The Prothesis: Preparing Holy Things for Holy People

Before the Divine Liturgy begins, a service called the Proskomedia is said at a Table of Preparation or Prothesis at the side of the altar, during which the Holy Gifts are prepared for Communion. As prayers are recited, the chalice is filled with wine and the Lamb, which will be consecrated as the Body of the Lord, is placed on the diskos. The prayers include commemorations from the faithful for loved ones both living and dead.