Holy Mysteries (Sacraments)

Holy Eucharist (Communion)

The central Mystery: bread and wine become the true Body and Blood of Christ through the Epiclesis (invocation of the Holy Spirit). Not merely symbolic: a real, mystical change. Communicants receive both Body and Blood together from a spoon. Preparation includes fasting, prayer, and confession.

Sources

St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Mystagogical Catecheses IV-V NPNF
St. John of Damascus, Exact Exposition IV.13 NPNF
St. Nicholas Cabasilas, A Commentary on the Divine Liturgy

Connections

Ecclesiology (Doctrine of the Church)
Fasting
For the Life of the World (Fr. Schmemann)
Holy Baptism
Holy Chrismation (Confirmation)
Holy Confession (Repentance)
Prosphora (Liturgical Bread)
St. John of Kronstadt (1829-1908)
St. Justin Martyr (c. 100-165)
The Didache (Teaching of the Twelve)
The Divine Liturgy
Theosis (Deification)

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