Catechism

1. (a) Catechism

Book 1 · questions 1–2

• 1What does the word catechism mean?
• 2What is the purpose of a catechism (teaching through questions and answers)?

1. (b) The Coptic Catechism Through the Ages

Book 1 · questions 3–4

• 3How did the Church preserve the correct faith through the ages?
• 4What are the stages of development of Coptic Catechism through the ages?

2. The Basic Principles of Catechism

Book 1 · questions 5–6

• 5What are the basic principles of catechism in the Coptic Orthodox Church?
• 6What are the most important practical principles of catechism?

3. Faith That Works Through Love

Book 1 · questions 7–38

• 7What is faith?
• 8What is the importance of faith for unbelievers?
• 9Is it necessary to believe in the existence of God?
• 10Do we challenge the devil by faith?
• 11How was Abraham, the father of the fathers, armed?
• 12How was Peter armed while on the water?
• 13Did God send the law to prepare us to believe in it?
• 14Does faith abolish the gift of reason?
• 15What does faith ask of the Lord Christ?
• 16What did Moses ask of God in his first meeting with Him when He called him to serve?
• 17Why is God called Theos?
• 18Why do some people reject faith?
• 19How do we win those who reject the faith?
• 20Is faith incompatible with intellectual understanding and scientific research?
• 21What is the relationship between faith and scientific and spiritual knowledge?
• 22Which is first: knowledge or belief?
• 23How do we pay our debts with faith?
• 24What do the Fathers say about the majesty of faith?
• 25How is our faith strengthened?
• 26What is the relationship of faith to virtues?
• 27How do we proceed in true faith?
• 28How do we face all the worldly corruption?
• 29What role do tribulations play in faith?
• 30What is the role of faith in the virtues and acts of love?
• 31What is the role of faith in hope?
• 32How can we discern between the faith of demons and the faith of saints?
• 33Can a believer deviate and fall?
• 34How is faith established in our inner souls?
• 35Can we find God’s heroes of faith throughout the ages?
• 36Are the gifts of the people of faith the same for everyone?
• 37Does God have favorites among the believers?
• 38What are the signs of a living faith?

4. The Holy Bible

Book 1 · questions 39–60

• 39Why the Holy Bible?
• 40Why do we need to study the Scriptures deeply?
• 41Is the Holy Bible inscribed in the pure heart and preserved in it?
• 42What is the believer’s view of the Holy Bible?
• 43What is the Church Fathers’ view of the Holy Bible?
• 44How does the Holy Bible invite us, along with all nations, to extol and praise?
• 45What is the purpose of the Holy Bible?
• 46How can we delight in the mysteries of the Holy Bible?
• 47How does the Holy Bible present the Lord to us as compassionate and just?
• 48Why is it said that “The Word of God endures forever?”
• 49What is the subject of preaching?
• 50How do heretics differ in their approach to the Holy Bible?
• 51Why are some people scandalized by the Old Testament?
• 52What is meant by the veil that lies on the hearts of some?
• 53How shall the veil be lifted from us?
• 54What is the interpretive approach of the School of Alexandria?¹⁶⁶
• 55What is the difference between Allegory and Typology?
• 56What is the Fathers’ stance on Allegory and Typology, after Origen?
• 57What is St. Clement’s justification for the use of allegorical interpretation?
• 58What is Origen’s justification for using allegorical interpretation?
• 59How does Origen explain allegorical interpretation?
• 60What are St. Cyril of Alexandria’s views regarding the interpretation of the Holy Bible?

5. Holy Tradition

Book 1 · questions 61–92

• 61What does the word “tradition” mean?
• 62What is the material of tradition?
• 63What was the role of tradition in the apostolic age?
• 64How is apostolic tradition connected to the Gospel?
• 65How has the Holy Bible been preserved till today?
• 66How were the words and acts of Christ preserved?
• 67What does Papias say about tradition?
• 68What does St. Irenaeus say about tradition?
• 69How did tradition confront Gnosticism and the heresies of the second century?
• 70What does the scholar Tertullian say about tradition?
• 71What does St. Clement of Alexandria say about tradition?
• 72What does Origen say about tradition?
• 73What does St. Cyprian say about tradition?
• 74What does St. Gregory the bishop of Nyssa say about tradition?
• 75What does St. Basil the Great say about tradition?
• 76What does St. John Chrysostom say about tradition?
• 77What does St. Epiphanius the bishop of Salamis say about tradition?
• 78What does St. Augustine say about tradition?
• 79What is the relationship between Christian tradition and Jewish tradition?
• 80What are the important schools of Jewish tradition?
• 81What are the important books or works of Jewish tradition?
• 82What is our Lord Jesus’ attitude towards Jewish tradition?
• 83What is the Christian Church’s attitude towards Jewish tradition?
• 84Has the life of the Church taken anything from holy tradition?
• 85Has ethical teaching taken anything from holy tradition?
• 86Has Church worship taken anything from holy tradition?
• 87Have the liturgies taken anything from holy tradition?
• 88Have the rites taken anything from holy tradition?
• 89What is the responsibility of the clergy and the laity in preserving holy tradition and its continuity?
• 90What is the role of the laity in preserving the traditional life of the Church?
• 91How can we hold fast to the tradition of the Church in contemporary life?
• 92What does tradition mean in the ecumenical movement of the Church?²⁷⁵

1. Christian Dogma

Book 2 · questions 93–95

• 93What does the word “dogma” mean? And what is its purpose?
• 94What are the main characteristics of Christian dogma?
• 95Is believing in divine dogmas incompatible with growing in knowledge?

2. (a) The Creed of Faith and the Origin of the Canons of the Church

Book 2 · questions 96–98

• 96How did the canons of the Church originate?
• 97What is the Apostles’ Creed (Symbolum Apostolicum)?
• 98How did the Creed of the Church evolve?²⁷⁹

2. (b) Regarding the Coptic Orthodox Creed

Book 2 · questions 99–103

• 99What does the Church mean by “the Creed”?
• 100What is the purpose of the Creed?
• 101What did our Fathers of the Middle Ages transmit to us?
• 102What is the connection between the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer?
• 103What does the Creed contribute to our interior richness?

2. (c) Exposition of the Creed

Book 2 · questions 104–144

• 104What is the extent of the connection between the Creed, preparation for baptism, and preservation of the Orthodox faith?
• 105What are the articles of the present Creed?
• 106Why do we begin the Creed by saying, “we believe”?
• 107Why do we begin by affirming faith in One God?
• 108What does “we believe in One God” mean?
• 109How does the Father’s fatherhood to the Son differ from His fatherhood to the faithful?
• 110Why do we call God called the Almighty (Pantocrator)? What does the word Pantocrator or Almighty mean?
• 111Why do we cherish God as the Creator of all things?
• 112Why did the Church employ the term “Creator of heaven and earth”?
• 113Why do we believe in our Lord Jesus?
• 114What does the title “the Lord Christ” mean to us?
• 115Why does the Creed proclaim that He is the Only Begotten Son of God?
• 116Why do we recite our faith that He is the one “by whom all things were made” (i.e., He is the Creator)?
• 117How can we say “came down from heaven” when He is present everywhere?
• 118Did He leave heaven?
• 119Why do we say, “Who for us men and our salvation, came down from heaven”?
• 120What does the Holy Bible say about the incarnation of the Son of God, of the Holy Spirit, from the Virgin Mary?
• 121What does the phrase “was incarnate and became man” mean?
• 122How is there only one nature in Christ?
• 123Why does the Creed include the phrase, “was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and of the Virgin Mary”?
• 124Was the incarnation essential?
• 125Why did the Lord Christ keep His silence during the religious and civil trials?
• 126Why does the Creed mention the suffering of Christ?
• 127What is the significance of including “under Pontius Pilate” as part of the Creed?
• 128How was the crucifixion transformed from being a humiliation into being honor and glory?
• 129What is the mystery of dying and being buried with Christ?
• 130Why did the Lord Christ die?
• 131Why was He buried in a tomb?
• 132Why did the Lord Christ descend into Hades?
• 133Why do the Jews reject the resurrection of the Lord Christ?
• 134What is the Gnostic understanding of the ascension?
• 135By ascending, did the Lord Christ depart from the world?
• 136What does the great day of the Lord mean in the mind of the Church?
• 137What does the Lord Christ ask of us?
• 138What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
• 139Why is the Holy Spirit called “the Giver of Life”?
• 140What does it mean for the Church to be “catholic (universal)”?
• 141What is the purpose of baptism?
• 142What will be our fate when the earth passes away?
• 143What is the life of the age to come?
• 144What does the word “Amen” mean?

3. Faith in God and Our Knowledge of Him

Book 2 · questions 145–175

• 145Is it necessary to believe in God?
• 146Does faith cancel the gift of reason?
• 147Why is God called Theos?
• 148What are the characteristics of the One God?
• 149Does the Holy Bible avoid discussion of the characteristics of the essence of God?
• 150If God is Spirit, why does the Holy Bible describe God as having bodily members such as the heart of God, the eyes of the Lord, His ears, and hands?
• 151If God is everywhere present, why is it said that He dwells in heaven, or in the Church, or in the believer?
• 152Is it possible for a person to know the essence of God?
• 153What does the Holy Bible say about our inability to know God’s essence?
• 154Does the Holy Bible testify that it is possible for us to know God?
• 155What does “no one can see Me and live” mean?
• 156Why did God call Himself “Jehovah” (Ex. 3:14–15) when Moses the prophet asked for His name?
• 157Why does the Holy Bible emphasize the oneness of God and that there is no other God beside Him (2 Sam. 7:22)?
• 158What are the characteristics of God?
• 159How can God possess all these kinds of characteristics, and yet be described as simple?
• 160Why does the Holy Bible use human expressions to speak about God?
• 161How are God’s divine characteristics related to His divine being?
• 162What does it mean that God is all-sufficient?
• 163What does it mean that God is without beginning or end?
• 164What does it mean for God's characteristics to be unchanging?
• 165What does it mean that God is everywhere present?
• 166What does it mean that God is unseen and incomprehensible?
• 167What is the foreknowledge of God?
• 168What does the divine characteristic of being “all-wise” mean?
• 169What is the characteristic of divine power?
• 170What is the characteristic of divine holiness?
• 171What are the characteristics of divine love and compassion?
• 172What did Moses ask of God regarding service when he first encountered Him?
• 173Do the angels, as far as they are able, see God?
• 174What does God’s absolute perfection mean?
• 175Who is able to express divine love?

4. The Holy Trinity

Book 2 · questions 176–206

• 176What is the Church’s teaching concerning the Holy Trinity?
• 177How did the Lord Christ communicate the doctrine of the Holy Trinity to us?
• 178What are the earliest Trinitarian formulas?
• 179What are the positions of the Old Testament and the New Testament on the doctrines of the oneness of God and the three Hypostases?
• 180Does the Holy Bible explicitly teach the doctrine of the Trinity?
• 181Why does the Old Testament focus on the Hypostasis of the Father?
• 182What does the New Testament teach about the Holy Trinity being of one essence?
• 183How can we accept the Trinitarian faith if the God’s divine nature is simple? Does Trinitarian faith contradict divine unitary simplicity?
• 184Which verses are used by those who deny the divinity of Christ?
• 185How could the eternal God be Love before He created anything to love?
• 186How can God have a Son?
• 187How can we understand the oneness of the Holy Trinity?
• 188Does the Son have a will that can contradict the will of the Father?
• 189How does Trinitarian faith affect our daily life?
• 190What analogies of the Holy Trinity did the Fathers use?
• 191How do we understand the Hypostatic characteristics?
• 192How do the Hypostatic characteristics constitute the divine essence?
• 193What are the essential characteristics shared by the Holy Trinity? And what are the specific characteristics of each Hypostasis?
• 194Who is the Father?
• 195Who is the Logos or Son?
• 196Is it possible to separate the Father from the Son?
• 197Does the Son see the Father in His perfection?
• 198Does the Father command us to heed the Son?
• 199What are the most important names of Christ?
• 200Why does Isaiah call Jesus a Savior?
• 201Who is the Holy Spirit?
• 202Is the Holy Spirit a divine Hypostasis or just a force that supports believers?
• 203How do we know that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father?
• 204Why did some Fathers use the expression: “The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father through the Son?”
• 205Does the Holy Spirit work in each person according to their needs?
• 206Is the Holy Spirit separate from the Father and the Son?

5. The Wondrous Creator, the Guardian of the World

Book 2 · questions 207–232

• 207When were the heavenly hosts created?
• 208What is the purpose of contemplating creation?
• 209Did the Fathers ignore the scientific studies of their time?
• 210Do we know why God created the world, and how He created it?
• 211What do we know about the role of God in creation?
• 212What is the testimony of the Holy Bible and holy tradition about the Creator of all?
• 213Did God change by being called the Creator?
• 214What is the role of the Son of God in the work of creation?
• 215What is the connection between creation and time?
• 216Was the plan of creation in the mind of God eternally?
• 217Why did God choose Moses as the one to whom He described the creation and made known His divine mysteries?
• 218What is the meaning of “and the earth was without form (invisible), and void” (Gen. 1:2)?
• 219What is the meaning of “the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters” (Gen. 1:2)?
• 220Why did God begin by creating light?
• 221Why does the book of Genesis repeat: “and God saw that it was good” (see Gen. 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31)?
• 222Why did God command waters to be above the firmament, waters to be below the firmament, and waters to be gathered in seas and rivers?
• 223What is God's wisdom in saying on the third day, “Let the earth bring forth …” (Gen. 1:11)?
• 224If we are dazzled by the beauty of the sun, how much more should we be by the beauty of its Creator, the Sun of Righteousness?
• 225What do we learn from the moon?
• 226Why did God create reptiles in the rivers, seas, and lakes?
• 227What do we learn from migratory fish?
• 228How can we learn even from despised little creatures?
• 229How do we benefit from the creation of wild animals?
• 230What do these words of the Holy Bible mean: “God saw that it was good” (Gen. 1:10)?
• 231Can the world exist without its Creator?
• 232Can anyone describe the worth of the human soul, except for the Creator?!

6. The Exalted Nature of the Human Creation

Book 2 · questions 233–261

• 233What did God bestow upon Adam when he was created?
• 234Was the Paradise that God gave to Adam material or spiritual?
• 235What is the tree of life, whose fruit Adam should have eaten in Paradise?
• 236Why did God create Eve for Adam?
• 237Why did God create Eve from Adam’s rib?
• 238What is the image of the Lord that was bestowed upon Adam?
• 239What is the role of the soul in human life?
• 240Why did God grant people free will?
• 241How do we restore the image God in us?
• 242How can the gifts of mind and discernment be sanctified?
• 243What does the Original require of the image?
• 244Who can describe the value of the soul that bears the image of God?
• 245Can the image of God increase or decrease?
• 246What is the royal palace that God prepared for Adam and Eve?
• 247Were they king and queen, or bride and groom, in the Garden of Eden?
• 248What was the state of Adam and Eve in Paradise?
• 249Did Adam and Eve underestimate their bodies?
• 250What was Adam’s view of his bodily members, senses, and emotions?
• 251Does the human soul rule over the body?
• 252Does the body partner with the soul in everything?
• 253Is the human being a creature that is both mortal and immortal?
• 254Was man created mortal or immortal?
• 255Who plants a paradise in my soul?
• 256Are the heavenly creatures perplexed by humans?
• 257The human being cannot see his own soul, so how can God call him to behold Him?
• 258Do humans partake of God’s goodness?
• 259Who is the happiest being on the face of the earth?
• 260Does the human being grow continually, both here and in the age to come?
• 261Which sacrifices do human beings offer?

7. Divine Providence

Book 2 · questions 262–292

• 262What is divine providence?
• 263Is divine providence the work of the Holy Trinity?
• 264What is the relationship between divine providence and divine grace?
• 265What does the Holy Bible say about divine providence?
• 266How did the Church Fathers experience God’s protection?
• 267How does God perserve the creation?
• 268How does divine providence work in our lives?
• 269How does the Church of Alexandria understand divine providence?
• 270What is the the extent of divine providence for the universe?
• 271Does God have authority over the heavenly and earthly creations?
• 272Do events happen in the creation through coincidence or destiny?
• 273Do miracles break the laws of nature?
• 274What does it mean that God manages the affairs of the world?
• 275What is the role of divine providence in our creation?
• 276Why did the beneficent God give a commandment to Adam and Eve in Paradise?
• 277What is the extent of divine providence in human life?
• 278Does divine providence include animals?
• 279Does divine providence ever cease from working?
• 280What is the purpose of divine providence for every human being?
• 281What do the Alexandrians seek from divine providence?
• 282Where do the angels, both good and evil, stand in relation to divine providence?
• 283Why does God guarantee that we play our role as humans even though we rely on divine providence?
• 284What do we benefit from divine providence?
• 285Does God care for all humanity generally, or for each individual particularly?
• 286Does discipline contradict divine providence?
• 287Why is it dangerous to think that we can understand the providence of God?
• 288Is the apostles’ knowledge here the like their knowledge in the afterlife?
• 289Are the heavenly orders capable of comprehending or apprehending God?
• 290Who declares to us the provisions (judgments) of God?
• 291How does God reveal His care for us?
• 292What is the difference between God’s foreknowledge of matters, and fate or destiny?

8. Divine Grace

Book 2 · questions 293–307

• 293How do we distinguish between the Almighty God’s divine grace, divine providence, and divine economy?⁵⁵³
• 294What is divine grace?⁵⁵⁵
• 295What is the first work of divine grace?
• 296Is the grace of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit one?
• 297Are there limits to the growth of the work of grace?
• 298Is grace limited to a specific group?
• 299Why did Lord not entrust grace to one of His creations?
• 300Does everyone receive the same portion of Divine grace?
• 301Do we still need divine grace after repentance and baptism?
• 302Is grace necessary for those who strive?
• 303Is labor necessary?
• 304What is the work of divine grace in a person’s life?
• 305What is the role of grace after the fall of humanity?
• 306What are the roles of the law and of grace?
• 307What do we receive from grace after the fall of humanity?

9. The Fall of Humanity

Book 2 · questions 308–337

• 308Why did God not reject Satan?
• 309Is Satan able to harm you?
• 310How can we avoid fearing Satan?
• 311Should we, then, hold the devil blameless?
• 312Why is it not the devil who deceives you?
• 313Isn’t it deviation from the goal that harms the human being?
• 314Can injustice harm us?
• 315Does the harm befall the oppressor or the oppressed?
• 316Can poverty harm us?
• 317Can death harm us?
• 318What was the state of the three youths?
• 319What did Job endure? (according to St. John Chrysostom).⁶⁶³
• 320How did Adam and Eve’s eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil bring death upon us?
• 321Why was the tree called the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil?
• 322What is that death that came upon Adam and Eve because of their disobedience to God?
• 323Why did God not permit Adam and Eve to eat of the Tree of Life?
• 324Did Adam and Eve lose their hope of salvation after hearing the judgment that resulted from their disobedience?
• 325Do you know who you are?
• 326What did sin do to me?
• 327How should God react to humanity’s disobedience of the divine commandment?
• 328Why was it not enough for God that humans repent of sin?⁶⁶⁹
• 329What is the divine economy⁶⁷² for our salvation?
• 330How does the Holy Trinity cooperate to work in us?
• 331What is the role of each Hypostasis in my life?
• 332Why was humanity sentenced: “you shall surely die”?
• 333How did sin corrupt humanity’s vision of God?
• 334What does the story of the tunics of skin signify?
• 335How did the blood sacrifices prepare us for the sacrifice of the New Testament?
• 336What is the promise of divine salvation and the prophesy of the coming of the Savior after many generations?
• 337What does reconciliation with God mean?

10. Our Lord Jesus Christ, Savior of the World

Book 2 · questions 338–369

• 338Why does the Christian Church consider the Old Testament to be an integral part of the Holy Bible?
• 339How was the Old Testament law inadequate without the Lord Christ?
• 340Why does St. Paul rebuke his own Jewish race?
• 341What is the chief concern of the Old Testament prophets?
• 342What are the most important prophecies concerning the incarnation of the Word from the seed of King David of the Tribe of Judah?
• 343What are the most important prophecies concerning the birth of the Lord Christ?
• 344What are the most important prophecies about the Lord Christ’s last week on earth?
• 345What are the most important prophecies concerning the resurrection of the Lord Christ?
• 346What are the most important prophecies concerning the Ascension of the Lord Christ to heaven?
• 347What are the most important prophecies concerning the Lord Christ as a prophet?
• 348What are the most important prophecies concerning the Lord Christ as a priest?
• 349What are the most important prophecies about the divinity of the Lord Christ?
• 350What are the signs that confirm that the one born of St. Mary is the Messiah, the promised Savior?
• 351Did anyone know that the one born of the Virgin was the Messiah, the Savior?
• 352What are the principal teachings of Christ?
• 353What are the signs that Jesus Christ performed?
• 354How does the Lord Christ save us?
• 355How does the death of the Lord Christ on the cross save us from sin, the curse, and death?
• 356Is this salvation available to all people?
• 357Why did St. Jacob of Sarug call the cross of the Lord Christ “The Divine Chariot”?
• 358How did the Lord Christ come to be crucified when His life, teachings, and miracles testified to His Holiness?
• 359Why does the Orthodox Creed mention that He suffered, was crucified, and was buried?
• 360How could He, being God, suffer, be crucified, and be buried?
• 361What does it mean that Jesus Christ was crucified for our sake?
• 362Why did the Lord Christ make known His resurrection only to His own followers?
• 363Where was His resurrection on the third day mentioned?
• 364Why did the Lord Himself appear to His disciples during the forty days after His resurrection?
• 365Does the Holy Bible testify to His ascension?
• 366How did Jesus Christ sit on the right hand of the Father?
• 367What does the Holy Bible say about the second coming of Christ?
• 368What is the meaning of hope?
• 369What does St. Cyril the Great say about our Advocate and Savior?

11. Titles and Names of the Savior that Witness to the Works of His Love

Book 2 · questions 370–408

• 370Why is He given the name “Wonderful” (Isa. 9:6)?
• 371Why is Jesus called “Savior”?
• 372Why is Jesus called “the Messiah, the crucified King”?
• 373Why is Jesus called “the Lord, Yahweh”?
• 374Why is Jesus called “the Word of God”?⁷¹¹
• 375Why is Jesus called “the Power of God and W3isdom of God”?⁷¹⁸
• 376Why is Jesus called “the Counsellor”?
• 377Why is Jesus called “the King of Kings”?
• 378Why is Jesus called “the Son of God” and “the Son of Man”?
• 379Why is Jesus called “the New or Second Adam”?
• 380Why is Jesus called “the Lamb of God”?
• 381Why is Jesus called a “sin offering”?
• 382Why is Jesus called “the Heavenly High Priest”?
• 383Why is Jesus called “the one Mediator”?
• 384Why is Jesus called “the Head of the body”?
• 385Why is Jesus called “the beloved Friend”?
• 386Why is Jesus called “the Good Teacher”?
• 387Why is Jesus called “the Good Shepherd”?
• 388Why is Jesus called “the Firstborn”?
• 389Why is Jesus called “the Gate” and “the Gatekeeper”?
• 390Why is Jesus called “the Rock”?
• 391Why is Jesus called “Light and Fire”?
• 392Why is Jesus called “the Good Samaritan” (Luke 10:25–37)?
• 393Why is Jesus called “the image of the invisible God”?
• 394Why is Jesus called “the Pearl of Great Price”?
• 395Why is Jesus called “the True Vine” (John 15:1)?
• 396Why is Jesus called “the Prophet”?
• 397Why is Jesus called “the Faithful”?
• 398Why is Jesus called “the Bridegroom”?
• 399Why is Jesus called “the Truth”?
• 400Why is Jesus called “Peace and Righteousness”?
• 401Why is Jesus called “the Alpha and Omega” (Rev. 1:8, 11)?
• 402Why is Jesus called “the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last” (Rev. 1:8, 11)?
• 403Why is Jesus called “the Lion” (Rev. 5:5)?
• 404Why is Jesus called “the Stone”?
• 405Why is Jesus called “the Garment of righteousness”?
• 406Why is Jesus called “the Suffering Servant”?
• 407Why is Jesus called “the Judge”?
• 408What is “the Jesus Prayer”?

12. The Holy Spirit and Divine Salvation

Book 2 · questions 409–448

• 409What role does the Holy Spirit play in our attainment of divine salvation?
• 410What was Christ’s purpose in speaking the words He did on the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles regarding the descent of the Holy Spirit?
• 411What does John the Evangelist say about this divine promise?
• 412Why did the Holy Spirit descend upon the Church after the Lord was glorified through His suffering, crucifixion, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension to heaven?
• 413What can we learn from the early Church Fathers’ experiences in drinking from this spring of which the Lord Christ spoke when He described Himself as the Fountain that quenches the thirsty?
• 414What is the meaning of the words, “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture had said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38)?
• 415Why does the believer not receive the gift of speaking in the tongues of many nations when he is baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit?
• 416Did Jesus need the Holy Spirit to descend upon Him at His baptism in the River Jordan?
• 417What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit and the Lord Christ as Savior?
• 418What is the role of the Holy Spirit in the Old and New Testaments?
• 419Is there evidence in the Holy Bible that the Spirit spoke through the prophets?
• 420If the Spirit spoke through the prophets and descended upon the disciples in the form of tongues of fire, does He also work in the faithful?
• 421How do we become partakers of the Holy Spirit?
• 422What are the most important gifts and talents endowed by the Holy Spirit?
• 423What is faith, considered as one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:9)?
• 424Who defies the violent winds of sin and the darkness of Satan?
• 425Why did the Lord Christ say, “Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you” (John 16:7)?
• 426In whom can we find heavenly comfort amidst our struggles and battles with the vicious devil?
• 427How is the mission of the head of Abraham’s household a type of the mission of the Holy Spirit?
• 428What role does the Holy Spirit play in the life of the Church after the ascension of the Lord Christ to heaven?
• 429What is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer?
• 430Were the disciples in need of another teacher to comfort them?
• 431Who sent the Holy Spirit: the Father or the Son?
• 432Do all enjoy the Holy Spirit to the same extent?
• 433What does the apostle Paul mean when he says, “Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Thess. 5:19)?
• 434What does the Lord Christ mean when He says of the Holy Spirit: “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin” (John 16:8)?
• 435What does the Lord Christ mean when He says of the Holy Spirit: “And when He has come, He will convict the world … of righteousness” (John 16:8)?
• 436What does the Lord Christ mean when He says of the Holy Spirit: “And when He has come, He will convict the world … of judgment” (John 16:8)?
• 437What concept of freedom does the Holy Spirit grants us?
• 438What does the Holy Spirit bestow upon the soul when He accompanies it?
• 439When will the Spring season of Resurrection begin and proclaim the hidden glory?
• 440What do the fire of the Holy Spirit and the fire of the world offer you?
• 441Can our souls abide in the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit abide in us?
• 442Was the human being deprived of wings with which to fly?
• 443Before the Fall, were Adam and Eve clothed with the glory of God for a cloak?
• 444Is the Holy Spirit with the hosts of heaven?
• 445If the Holy Spirit is described as God’s “power” (Acts 1:8), does this contradict His being a divine Hypostasis?
• 446What role does the Holy Spirit play in the renewal of the Church?
• 447What role does the Holy Spirit play in our continuous sanctification and our steadfastness in the Holy God?
• 448What role does the Holy Spirit play in consecrating the heart to God?

1. The Church: The Kingdom of God

Book 3 · questions 449–483

• 449What do we mean by “the Church is God’s kingdom on earth”?
• 450Who builds the Church and guards it?
• 451What are the characteristics of this bride and what is her relationship with the Bridegroom the King of kings like?
• 452What were the stages of God’s wondrous salvation of His believers, the people of God?
• 453Why does the Creed mention the Church after talking about the oneness of God and the Holy Trinity?
• 454What are the fruits of our unity with Christ our head, and with each other as members of the one body?
• 455When we use the word “church,” what do we mean?
• 456Have we entered into the holies while we are still in the world?
• 457What is the difference between the Levitical priesthood and the priesthood of Christ?
• 458How did Stephen see the High Priest (Christ); was He sitting or standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:56)?
• 459What is the meaning of the Church or “Ecclesia Εκκλησία”?
• 460What is the Church Fathers’ view of the Church?
• 461Did the Old Testament ever reveal the Church?
• 462Do the so-called saints make up the Church?
• 463Can Church members who cannot be rectified be cut off from the Church?
• 464Why do some people believe that there are no saints in the contemporary Church?
• 465Are all the saints, across all the generations, members of the Church?
• 466What titles are given to the Church?
• 467What do we mean by “One Church”?
• 468Was there anyone in history who was an example of the desire for Church unity?
• 469How can we practically enjoy the mystery of unity?
• 470What do we mean when we say, “a holy Church”?
• 471What do we mean when we say that the Church is Catholic (universal)?
• 472What do we mean by the “Apostolic Church”?
• 473What do we mean by the Church, “the teacher and guardian of the truth”?
• 474What is the system of Church service?
• 475What did the Psalmist say about the Church?
• 476How do we see the Church in Noah’s Ark?
• 477What is the role of the fiery Holy Spirit in the Church?
• 478Can a believer isolate himself from his brothers and sisters?
• 479Does the Church include believers of different spiritual degrees?
• 480Should we be troubled by the presence of corrupt people in the Church?
• 481What is the Church's stance on those who are corrupt and reckless?
• 482What does the Apostle Paul mean when he says that the Church proclaims the mystery of salvation to the heavenly ones (Eph. 3:9–11)?
• 483Does the Church love all humanity?

2. The Heavenly High Priest and the Church

Book 3 · questions 484–492

• 484Why did sorrow fill the hearts of the disciples during Christ’s farewell speech?
• 485How did the sorrow of the disciples turn into great joy, directly after the ascension?
• 486What are the features of the Church of the New Covenant after the ascension of Christ?
• 487Did the work of the Savior stop with His ascension to heaven?
• 488What does he mean by saying, “as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the presence behind the veil” (Heb. 6:19)?
• 489What is Christ’s role with regards to His unique heavenly priesthood?
• 490How could He be the High Priest and the Forgiver of sins at the same time?
• 491What does St. Paul mean by “the apostle of our confession”?
• 492What does the apostle mean by saying, “Now to appear in the presence of God for us” (Heb. 9:24)?

3. The Church as a Heavenly Wedding Feast

Book 3 · questions 493–508

• 493Is the Church a heavenly bride or a social establishment?
• 494What is our role in getting ready for the heavenly wedding?
• 495Do we use the language of “the heavenly bride”?
• 496What is the heavenly treasure of the Church?
• 497What are the riches the heavenly bride wishes to acquire?
• 498How did St. John the Baptist rejoice over the Church, the bride of Christ?
• 499What are the unique features of the heavenly bride?
• 500How is Jacob’s marriage a symbol of the Church, the bride?
• 501Why is the Church called, “the sanctified daughter”?
• 502What is the matrimonial ring offered by the heavenly bridegroom?
• 503How will the Bridegroom wash away her defilements?
• 504What is her bride-price (or dowry)?
• 505Will He not give us here on earth a portion of the bride-price?
• 506What is the garment worn by the bride and queen?
• 507Is the Church His daughter or His bride?
• 508How will the bride contribute?

4. The Unique Work of the Church

Book 3 · questions 509–519

• 509What is the most important work of the Church?
• 510What is the Church’s understanding of the heavenly powers?
• 511What is the Church’s role towards the powers of evil?
• 512How can the believer view the Church as his place of refuge?
• 513How can the Church make the believer a “firstborn whose name is registered in heaven”?
• 514How can the church make the believer “a high mountain” that soars in the heavens above all worldly matters?
• 515How can someone fulfill his role as an active living member of the Church?
• 516What is the meaning of “the Church is the Gate of Zion”?
• 517What is the meaning of “the Church is the New Israel”?
• 518What is the role of Church as an interpreter of Scripture?
• 519What are the limits of preaching the Gospel of Christ?

5. The Church: House of Salvation

Book 3 · questions 520–533

• 520What is the purpose of building God’s house in the midst of His people?
• 521Why did Jeremiah the prophet warn the people against saying: “The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, are these”?
• 522What is the relationship between the Church and Christ the Savior?
• 523Why does St. Ignatius the Theophorus say, “The Church is the place of the sacrifice (Thysiasterion Θυσιαστήριον)”?
• 524Is it our duty to pray for the salvation of others?
• 525What does Origen say about the Church, the house of salvation?
• 526How does Origen interpret the ark of Noah and its dimensions as a symbol of the Church, the house of salvation?
• 527Does the Church have the authority to forgive sins?
• 528What is the role of the Church as “the mother of the believers”?
• 529Does the Church grieve over sinners?
• 530How are we going to drink from the new cup together with Christ in heaven (Matt. 26:29)?
• 531Should all the faithful care for the salvation of their souls?
• 532Is there a need for literal interpretation and moral interpretation while ignoring allegorical and spiritual styles of interpretation?
• 533Is it fitting for the shepherd to compliment the people at the expense of their salvation?

6. The Eminence of the Church

Book 3 · questions 534–549

• 534What do the Fathers say about the sublimity of the Church?
• 535How can the Church be called a mother and virgin at the same time?
• 536How can the Church be a virgin?
• 537What does her heavenly Bridegroom call her?
• 538Why does St. Ignatius, the Theophorus, call the Church “a congregation of love”?
• 539Why does St. Ignatius the Theophorus call the Church “a congregation of thanksgiving and praise”?
• 540How does Christ work in the members of His Church?
• 541What is the Church’s role in the hearts of believers?
• 542How can the believer know the will of God?
• 543How does the Church urge the believer to work?
• 544Why were the elect believers, or the holy Church, called “the little flock” (Luke 12:32)?
• 545Why is the Church likened to the infirmed woman who was healed (Luke 13:10– 11)?
• 546Why is the Church called the “inn” that is open for all humanity (Luke 10:34)?
• 547Can someone be saved while being separated from the Church?
• 548What does it mean to be separated from the Church?
• 549What does it mean to return back to the Church?

7. The Church and Daily Renewal

Book 3 · questions 550–552

• 550How can the Church be continuously renewed from glory to glory?
• 551Are there always going to be victories without end?
• 552Do we cherish the Church because she is ancient or because she is new?

8. The Church and Society

Book 3 · questions 553–568

• 553How can the Church practice her motherhood while staying committed to her spiritual and social life?
• 554What is the Old Testament’s view of social life?
• 555What is the New Testament’s view of social life?
• 556What was the approach of the early Church to social life?
• 557What were the principles of social work in the early Church?
• 558What was the role of the early Church in society?
• 559What is the stance of the Christian faith towards human culture?
• 560What is the Christian faith’s view of the human mind?
• 561Is “learning” a human right?
• 562How did Christianity open the door to scientific advancement?
• 563Is there a link between the Christian faith and social and familial relationships?
• 564What is the Christian stance on companionship and friendship?
• 565What is Christianity’s view on ethics and morals?
• 566What is Christianity’s stance on defending oneself, family, and homeland?
• 567How did the Mosaic Law prepare humanity for perfection in Christ Jesus?
• 568What are the limits of discipline in the New Testament?

The Role of Women in Society and Church

Book 3 · questions 569–575

• 569What is the role of women as leaders in society and in the early Church?
• 570What did St. Clement of Rome say about the capabilities of believing women?
• 571What was the role of Olympias the Deaconess?
• 572How did Amma Sarah become a spiritual guide?
• 573Why did St. Athanasius the Apostolic consider St. Syncletica to be an angel?
• 574What was the role of women in the early Church for the Eastern Fathers?¹¹⁴⁸
• 575What is the stance of the School of Alexandria on Abortion?

9. The Person of the Church

Book 3 · questions 576–583

• 576Who is a person of the Church?
• 577What is membership of the Church?
• 578What is unity of the Church according to St. Clement?
• 579What does the motherhood of the Church mean?
• 580Why is the Church called “the assembly of the elect”?
• 581Why is the Church called “the new world”?
• 582What is the relationship between the Church on earth and the Church in heaven?
• 583Is it possible to find a Church that is perfectly pure?

10. The Mystery of the House of God

Book 3 · questions 584–607

• 584Is there any need for building a house of God?
• 585How do we understand the church building?
• 586What is the importance of the church building in the life of the Church?
• 587Is a church built based only on architectural principles?
• 588What do we mean by the liturgical life or the liturgical form of a church?
• 589How does the church structure relate to the heavenly life?
• 590How does the structure of the church building reflect the inner life of the believer?
• 591Why were the catacombs used for worship, especially in the West?
• 592What is the role of church architecture in Egypt?
• 593What was the very first church in Egypt?
• 594What was the style of churches built in Egypt afterwards?
• 595Why did the early church choose to look towards the East in worship?
• 596What is the meaning of looking towards the east in our worship and our churches’ structure?
• 597What is the outer shape of a church building?
• 598What is our understanding of the sanctuary of the church?
• 599What is the “cathedra”? And what is the “apse”?
• 600What rites are performed in the sanctuary?
• 601What is the connection between the altar that is in the sanctuary and the inner altar of our souls?
• 602If animal sacrifices were invalidated by the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, why do we still need an altar?
• 603What are the features of the Coptic altar?
• 604How is an altar consecrated?
• 605Why do we use covers for the altar?
• 606What is the “altar board”?
• 607What is the “throne”?

11. The Iconostasis

Book 3 · questions 608–630

• 608What are the different names of the iconostasis?
• 609What is the role of the iconostasis?
• 610What are the gates of the iconostasis?
• 611What are the windows of the iconostasis?
• 612How are the icons arranged on the iconostasis?
• 613What hangs from the iconostasis?
• 614What is the message of iconography?
• 615How do we understand the commandment: “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth, you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” (Ex. 20:4–5)?
• 616Is it permissible to bow down to anyone other than God?
• 617What is the importance of consecrating churches and icons?
• 618Why do we revere sacred icons?
• 619When did the use of icons of the Lord Jesus Christ begin?
• 620Why was the early Church cautious about the depiction of Christ?
• 621What are the physical features of Christ?
• 622Why does the Church care about the icons of saints?
• 623Is there a need for the icons of saints?
• 624Where are the icons of four evangelists and the icon of the apostles placed?
• 625What are the forms of the glorious halo in Coptic icons?
• 626Why are we interested in icons of those in heaven?
• 627How has iconography evolved over the ages?
• 628To what extent were Copts involved in art, especially iconography?
• 629What are the most important characteristics of Coptic iconography?
• 630What is the impact of Coptic art on the world?

12. Coptic Art and Symbolism

Book 3 · questions 631–638

• 631What is the stance of the Coptic Church on symbolism?
• 632What are the most important Coptic symbols?
• 633How is the symbol of the cross related to church architecture, theology, and art?
• 634How is the Cross incorporated into church architecture?
• 635What are the various forms of the Coptic cross?
• 636Are there examples of Coptic crosses found in Coptic monuments and antiquities?
• 637What is the golden serpent?
• 638What is a chest cross?

13. The Holy Utensils

Book 3 · questions 639–652

• 639How are the sacred vessels consecrated to the service of the Lord?
• 640What is the chalice?
• 641What is the paten?
• 642What is the dome?
• 643What is the spoon?
• 644What are the two cruets?
• 645What is the throne or ark?
• 646What is the ciborium or the antiphoron?
• 647What is the gospel?
• 648What are the liturgical fans?
• 649What is the rite of censing?
• 650Why do we use incense?
• 651What is the censer?
• 652What other utensils are used?

14. The Church Nave

Book 3 · questions 653–664

• 653What are the sections of the church nave?
• 654What are the sections of the congregation section of church nave?
• 655Why do church buildings have domes?
• 656Why are there pillars in church buildings?
• 657Why is there a pulpit in some churches?
• 658What is the purpose of the water font situated in the western part of the nave?
• 659What is the narthex?
• 660Did the early church perform baptism in the open air?
• 661Did the early church perform baptism inside church buildings?
• 662Why is the baptistery located at the western end of the church nave?
• 663What are the different architectural designs of the baptistery?
• 664What are the features of the baptistery?

15. The Church Belfry

Book 3 · questions 665–669

• 665What is the history of the usage of bells in the church?
• 666Do we use handbells in our churches?
• 667What are the uses of bells and trumpets?
• 668What is the rite of ringing church bells?
• 669What is the etiquette of attending the house of the Lord?

16. The Holy Sacraments

Book 3 · questions 670–674

• 670What is the meaning of the word Mystery in the New Testament?
• 671Why is physical matter used in Church Sacraments?
• 672What is the purpose of the church sacraments?
• 673What is the relationship between all the sacraments?
• 674Why does the Orthodox Creed not mention any sacraments other than baptism?

17. The Sacrament of Baptism

Book 3 · questions 675–681

• 675How did humanity become children of God once more?
• 676What is the sacrament of baptism?
• 677How did the Old Testament prepare us for Christian baptism?
• 678What are the blessings of baptism?
• 679When did baptism begin? And how?
• 680What is required of those who wish to be baptized?
• 681Why do we baptize infants?

On the Rites of Baptism

Book 3 · questions 682–687

• 682Is there a specific time for baptism?
• 683Why were the names of those who sought baptism seekers registered, and how?
• 684How long was the teaching phase of the catechumens?
• 685Who taught the catechumens?
• 686What were the catechumens taught?
• 687What was the spiritual preparation for the sacrament of baptism?

The Rites of Holy Baptism

Book 3 · questions 688–712

• 688What are the rites of the holy baptism?
• 689How does the celebrating priest prepare for baptism?
• 690Who is responsible for examining the candidates for baptism?
• 691Why does the priest perform the laying on of hands in the shape of the cross?
• 692What is the purpose of the recitations that are read to exorcise unclean spirits?
• 693Why do candidates for baptism remove their clothes?
• 694Why are candidates for baptism anointed with oil?
• 695Why are so many Fathers and baptism liturgies concerned with renouncing the devil?
• 696What is the mystery of opening?
• 697How do candidates for baptism confess their faith?
• 698What are the main articles of faith in the baptismal confession of faith?
• 699How are the waters of baptism consecrated?
• 700What prayers are recited while pouring the Myron oil (Chrism) into the water?
• 701When did the baptism by immersion start?
• 702Do we have the custom of washing feet during baptism?
• 703Is the newly baptized person anointed with the Holy Chrism?
• 704Why do the newly baptized wear white clothes?
• 705What is the rite of the crown and the girdle?
• 706What is the commandment to the sponsor?
• 707What does the procession of the newly baptized person while carrying lit candles mean?
• 708What about the custom of feeding the newly baptized a mixture of milk and honey?
• 709What is the prayer of loosening the girdle?
• 710Why can baptism not be repeated?
• 711What happens to the person who, because of carelessness, falls into sin after baptism?
• 712What is the baptism of blood?

18. The Sacrament of Chrismation

Book 3 · questions 713–727

• 713What is the role of the Holy Chrism in the life of the believer?
• 714How did the Apostles perform this sacrament?
• 715What is the role of the sacraments of baptism and chrismation?
• 716Can Baptism be accomplished without the work of the Holy Spirit?
• 717What is do the laying on of hands and chrismation mean?
• 718Why is the Chrism often referred to as God’s seal upon the soul?
• 719What is the connection between the hand of the Almighty and the hand of a human being?
• 720How can the believer constantly grow and mature spiritually?
• 721Why is this holy sacrament called an anointing?
• 722Why is the Holy Chrism also called the “sacrament of confirmation”?
• 723What is the difference between Christ’s anointing and the anointing of the Chrism (or Myron) of those who are newly baptized?
• 724What is the difference between the anointing of the Old Testament and that of the New Testament?
• 725What is the role of the anointing of the priests in the Old Testament and the Myron (Chrism) oil in the New Testament?
• 726What is the role of Chrismation in the life of the baptized person?
• 727What is the meaning of “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption” (Eph. 4:30)?

19. The Sacrament of Repentance & Confession

Book 3 · questions 728–763

• 728Why was our Lord Jesus called “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Matt. 11:19)?
• 729What was Christ’s commandment to His disciples when He appeared to them after His resurrection?
• 730What are the important obligations of the believer who repents?
• 731Should someone who lives in sin constantly be in tears and fear? And with what hope must this person approach the Lord?
• 732Who can heal my soul except You, O Physician, so that it may serve You?
• 733Who can sanctify my corrupted will?
• 734Sin has killed me and buried me in a tomb until I decayed; can God still accept my repentance?
• 735What is the role of the tears of repentance in our lives?
• 736What boldness do the tears of repentance give someone before God?
• 737To what language does the heavenly Physician listen, if not to tears of repentance?
• 738Why are tears of repentance often called a “second baptism”?
• 739Are tears of repentance a gift from God?
• 740Why do you fear the Friend of sinners?
• 741The days are running out and the time of our departure from this world is approaching, so why postpone our repentance?
• 742How can tribulations help us pursue the life of repentance?
• 743Is it necessary to repent before God in our private rooms, and then again in the presence of the Father of Confession?
• 744Why does God the Lover of humanity use different ways of chastisement?
• 745How does one resist sin through the positive aspects of repentance?
• 746Are there any practical steps to support us in the life of repentance?
• 747How can we deal with those who refrain from big sins but tolerate lesser sins?
• 748How can someone reach the level of hating sin (Ps. 119:163)?
• 749How can the soul be completely convinced that God forgives its sins?
• 750How can the soul be certain that it is purified from sin?
• 751What happens to a person who sins after his baptism?
• 752What are the fruits of true repentance?
• 753Why is it that sometimes one feels sorrow and remorse without any effort (almost naturally) for a certain sin, but at some other times one feels very lukewarm and even if he forces himself, he still does not feel any regret in his heart?
• 754What is our stance on those who conceal their sins?
• 755What if a person says, “my conscience is clear”?
• 756What is required of the repentant person when he falls into the same sin again?
• 757What is the appropriate conduct of the repentant believer?
• 758Is there a contradiction between shedding tears of repentance and having a cheerful personality?
• 759What is grief according to God and grief according to the world? (cf. 2 Cor.7:10).
• 760What kind of sorrow is praiseworthy (Matt. 5:4)?
• 761Is discipleship necessary?
• 762Why do I need discipleship to my Father in confession if I already knew the source of his teachings and instructions? I memorized the entire Bible and I even studied it much better than many priests!
• 763Is there a model prayer for repentance?

20. The Sacrament of the Eucharist

Book 3 · questions 764–789

• 764What is the mystery of communion in the eucharist?
• 765Is the eucharist a sacrifice?
• 766Why is the Sacrament of the Eucharist considered to be the pinnacle of Christian worship?
• 767Is it possible to partake of the eucharist every week?
• 768Is it permissible for a person to receive the body and blood of our Lord every day?
• 769Why do we believe in the one Sacrifice that is offered on multiple altars?
• 770Why do we mix the wine with water in the chalice?
• 771How can we prepare ourselves to receive the body and blood of the Lord?
• 772What results from partaking of the body and blood of the Lord?
• 773How do we feel when we participate in the Divine Liturgy?
• 774Will the Church continue to pray Divine Liturgy until the second coming?
• 775What is the relationship between the table of the eucharist and the table of teaching?
• 776What is the role of this banquet in the lives of those who partake of it?
• 777What does the heavenly Bridegroom offer the faithful on His table?
• 778Is the eucharist, true Body and true Blood?
• 779Do you want to see Jesus Christ?
• 780Who transforms the offerings into the body and blood of Christ?
• 781How can St. Paul say, “because I received from the Lord” (1 Cor. 11:23) when he did not attend the Lord’s Supper?
• 782What does the Apostle mean by the words, “the cup of blessing” (1 Cor. 10:16)?
• 783Why did Christ say, “Do this in remembrance (anamnesis) of Me” (Luke 22:19)?
• 784How can the altar, which is the source of many blessings, be a reason for judgement (1 Cor. 11:29)?
• 785Can communion be received without true repentance?
• 786How can we prepare ourselves for the partaking of the Body and Blood of the Lord?
• 787Can the Eucharist be offered in an ordinary house?
• 788How should a priest serve at the altar?
• 789How can we preserve the sanctity of priestly garments?

On the Main Features of the Coptic Liturgy

Book 3 · questions 790–807

• 790What are the features of Egyptian liturgy?
• 791Which eucharistic Liturgies does the Coptic Church currently use?
• 792What are the main sections of the Coptic Liturgy?
• 793Who reads the readings from scripture?
• 794Who delivers the sermon?
• 795What do the faithful do after the readings and the sermon?
• 796Why is the holy kiss exchanged in the Divine Liturgy?
• 797How do we begin the Liturgy of the Faithful?
• 798Can someone leave before the Liturgy of the Faithful ends?
• 799Who has the right to receive holy communion?
• 800What does the Church focus on during the partaking of the Holy Mysteries?
• 801What is the role of the congregation in the Divine Liturgy?
• 802What do the priest and congregation say during the partaking of the Body and Blood?
• 803What are the characteristics of the bread that is offered as the Lamb?
• 804Of what does St. Basil the Great warn the priests when they are partaking of the blood of Christ?
• 805How should the priest and the congregation feel while receiving holy communion?
• 806What is the relationship between the eucharist and our awaiting the second coming of Christ the Lord?
• 807How does the eucharist support the unity of the faithful together?

21. The Sacrament of Priesthood

Book 3 · questions 808–841

• 808What is the biblical and ecclesial understanding of the ranks of the priesthood?
• 809What are the limits of the episcopacy?
• 810What are the chief qualities that qualify a believer for priesthood and pastoral service?¹⁵⁷⁸
• 811What is the work of the heavenly High Priest in the life of His priests, their preaching, and their pastoral work?
• 812How did Christ the Lord appoint His twelve disciples and seventy apostles?
• 813How did the apostles appoint priests in every church?
• 814What is the role of the priest or bishop as a father?
• 815What is the role of the priest or bishop as a physician?
• 816What is the correct understanding of the leadership of clergymen, fathers, servants, and all Church leaders?
• 817What is the role of the priest or bishop in offering sacrifices?
• 818What is the role of the priest or bishop as an interpreter of scripture?
• 819What is the role of the priest or bishop with regards to education?
• 820What is the role of priests or bishops as pillars of the church?
• 821What is the bishop’s responsibility in discipling new generations of bishops and priests?
• 822How approach should the priests take in dealing with people’s sins? And what is their authority?¹⁶²⁷
• 823How can the priest examine himself in order not to lose his authority?¹⁶³¹
• 824How dangerous is vainglory for bishops?
• 825How was Moses a brilliant example of how to appoint a successor?
• 826Who is the true bishop in the eyes of God?
• 827Why did Moses clothe Aaron, the high priest, and his sons (Lev. 8:7, 13)?
• 828What is the priest’s portion of the peace offering?
• 829Is it necessary for the hearts of the priests to never depart from dwelling in God’s house?
• 830Why is the priest committed to a life of continual prayer?
• 831What is the general priesthood?
• 832What is the nature of the relationship between the clergy and the congregation?
• 833Do a priest’s administrative duties hinder his internal liberation?
• 834Do the responsibilities of one’s local diocese hinder one from actively participating in the universal Church?
• 835What are the most dangerous pitfalls to which priests, shepherds, and servants are prone?¹⁷⁰²
• 836What practical remedies can be offered to shepherds (or pastors)?
• 837Does the bishop need the prayers of his congregation?
• 838Why does God sometimes allow priests and bishops to be overcome by their own passions and weaknesses?
• 839How can believers who desire to consecrate their lives to God decide on whether to take the path of service or that of monasticism?
• 840How was the archbishop John Chrysostom successful in his pastoral work?
• 841What concepts did St. Ephrem the Syrian and St. Jacob of Sarug use when writing a eulogy to mourn a priest who had departed?

22. The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony

Book 3 · questions 842–866

• 842What was the first ever marriage?
• 843What is our understanding of Christian marriage?
• 844What do we mean when we say that marriage is from God?
• 845What do we mean when we say that marriage is a holy mystery?
• 846Why did Christ begin His ministry by attending the wedding at Cana of Galilee?
• 847What is the pillar of marital life?
• 848How did Christ fulfil the commandment: “a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Gen. 2:24; Matt. 19:5)?
• 849How should a married couple view procreation?
• 850What makes a husband and wife equal?
• 851What is the correct understanding of the wife’s submission to her husband?
• 852To what extent is one responsible for one’s own spiritual life?
• 853Should the wife obey her husband if he asks her to break one of God’s commandments?
• 854What is the role of the wife as a helper to her husband?
• 855What is the secret behind a wife’s true beauty?
• 856Is it necessary for marriage to be between two believers?
• 857Can one spouse deprive the other of sexual intercourse?
• 858What is the role of Christ and the Church in the Christian family?
• 859What are the main rules that must govern a family?
• 860Is a life of celibacy holy in the eyes of God?
• 861Why did the Law of Moses allow divorce?
• 862Is it lawful for widows or widowers, or divorced men or women to remarry?
• 863Is it lawful for a man or woman to continue to live with a spouse who has committed adultery and refused repentance?
• 864What is St. John Chrysostom’s advice to parents about raising their children?
• 865What are the most important practical pieces of advice that St. John Chrysostom gives to parents?
• 866What is the best advice we can offer to our children?

23. Unction of the Sick

Book 3 · questions 867–869

• 867Why did James the Apostle talk about the unction of the sick?
• 868How did the Church Fathers comment on the words of James the Apostle: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:14–16)?
• 869What do we receive in the joyful sacraments of the Church?

24. The Coptic Church and the Monastic Movement

Book 3 · questions 870–877

• 870Is asceticism, as it is practiced in the Coptic Church, biblical?
• 871What is the goal of ascetic life according to the Copts?
• 872What is the motive of asceticism for the Copts?
• 873What is the relationship between asceticism and the ecclesiastical life?
• 874How did the monastic movement start in Egypt?
• 875Who were the most important monastic leaders?
• 876How did Egyptian monasticism influence the Christian world?
• 877What is the Coptic monastic movement today?