The Structure of the Service of the Holy Qurbono

The Holy Qurbono, according to the Syro Malankara Catholic Rite, consists of three main parts. Each section encompasses profound symbolic and spiritual elements that reflect the depth of the Church’s liturgical tradition.

This section includes the vesting of the priest, the offering of Bread and Wine (Thuyobo), and the naming of the Intention of the Mass. These rites are performed within the sanctuary with the Holy Door closed (the veil drawn across), signifying the sacred nature of the preparation.

The Mass of the Catechumens is divided into four parts:

Adoration of Christ the King (Monogenes): This section focuses on venerating Christ as King.

Adoration of Christ the Prophet (Liturgy of the Word): The proclamation of Scriptures and Gospel.

The Entrance and the Adoration of the Blessed Trinity: The congregation honours the Holy Trinity through prayers and hymns.

The Church’s Profession of Faith (Credo): The Nicene Creed is recited as a declaration of faith. Note: At the conclusion of this section, the Catechumens are dismissed, marking their limited participation in the Holy Qurbono.

This part, known as the Adoration of Christ the High Priest-Victim, is the most solemn and central portion of the Holy Qurbono. It comprises several stages:

Part 1:

Preparation: The priest washes his hands as a sign of purification.

The Kiss of Peace: A liturgical gesture symbolising reconciliation and unity.

The Inclination (Bow): A sign of reverence and humility. Part 2:

The Prayer of the Cloud (Shoshopo): A prayer invoking God’s presence.

The First Blessing: A blessing bestowed upon the congregation.

The Sursum Corda: An invitation to lift hearts to the Lord.

The Preface: A prayer of thanksgiving and praise.

The Sanctus (Holy, Holy): A hymn of adoration. The Eucharistic Prayer:

The Institution Narrative (Consecration): The bread and wine are consecrated, becoming the Body and Blood of Christ.

The Anamnesis (Memorial): Remembering Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection.

The Epiklesis: The invocation of the Holy Spirit to sanctify the offerings. Intercessions and Blessings:

Prayer for the Communicants: A plea for the spiritual well-being of those partaking in the Eucharist.

The Diptychs (The Great Intercessions): Prayers for the living and the departed.

Prayer for a Happy Death: An intercession for a peaceful passing.

The Second Blessing: Another invocation of God’s grace. The Fraction:

Further Remembrance of the Passion: Breaking of the Eucharistic bread.

The Lord’s Prayer: Recitation of the prayer taught by Christ.

The Inclination and the Third Blessing: Acts of reverence and grace. Communion Rites:

Elevation of the Holy Mysteries: The celebrant lifts the consecrated elements, inviting the faithful to communion.

Communion with the Blessed Trinity: The faithful unite with the Trinity through the Eucharist.

Eucharistic Adoration and Communion of Saints: Reflection on the unity of the Church. The Communion:

The Priest’s Communion: The celebrant partakes in the Eucharist.

Eucharistic Procession and Benediction: The Blessed Sacrament is carried in procession and blessed.

Communion of the Faithful: The congregation receives the Eucharist.

Post-Communion Prayers: Thanksgiving prayers offered after Communion.

Final Supplication to Christ: Closing prayers seeking Christ’s continued blessings.

The Fourth Blessing: A final blessing for the faithful.

Private Prayers: Silent prayers offered by the celebrant.

Eulogia (Blessing of the Bread): A concluding blessing for the bread distributed to the faithful.