Liturgy (Liturgy of the Word (Part 1))

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his series on the Divine Liturgy by exploring the Liturgy of the Word, also called the Liturgy of the Catechumens. He explains the structure and symbolism of this part of the service, emphasizing its role in sanctification and spiritual transformation rather than just knowledge. Fr. Matthias details the processions of incense that represent St. Paul’s and the apostles’ missionary work, discussing the significance of the readings of the Pauline epistles, Catholic epistles, Acts of the Apostles, and the Synaxarion. He clarifies the liturgical order, the purpose of repeated prayers and chants, and the importance of physical presence in the liturgy for receiving the Holy Spirit’s work. The talk also covers the litany of the gospel, the Gospel reading, and the prayers that follow, highlighting how liturgical actions reflect biblical teachings and the church’s sacramental life.