles of the Eucharist. |
|
Atheism |
(Gr. "godlessness"). Denial of the
existence of God. An atheist accepts only the material
and physical world or what can be proven by reason. |
|
Atonement |
(Gr. exilasmos). The
redemptive activity of Christ in reconciling man to God.
The Orthodox believe that Christ, through His death upon
the cross, atoned or paid for human sins. |
|
Authority |
The rule of God over the
world and the legitimate authority given by God to those ordained to
shepherd the faithful (Hebrews 13:17). Also, one of the nine choirs of
angels. See also ANGELS. |
|
Autocephalous |
(Gr. "appointing its own leader").
The status of an Orthodox church which is self-governed
and also has the authority to elect or appoint its own
leader or head (cephale). |
|
Autonomy |
(Gr. "self-rule"). The status of an
Orthodox Church that is self-ruled. An autonomous church
is governed by its prelate, who is chosen by a superior
jurisdiction, usually by a patriarchate). |
|
Axios |
(Gr. "worthy"). An exclamation made at
ordination to signify the worthiness of the individual
chosen to become a clergyman. |
|
Baptism |
(from Gr. baptize, "to be
plunged") The sacrament whereby one is born again, buried with Christ,
resurrected with Him and united to Him. In baptism, one becomes a Christian
and is joined to the Church. In Christ's baptism, water was set apart unto
God as the means by which the Holy Spirit would bring to us new life and
entrance into the heavenly Kingdom (see article "Holy Baptism," at Romans 6;
Matthew 3:13-17; 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38, 39; Romans 6:3; Colossians
2:12; 1 Peter 3:21). |
|
Baptismal Font |
(see kolymbethra). |
|
Baptismal Garments |
(Gr. Fotikia or
baptisika; Sl. krizhma). The garments
brought by the godparent to dress the infant immediately
after the immersion in Baptism. In Orthodoxy, these
garments are considered sacred and must be either kept
safely or destroyed by fire. |
|
Baptismal Name |
(Gr. onoma). The
individual's name given in baptism, commonly the name of
a saint, who becomes the individual's Patron Saint. The
baptismal names of the first-born are usually those of
their grandparents. |
| Baptistry |
A special room or area in the form a
pool for baptizing in the ancient Church. Gradually it
was replaced by the baptismal font (see kolymbethra). |
|
Beatitudes |
(Gr. Makarismoi ). Blessings promised to
individuals for various reasons. The eight blessings given
by Christ at his Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5: 3-12). Salutation addressed to
an Orthodox Patriarch ("Your Beatitude"). |
|
Benediction |
(Lat.
"blessings to glorify God"). The closing blessing
offered by a clergyman at the end of a service or other
activity. |
| Bigamy |
(Gr. Digamia). The act of
contracting a new marriage while a previous one is still
binding, an act forbidden by the Orthodox Church. |
|
Bishop |
(Gr.
Episkopos, Archiereas). A clergyman who has
received the highest of the sacred orders. A bishop must
be ordained by at least three other bishops and is
considered a successor of the Apostles. |
| Blasphemy |
Evil and reproachful language directed
at God, the Virgin, the Saints or sacred objects. The
blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is a mortal and
unforgivable sin, because it presumes that God's saving
action in this particular case is impossible. (cf. Matt.
12: 31). |
|
Burial |
(Gr. Taphe; Sl. Pogrebeniye).
The act of interment of the dead body of one of the
faithful in consecrated ground, according to the
appropriate Orthodox rites and service of burial (Nekrosimos).
The Church may deny an Orthodox burial to those who have
committed a mortal sin such as blasphemy, suicide,
denial of faith, or acceptance of cremation. |
| Byzantine |
Referring or attributed to Byzantium,
the ancient Greek city on the Bosporus, which later (331
A.D.) became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire,
and then of the Medieval Greek Empire of Constantinople.
Its people are known as Byzantines and its cultural
heritage as Byzantine (i.e., Byzantine art, the Empire,
church, architecture, music, etc.). |
|
Byzantine Rite |
Performing church
services according to the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Christians who belong to
Roman Catholic jurisdictions and accept its beliefs, but
follow the customs of the Greek Orthodox Church,
celebrating the liturgy in Greek, Slavonic or in their
native language, but in the Orthodox fashion. |
|
Calendar |
(Gr.
Hemerologion). The yearly system determining the
Orthodox holidays and hours. The Orthodox year begins on
September 1. Since all feasts were arranged according to
the Julian (old) Calendar, many Orthodox churches follow
it to the present day, while other Orthodox churches
have adopted the Gregorian (new) Calendar (since 1924).
See also the article on the Calendar of the Orthodox
Church. |
|
Candles |
(Gr. Keri[on]). Candles made of beeswax are used in the
Orthodox Church as a form of sacrifice and devotion to God or Saints.
They are used in various Orthodox services and ceremonies and are
symbolic of Christ, who is "the Light of the World." According to a
different symbolism, the two elements of a candle represent the two
natures of Christ: the Divine (the burning wick) and the Human (the wax
body). |
|
Canon |
(Gr. "rule, measure, standard").
The Canon of the
scriptures or the official list of books recognized by the church as
genuine and inspired by God. The Canon of Matins (a collection of hymns
consisting of nine odes, the Heirmos, and sung at the Matins Service,
the Orthros). The Liturgical Canon which refers to all liturgical
material, including the Creed, used for the Liturgy and the consecration
of the Eucharist. (see also kanon and Typikon).
|
|
Canonization |
The official declaration by the Church that a deceased Christian of
attested virtue is a saint, to be honored as such, and worth of
imitation by the faithful. |
Canons
or
Canon Law |
The law of the church,
containing the various rules, ecclesiastical decrees and definitions
concerning the faith or the life style of Orthodox Christians. The
Canons generally provide for all administrative or disciplinary
questions that might arise in the Church, and, consequently, are not
infallible but can be changed or re-interpreted by an Ecumenical
Council. See also the article on the Canon Law of the Orthodox Church. |
|
Capital Sin
or Mortal Sin or Deadly Sin |
Great offenses against God, or moral faults which, if
habitual, could result in the spiritual death of the individual. The
following sins are considered to be mortal: pride, covetousness, lust,
anger, gluttony, envy and sloth: they are the "Seven Deadly Sins" of the
phrase. |
|
Cassock |
(Gr. Raso; Sl. ryassa). The long black garment with
large sleeves worn by the Orthodox clergy as their distinct attire.
Another such cassock with narrow sleeves (Gr. Anteri; Sl.
Podrasnik) is worn under the cassock. It symbolizes the death of a
clergyman to this world, and his burial and subsequent dedication to God
and his heavenly kingdom. |
|
Catechism |
A summary of doctrine and instruction, teaching the Orthodox faith in
the form of questions and answers. The catechetical or Sunday school of
each parish is responsible for such instruction of children or other
faithful. |
|
Catechumen |
(Gr. "those who learn the faith"). A convert to Christianity in the
early church, who received instructions in Christianity, but was not yet
baptized. Catechumens were permitted to attend the first part of the
Eucharist (Liturgy of the Catechumens), but were dismissed before the
Consecration of the Gifts. |
|
Cathedral |
(Gr. "the main chair"). The principal church of a bishop's jurisdiction,
the chief church in every diocese. |
|
Catholic |
(Gr. "universal, concerning the whole;" Sl. Sobomaya). A term
describing the universality of the Christian message, claimed to be
exclusively theirs by the Orthodox Church. However, in the West, it has
come to mean the Roman Catholic church (v. Eastern Orthodox Church). |
|
Celibacy |
The unmarried state of life. Unlike the Roman Church, Orthodoxy permits
a clergyman to be married; however, his marriage must occur before the
ordination to a deacon or presbyter. Orthodox bishops are only chosen
from the celibate clergy, but widowers, who have accepted monastic vows,
may also be chosen. |
|
Censer |
(Gr. Thymiato; Sl. kadillo). A metal vessel hung on
chains, used in church ceremonies for burning incense. There are twelve
small bells attached to the chains, representing the message of the
twelve Apostles. |
|
Chalice |
(Gr. Potirion; Sl. Vozduh). A large cup of silver or
gold, with a long-stemmed base, used for the Eucharist. It is one of the
most sacred vessels of the church and is handled only by the clergy. |
|
Chancellor |
(Gr. Protosyngelos). The chief administrator and church notary
in a diocese or archdiocese. He is the immediate administrative
assistant to the bishop, and handles all records, certificates, and
ecclesiastical documents of his jurisdiction. |
|
Chant |
(Gr. echos; Sl. glas). The music proper to the
Orthodox services. There are eight tones or modes in the Orthodox
Byzantine chant, chanted by the chanters or cantors. |
|
Chanter |
(Gr. Psaltis). A lay person who assists the priest by chanting
the responses and hymns in the services or sacraments of the church.
Today chanters have been replaced to some extent by choirs. |
|
Chapel |
(Gr. Parekklisi[on]; Sl. Chasovnya). A side altar
attached to a larger church or a small building or room built
exclusively or arranged for the worship of God. A chapel can belong
either to an individual, an institution, or can be part of a parish
church. |
|
Chasuble |
(Gr. feloni[on]; Sl. felon). A sleeveless garment worn
by the presbyter in the celebration of the liturgy. Short in
front, with an elongated back, and an opening for the head, it is one of
the most ancient vestments of the Church, symbolizing the seamless coat
of Christ. |
|
Chatjis |
(see Hatjis). |
|
Cherubic Hymn |
(Gr. "the song of the angels"). Liturgical hymn sung after the
Gospel-reading and during the Great Entrance. Its text in English is as
follows: "We,
who mystically represent the Cherubim, And chant the thrice-holy hymn to
the Life-giving Trinity, Let us set aside the cares of life That we may
receive the King of all, Who comes invisibly escorted by the Divine
Hosts."
|
|
Chrism |
(Gr. Myrron). Sanctified oil composed of several ingredients
and fragrances, used in the sacrament of Chrismation (after Baptism).
The Holy Chrism in the Orthodox Church is exclusively prepared by the
Ecumenical Patriarchate, blessed
in a series of preparations and ceremonies. Holy Thursday is customarily
the day of its consecration. |
|
Chrismation |
(see Baptism and Chrism).
See also the articles
on:
The Sacraments
The Sacramental Life of the Orthodox Church |
|
Chrisom |
(Gr. Ladopano; Sl. knzhma). A piece of white linen for
the wrapping of the infant after Baptism. The Orthodox preserve it as a
sacred object, since it signifies the purity and holiness of the
baptized Christian. |
|
Christology |
A subject or field of
dogmatic theology examining the
belief of the church and the history of beliefs about Christ. |
|
Churching |
(Gr. Sarantismos). A service of thanksgiving and blessing of
women after childbirth. In the Orthodox church, this rite is performed
on the fortieth day after birth and is reminiscent of the Old Testament
ceremony of purification (Lev. 12: 2-8) and the presentation of Jesus at
the Temple (Luke 2: 22-29). |
|
Communion |
(Gr. koinonia). The receiving of the sacrament
of the
Eucharist after proper
preparation, fasting, and confession. Orthodox Christians are encouraged
to receive communion as often as possible, even daily.
See also the article on
The Holy Eucharist |
|
Communion of Saints |
The Orthodox Church believes that all the people of God -
members of the Church, either the living on earth or the departed in
heaven, are in constant communion and fellowship with each other in
faith, grace and prayers, since they constitute one Body in Christ - the
Church. |
|
Compline |
(Gr. Apodeipnon; Sl. Velikoye PovecheAye). A woship
service performed after dusk. It is often combined with Vespers, to form
an all-night vigil. There is a Great Compline and its abridgement, known
as Little Compline. |
|
Confession |
(Gr. Exomologisis). The act of confessing or acknowledgment of
sins by an individual before God in the presence of a priest, who serves
as a spiritual guide and confessor (pneumatikos) authorized to
ask for forgiveness and to administer a penance. |
|
Confessor |
Pneumatikos (see confession). A person who defended and
publicly confessed the Faith, thereby exposing himself to persecution (Homologetis).
|
|
Consecration |
(Gr. Heirotonia). The ordination of an individual to priesthood
through the sacrament of Holy Orders. |
|
Consecration of a
Church |
(see
Engainia). |
|
Crosier |
(Gr. Ravdos or Pateritsa). The pastoral staff of a
bishop, signifying his responsibilities and the authority by which he
spiritually rules his flock. |
|
Crowns |
(Gr. Stephana). A metal crown or wreath made of cloth in the
shape of lemon blossoms, with which the priest "crowns" the newlyweds
during the sacrament of Matrimony. The crowns are white, signifying
purity, and represent the power that is given to the newlyweds to become
"king and queen" of their home. |
|
Deacon |
(Gr. "assistant, servant").
The fist of the three orders of priesthood. A deacon is not permitted to
perform the sacraments, but assists the bishop and the presbyter in the
Eucharist and other services or ministries of the church. |
|
Deaconess |
A pious lay woman assisting in the church as a caretaker or charity
worker. The practice of using deaconesses in the Church was very
ancient; however, it gradually disappeared. |
|
Dean |
(Gr. Proistamenos). An honorary title given to a presbyter;
meaning: the
senior priest in a cathedral of a diocese; the senior priest in a large
parish;the head of the faculty in a theological seminary. |
|
Dikirotrikera |
(Gr. "set of two and three candles"). A set of two candleholders, one
double-branched candlestick and another triple-branched, both used by
the bishop in blessing at the liturgy. The Dikeron (double
candleholder) signifies the two natures of Christ, while the
Trikeron (triple candleholder) signifies the Holy Trinity. |
|
Diocese |
(Gr. Episkopi). A town or fully organized church district under
the ecclesiastical jurisdiction and pastoral direction of a bishop. |
|
Diptychs |
(Gr. "folding boards"). Lists of names for living and dead, written on
cardboard for their commemoration in the liturgy. An official roster of
the names of the heads of Orthodox jurisdictions read during the liturgy
by concelebrating bishops, or the head of an ecclesiastical
jurisdiction. |
|
Dismissal |
(Gr. Apolysis; Sl. Otpust). The closing prayers and
benediction, including the dismissal hymn (Apolytikion) in
church service. |
|
Dogma |
Basic beliefs and truths contained in the Bible and the Holy Tradition
of the Church as defined by the Ecumenical Councils and the Fathers of
the Church. Dogma is studied by the field of
dogmatic theology. |
|
Dormition |
(see assumption). |
|
Eagle |
.
(Gr. Dikephalos aitos; Sl. Orletz). Small circular rug
or permanent design on the church's floor, presenting a double headed
eagle with outstretched wings soaring over a city. It signifies the
watchfulness and authority of the bishop over his diocese. The
double-headed eagle was also the symbol of the Byzantine Empire. |
|
Easter |
(Gr. Pascha or Lambri). The feast day of the
resurrection of Christ, known also as "the Feast of Feasts." It is the
greatest Orthodox festival, celebrated the Sunday following the first
full moon after the Spring equinox. It is a movable feast and the dates
of the other movable feasts of the Orthodox Church are calculated from
it. |
|
Ecclesia |
(Gr. "the gathering of the people"). The gathering of the faithful at
the church for worship and fellowship; the church where the liturgy is
celebrated; the Church as the Body of Christ. |
|
Ecclesiastical |
Whatever deals or pertains to Church and its life. |
|
Ecclesiology |
The branch of theology studying the nature, constitution, function, and
membership of the Church. |
|
Ecumenical Council |
(Gr. Synodos; Sl. Sobor). Assembly of
representatives from all church jurisdictions convoked for the
settlement of ecclesiastical or doctrinal problems and disputes. The
Orthodox Church recognizes the following seven Ecumenical Councils:
Nicaea, in 325. Fathers present,
318. Condemned Arianism, defined divinity of Christ, and composed first
part of Creed.
Constantinople, 381. Fathers,
180. Condemned Apollinarianism, defined divinity of Holy Spirit, and
completed the Creed.
Ephesus, 431. Fathers, 200.
Condemned Nestorianism and defined the term Theotokos.
Chalcedon, 451. Fathers, 630.
Condemned Monophysitism.
Constantinople, 553. Fathers,
165. Condemned heretics and pagans.
Constantinople, 680. Fathers,
281. Condemned Monothelitism. The so-called Quinisext or in
Trullo was held in Constantinople.
Constantinople (Trullo),
692 and regulated disciplinary matters to complete the Fifth and the
Sixth Ecumenical Councils.
Nicaea, 787 (again in 843).
Fathers, 350. Condemned Iconoclasm. |
|
Ecumenical Patriarchate
|
The "First Among Equals" of all the Orthodox
autocephalous churches and was founded by St. Andrew the Apostle.
Visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate of
Constantinople home page for more information, historical
notes, encyclicals, official documents, and photo and video galleries. |
|
Ecumenism |
The movement of Christian Churches toward a mutual understanding of
their problems and the concept of unity and love willed by Christ. |
|
Ektenial |
(Gr. 'long" or "elongated"). Petitions or litanies used in Orthodox
services, particularly in the liturgy. They refer to the world in
general, peace, leadership and those in need. The response to an
ektenial petition is: "Lord have mercy" |
|
Encyclical |
(Gr. "moving in a circle"; "circulating"). A letter by the head of an
Orthodox jurisdiction (Archbishop or Patriarch) to those under his
spiritual authority. The content of such a letter may vary but it must
refer to specific administrative or spiritual topics concerning the
faithful. |
|
Engainia |
(Gr. "blessing for renewal"). The ceremony of consecration of a new
church, conducted only by a bishop. It is performed before the
Eucharist, and it mainly consists of the washing of the Holy Table of
the altar, the depositing of relics in it, and the blessing of the
church icons. |
|
Engolpion |
(Gr. "upon the chest"). The bishop's medallion, usually of enamel and
richly decorated with precious stones, hanging upon his chest and
signifying his episcopal office. |
|
Entrance |
(Gr. Eisodos). The solemn procession of the celebrating clergy
carrying the Gospel at the liturgy, after the antiphons (Small
Entrance), and carrying the Holy Gifts during the chanting of the
cherubic hymn (Great Entrance). |
|
Epanokaly-mafko |
The monastic black veil hanging over the back of the kalymafki
of a celibate Orthodox clergyman, especially the prelate of a church
(see kalymafki). Some Orthodox prelates of Slavic background
wear white epanokalymafko. |
|
Eparchy |
(Gr. "province, region"). An ecclesiastical jurisdiction headed by a
bishop, metropolitan, or archbishop. |
|
Epigonation |
(Gr. "on the knee;" Sl. Palitsa or Nabedrennik). An
oblong or rhomboidal vestment (approx. 12 x 12 inches) suspended from
the belt and hung over the right side above the knee of a clergyman of
higher rank. It signifies the cloth used by Christ to wipe his
disciples' feet before the Last Supper and also the sword of the Spirit,
which is the Word of God. |
|
Epiklesis |
(Gr. Epiklesis) Special prayer or petition by the Priest to
"invoke" or to call upon the Holy Spirit, in order that God's Grace will
descend for the consecration of the Holy Gifts at the Eucharist. |
|
Epiphany |
(Gr. Theophania; Sl. Bogoyavleniye). The feast
commemorating the baptism of Christ in the Orthodox Church (January 6),
and celebrating the ''manifestation'' of God in the Holy Trinity. |
|
Episkopos |
(see bishop). |
|
Epitaphios |
(Gr. "on the tomb;" Sl. Plaschanitsa). The winding sheet on
which the dead body of Christ is sewn or painted, representing his
shroud. An ornamented bier representing the tomb of Christ. On God
Friday the Epitaphios is placed on the bier, which is adorned with
flowers, and is carried in a procession representing the funeral of
Christ. The special service on Holy Friday evening commemorating the
burial of Christ. |
|
Epitrachelion |
(Gr. "about the neck"). One of the most important vestments hanging from
the neck down to the feet. An Orthodox priest must wear this particular
vestment to perform a sacrament. |
|
Equal to the Apostles |
(Gr. Isapostolos). An honorary title given to saints such as
Saint Constantine and Saints Cyril and Methodios for their missionary work
in the Church. |
|
Eschatology |
(Gr. "the last things to happen). The theological field concerned with
life after death, especially the 'last things," i.e., the state of the
dead, the Second Coming of Christ, and the Final Judgment.
See also the Article on
The Dogmatic Tradition of the Orthodox
Church |
|
Eucharist |
(Gr. koinonia). The receiving of the sacrament
of the
Eucharist after proper
preparation, fasting, and confession. Orthodox Christians are encouraged
to receive communion as often as possible, even daily.
See also the article on
The Holy Eucharist |
|
Euchologion |
(Gr. "the book of prayers;" Sl. Sluzhebnik). A liturgical book
used by the clergy, containing the various services, sacraments and
prayers required for the administration of sacraments and other
ceremonies and services of the Church. |
|
Evangelists |
The authors of the Gospels (Evangelia) who, according to Church
belief, were inspired by God in the writing of the Bible. The
Evangelists are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. In the Orthodox Church
they are symbolically represented by a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle
respectively. |
|
Exaposteilarion |
(Gr. "dispatching'). A special hymn sung at Matins after the Canon. It
refers to Christ's activity after the Resurrection, particularly His
dispatching of the disciples to preach to the world. |
|
Exapteryga |
(Gr. "six-winged angels"). Metallic banners adorned with representations
of angels carried at various processions of church services. |
|
Exarch |
(Gr. "representative with full authority"). The head of an
ecclesiastical jurisdiction, usually an Archbishop, representing the
head of the Church (i.e., Patriarch) in the administration of a national
Church. |
|
Excommunication |
(Gr. Aphorismos). A penalty or censure by which a baptized
individual is excluded from the communion and fellowship of the Church,
for committing and remaining obstinate in certain mortal sins. Church
members may excommunicate themselves by absence from the sacraments and
by actions contrary to Church law. |
|
Exorcism |
See the article on
exorcism in the Orthodox Church. |
|
Fanar |
The Greek neighborhood of Constantinople (Istanbul) where the
|
