Priesthood

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this module is to teach seventh graders about the details and symbolism of various aspects of the church. The students will learn about how all features and details that are found in the church, such as the vessels, architecture, hymnology, iconography, etc., have deep spiritual meanings beyond what we can observe with our senses. When we understand the symbolism of the details, we are able to appreciate the traditions of our church. This lesson will focus on Priesthood: The Sacrament, its Ranks, and Vestments.

INTRODUCTION - 5 Minutes

As we have learned in this module so far, each aspect of our church is very symbolic and carries a teaching of our faith. This applies to the sacrament of priesthood. Orthodox Christians believe that the priesthood of the church is Christ's priesthood, with the Eucharist as the first-fruit offering. The clergy do not serve in place of Christ; rather Christ Himself serves in them. Additionally, the special vestments worn by deacons, priests, monks and nuns have special colors and designs that are based on biblical references.

We will begin with an overview of the roles and ranks of priesthood, followed by a discussion of vestments and their symbolism.

Relevant passages from the Holy Bible will be found throughout the lesson.

THE SACRAMENTAL MYSTERY OF THE PRIESTHOOD - 15 minutes

The Sacrament of Priesthood is the Holy Sacrament by which the Bishop lays his hand on the elected candidate in order for the Holy Spirit to descend on this person to grant him one of the priestly ranks. As a result, the ordained person is granted the authority to perform the ministry of the Church, whether the Holy Sacraments, teaching or others. This process is called "Ordination."

Our Lord Jesus Christ instituted this Sacrament when He chose the twelve disciples and consecrated them for ministry, "He called His disciples to Him, and from them He chose twelve whom He also named apostles" Luke 6:13
He gave them the authority of absolution and binding, "He breathed on them, and said to them, '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
Notice that this took place before the Pentecost and the gift of the Holy Spirit here is the gift of ordination. Only to them He said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19) and only to them He delivered the mystery of His Body and Blood (The Eucharist).

Roles and Ranks of Priesthood

Briefly outlined below are the Roles and Ranks of Priesthood and examples of how Our Lord Himself practiced the roles of each. It is important to remember that, as a deacon, priest, or bishop performs their roles and responsibilities, they are imitating Christ.

The Chanter (Epsaltos): Required to learn and sing the Church hymns. Lord Jesus Christ sung a hymn with His disciples before going to Gethsemane, "And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives" (Matthew 26:30)
The Reader (Anagnostos): Their role is to read the Holy Scriptures in Church during the Liturgy. Our Lord practiced the work of the reader when He went in the synagogue and stood up to read (Luke 4:16)
Subdeacon (Epideacon): The most important role is keeping the Church organized. The Lord did the same when He drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple (Matthew 21:12)
Deacon: One of the duties of the Deacon is to pour water for the priest to wash his hands upon the start of the Mass. Our Lord poured water into a basin and washed the disciples' feet (John 13:5)
Priest (presbyter): The main work of the priest is to sanctify the bread and wine during the Holy Liturgy and to give communion to the congregation. The Lord did the same on Covenant Thursday (Mark 14:22-26)
Hegomen: The role of the Hegomen is to provide for the Church services. Our Lord did the same, for when He said to Judas "What you do, do quickly" (John 13:27) the disciples thought that since Judas had the money box, the Lord had asked him to buy food for the feast or to give to the poor (John 13:29)
Bishop: The bishop is the shepherd of the flock. St. Peter refers to our Lord as the shepherd and overseer of our souls (1 Pet 2:25) and the Lord said about Himself, "I am the Good Shepherd" (John 10:14)
Patriarch (pope): Only the Pope can ordain Bishops. Our Lord breathed on His apostles and gave them the authority to bind and loose sins (John 20:22-23)

VESTMENTS - 25 minutes

For this section, please refer to the attached presentation below and use a screen/device to display the slides. If a screen is not available, slides can be printed prior to the lesson.

ACTIVITY - 5 Minutes

Please refer to the review/quiz section at the end of the attached presentation below.

APPLICATION (Action) - 5 Minutes

Prestily and monastic garb is distinct and countercultural. What are some ways that we can dress and act that will show the world that we are followers of Christ?
Liturgical vestments have much symbolism in both the style and colors. How can we meditate on these beautiful meanings during liturgy?

CONCLUSION - 5 Minutes

By learning about the traditions and symbolism in our Church, we can appreciate the rich history of our Coptic heritage. We should meditate on all of the symbolism of the vestments during the liturgy. We must seek to be distinct in our Christian lifestyle so that the world can see that we are followers of Christ. Remember to always pray for all the clergy, monks and nuns in our church, and that we are clothed in His goodness, righteousness and grace.

RESOURCES

PARENTS CORNER/HOMEWORK

If your children are deacons or deaconesses, encourage them to dress every week, or to be ordained/consecrated if they are not. Remind them that they will wear white like the angels and praise God like the angels do.