Things Upon the Altar

These accesories are found on the altar (trapeza) at all times, and not 
only during the Liturgy.

1.	The Consecrated Board:
	without which the Liturgy cannot be performed (in case the altar 
	is not consecrated).  It is consecrated with the Holy Chrism,  
	i.e.,  devoted for the service.
	It symbolizes the tree of life whose fruits are for the healing of 
	the nations.

2.	The Cross:
	raised on Calvary (Golgotha),  on which the Lord is crucified for 
	our salvation.

3.	The Book of the Gospel:
	containing the four Gospels,  the Good News written for our 
	benefit.

4.	The Incense:
	ordered by God to Moses for worship,  offered by the Magies at the 
	birth of our Lord as a truthful representation of love.

5.	The Ark (the Throne):
	in which the Chalice containing the Logos (the Word of God) and 
	the True Manna is held,  the means of our salvation from the flood 
	of the world,  and also the Throne of God.

6.	The Fans (not found in many chuches now):
	symbolizing the Cherubim and the angels around the throne of God.

7.	The Two Candle-Stands:
	as the two angels in the tomb of the Lord at His head and His 
	feet,  reminding us to die with Him for the world,  be buried with 
	Him through the Baptism,  so that we can rise with Him from our 
	sins.