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HOLY COMMUNION
Also known as the Holy Eucharist.
Holy Communion is a Sacrament. Holy communion is the bread and wine consecrated on the altar during the Divine Liturgy, through the Power of the Holy Spirit and faith, and becomes the body and blood of Jesus; a miraculous event that is beyond human description.
Communion is based on the Lord's Last Supper whereby he offered his Disciples, the bread saying “This is my body which is broken for you ...” and then offering wine saying, "This is my blood which is shed f or you and the many others .... for the remission of sins"
The first necessary step in preparation of Holy Communion is: Confession (see paragraph on Confession in this booklet).
The second step is FASTING: (See paragraph on Fasting in this booklet). Especially for COMMUNION, fast for one or more days before you may receive Communion. Six hours before Holy Communion - no food, or drink, (water included).
The third step is: before going to Church for Communion, children ask their parents to pardon and forgive them for any bad actions, words, or conduct and the parents ask the pardon of their children.
The fourth step is to take the Antidoron which is a little cube of bread that the altar boy holds in his arms in an urn.
As you approach to receive communion, bless yourself (and say to, yourself) "God forgive me for my sins." Give your name to the Priest, place the red cloth under your chin and after you receive, wipe yourself, bless yourself again and quietly and orderly return to your seat for prayers of thanksgiving.
Orthodox Christians receive Holy Communion at least 4 times a year: Christmas, Easter, the Feast of the Apostles (June 29-30) and Feast of the Assumption (August 15th).
Communion should be received as often as the faithful feels the need as long as he is adequately prepared.
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by
Rev. Demetrios A. Recachinas, Protopresbyter
Booklet
& Web Version Designed by:
- Vicky
Andriotis
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- For
information about obtaining hard copies of this
booklet, please contact:
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- Holy
Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
4070 Park Avenue
Bridgeport CT 06604
Church Phone (203) 374-5561
Church Fax (203) 374-5770
E-mail: fatherdemetrios@ holytrinitybridgeport.org
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