How to Benefit from the Holy Liturgy - Pope Kirillos Scientific Family

V In the Fraction the priest prays saying, "Blessed are You
O Christ, our almighty God, Saviour of Your
congregation, the perceptible word and the visible
man." This proves the equality of God the Son, to God
the Father, who is the first hypostasy in all qualities and
divine perfection.
The deacons says, "Amen, Amen, let us pray" warning the
congregation to pray in spirit and truth during these holy
moments, while kneeling down in reverence.
When you hear this response, lift your heart to God, my
beloved, ask Him for a life of repentance and forgiveness of
sins, and worthiness to partake of the Holy Communion. Ask
Him also for all your spiritual needs. The congregation says,
"Lord have mercy." This is said at the appropriate time, for
the whole situation represents the crucifixion of Christ, and
the shedding of His Holy Blood for the salvation of the
world. This situation presents the climax of divine mercy and
love for mankind. Let us grasp this valuable chance to ask
mercy from God, for this mercy was granted to us on His
crucifixion.
The priest gives peace to the congregation, without making
the sign of the cross on them saying, "Peace be with all",
giving peace here has a special significance, for at this
moment Christ was crucified, there was great confusion in
the world as the sun darkened, the earth quaked, rocks were
split and everyone was in fear and terror. But the priest gives
peace to the congregation and comforts their hearts amidst
these painful memories and terrifying disturbances. My
beloved, make the sign of the cross, and accept peace
together with all the congregation, from the Lord of peace
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