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

through the cross, He took us into His wonderful light, from
the darkness.
The priest makes the sign of the cross on the congregation
on all sides, three times inaudibly, then says the prayer of
‘God have mercy upon us,’ making the sign of the cross in
all four directions with the cross and the lit candles,
symbolising that Jesus Christ enlightened His people, who
live in all four corners of the earth, through the cross, saving
them from the darkness of sin and granting them eternal life.
During these rounds of the raising of incense, the
congregation say "Amen" three times, in humility, believing
that the priest’s prayers ask for mercy, blessings and
forgiveness.
The congregation then chant "Lord have mercy" three
times. It is a very beautiful tune that touches the heart and
soul, as the congregation cry for mercy and compassion.
Prayers using special tunes are heavenly music. The
struggling church on earth partake with those who carry the
golden harps in the victorious, heavenly church, before He
who is seated on the Throne.
Our fathers were so fond of the tune, "Evnoti-nay-nan" and
"Kyrie-lay-son" that one stated, "It is impossible that God
hears this marvellous tune without having mercy on His
people."
My beloved, recite with the priest inaudibly during Vespers,
"Lord have mercy upon us. Settle Your mercy upon us.
Have compassion on us. Bless us, guard us, help us. Take
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