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The Third Tuesday of Pascha, Christos Anesti! Christ is Risen! Service of the Consecration of a Church (Part VI)

THE WASHING OF THE ALTAR TABLE Since the Altar Table represents the Tomb of Christ and His body lies therein. The Altar must undergo its own “Baptism” (washing) and “Chrismation” (anointing). Before washing and anointing the Altar Table the Bishop puts on a white linen garment called the Savanon. While the faithful kneel, the Bishop reads the prayer of Consecration. THE BISHOP: Blessed is our God always, now and ever and unto the ages of