Subscribe: https://youtube.com/StJohnDC?sub_confirmation=1
The Divine Liturgy, Part 9
"Blessed is the Kingdom" and the Great Litany
Talk by Metropolitan Jonah 
July 14, 2026

Topics discussed include:
(1) Historical development of the Liturgy (e.g., Antiphons in procession from the Bishop's residence, and the use of silent prayers);
(2) Presence of Catechumens and non-Communicants in the Liturgy in ancient and modern times;
(3) Hand-washing by Bishops and Priests; 
(4) Christ is perpetually offering himself as a living sacrifice to the Father, because of His resurrection, as Great High Priest (and we in Him). He is offering thanks to the Father on our behalf (He is us and we in Him); 
(5) Blessed is the Kingdom" and the Divine Liturgy as a revelation and locus of the Kingdom of God.
(6) "In peace let us pray to the Lord": The importance of peace, not just a quiet mind free of distractions, but being spiritually attentive and watchful to maintain the presence of Christ and the grace of the Holy Spirit. Focus wholly on God, not double-minded; 
(7) The Eucharist as spiritual nourishment: to be preserved in watchfulness until the next Liturgy;
(8) The synergistic "symbiotic" relationship between personal prayer and the Divine Liturgy. Each helps the other to be experienced more fully.