Alexandrian liturgical rites

Alexandrian Rite
The Coptic cross, a symbol often associated with the Alexandrian Rite
Type	Eastern Christian
Classification	Oriental Orthodox
Orientation	Liturgical
Scripture	Bible
Theology	Miaphysitism
Polity	Episcopal
Region	Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea
Founder	Saint Mark the Evangelist
Origin	1st century AD Alexandria, Egypt
Separated from	Church of Alexandria
Congregations	Numerous
Members	Millions

The Alexandrian Rite is one of the several liturgical rites used by the Oriental Orthodox Churches, particularly the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, and the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church. It is named after the city of Alexandria, where it originated, and is characterized by its unique liturgical traditions, language, and theological emphases.

Historical Background

The Alexandrian Rite traces its origins to the early Christian community in Alexandria, founded by Saint Mark the Evangelist in the 1st century AD. Alexandria was a major center of early Christianity and played a crucial role in the development of Christian theology and liturgy. The rite developed in the context of the Coptic language and culture, which was the dominant language of Egypt at the time.

Liturgical Language

The primary liturgical language of the Alexandrian Rite is Coptic, which is the last stage of the Egyptian language. In the Ethiopian and Eritrean traditions, Ge'ez is used. Both languages are considered sacred and are used in the liturgical services, although vernacular languages may also be used for the benefit of the congregation.

Liturgical Structure

The Alexandrian Rite is known for its rich and elaborate liturgical structure. The main components of the rite include:

The Divine Liturgy

The central act of worship in the Alexandrian Rite is the Divine Liturgy, which is the celebration of the Eucharist. There are three main liturgies used:

• The Liturgy of Saint Basil
• The Liturgy of Saint Gregory
• The Liturgy of Saint Cyril

Each of these liturgies has its own unique prayers and hymns, but they all follow a similar structure, including the Anaphora, which is the Eucharistic prayer.

The Hours

The daily cycle of prayers, known as the Agpeya in the Coptic tradition, consists of seven canonical hours, each with its own set of psalms, hymns, and prayers. These hours are:

• The First Hour (Prime)
• The Third Hour (Terce)
• The Sixth Hour (Sext)
• The Ninth Hour (None)
• The Eleventh Hour (Vespers)
• The Twelfth Hour (Compline)
• The Midnight Hour

The Sacraments

The Alexandrian Rite includes the seven sacraments of the Church: Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, Confession, Matrimony, Holy Orders, and Unction of the Sick. Each sacrament has its own specific rites and prayers.

Theological Emphasis

The Alexandrian Rite is deeply rooted in the Miaphysite theology, which emphasizes the unity of the divine and human natures in the person of Jesus Christ. This theological perspective is reflected in the liturgical texts and hymns, which often focus on the mystery of the Incarnation and the redemptive work of Christ.

Influence and Spread

The Alexandrian Rite has had a significant influence on the liturgical practices of other Christian traditions, particularly in Africa. The Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Churches have adapted the rite to their own cultural contexts, incorporating local languages and customs while maintaining the core elements of the Alexandrian tradition.

Conclusion

The Alexandrian Rite is a testament to the rich liturgical and theological heritage of the Oriental Orthodox Churches. Its unique blend of ancient Egyptian culture, Christian theology, and liturgical practice continues to inspire and nurture the faith of millions of believers around the world.

See also

• Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria
• Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church
• Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church
• Oriental Orthodoxy

References

• Coptic Church historical texts
• Liturgical studies on the Alexandrian Rite