All About Altar Candelabra and Altar Robes

The altar is where the most significant parts of the liturgical services take place. Two of the most notable features of altars within the Orthodox church are altar candelabra and altar robes. In this blog, we look at these features in greater detail.

Altar Robes That Elevate Liturgical Beauty

Altar boys assist the clergy as they fulfill their duties during liturgical services in the church. The robes they wear, therefore, should not only reflect the sanctity of the work they do but also indicate the various duties they perform. Ordained services like the candle bearers wear altar robes that have open sides with buttons in place. Meanwhile, non-ordained altar boys have robes that have closed sides. The patterns on the fabrics are intricate and come in various designs with hand-embroidered crosses and velvet inserts. With the click of a few buttons, you can choose the altar robe of your choice of fabric, design, and color palette.

Altar Candelabra to Illuminate Liturgical Services

Seven-branched altar candelabra (candle stands) are very popular as a beacon of spiritual illumination within the ecclesiastical setting. They pay homage to the traditions of the Old Testament. While the original Menorah candlestands were hand-hammered from pure gold, the modern versions of these that are available online are made of brass. These candelabra that are hand-cast from brass are a much more affordable option. Expertly shaped by skilled metal smiths, each piece is polished to a lustrous finish. You can find traditional single-legged and double-legged styles that boast solid construction and intricate carvings. The attention to detail in the construction of the candelabra reflects a profound understanding of Orthodox liturgical art traditions. Available in various weights and sizes, the altar candelabra caters to diverse worship styles, budgets, and preferences.

Setting the Scene for Worship: Altar Candelabra and Altar Boy Robes

Altar candelabra and altar boy robes create a meaningful and dignified atmosphere during worship services in the Orthodox Christian Church. These two elements serve as important visual cues that help set the tone for the service and provide a sense of reverence and sanctity. Read on to know more.

Importance of Altar Candelabra in Worship

Altar candelabra are a type of freestanding candle holder that typically feature multiple branches or arms to hold candles. The term "candelabra" is derived from the Latin word "candelabrum," which means "candlestick." In the Orthodox Christian church, the candelabra is a significant and recognizable item used during worship services, inspiring the seven-branched design that represents the seven days of creation. They are symbolic of the light of Christ, representing the presence of God and his wisdom, truth, and guidance.

Elevating Worship with Stunning Altar Candelabra

The design and craftsmanship of altar candelabra are important as they serve not just as functional objects but also as symbols of faith. They are typically constructed from durable materials, such as brass, with intricate designs that add to their aesthetic appeal. The branches of candelabra are carefully crafted, often with gold plating for added elegance. Some candelabra may have two stands for added stability and are available in different sizes to accommodate various worship spaces. When choosing candelabra, it is essential to consider the workmanship, material, and design of the pieces. Well-crafted candelabra can elevate worship by adding to the sanctity of the worship space.

Significance of Altar Boy Robes

Altar boys serve as assistants to the clergy, performing important duties during liturgical functions and ceremonies. In order to properly carry out their duties, it's essential that they dress in accordance with liturgical guidelines. Altar boy robes are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and made from premium, carefully selected fabrics. The robes can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and customized fit. The intricate designs and hand-embroidered crosses will help exude a sense of reverence and devotion as you serve in your sacred role.

Church Candle Stands seen in the Orthodox Church

 

In a church, the lighting of candles can impart a sense of the Divine and is strongly associated with tradition and prayers. It is common to see different types of church candle stands such as the Dikiriy-Trikirys, Paschal Candleholders, and the Altar Candelabra. Here is a look at the significance of some of the different types of church candle stands in the Orthodox Church.

Dikiriy-Trikirys

The Dikiriy-Trikirys, also called the Dikirion and Trikirion are liturgical candlestands used to bless the clergy and the congregation in an Eastern Orthodox Church by Bishop. The Dikirion is a candlestand that can hold two candles, representing the dual nature of Jesus, wherein He is God who became man. The Trikirion holds three candles that represent the Holy Trinity. The Dikiriy-Trikirys are elaborately designed and are usually used in a hierarchical Divine Liturgy.

Paschal candlestands

Paschal candle stands, also called the paschal trikirion can hold three candles. Unlike the Dikiriy-Trikirys, which are only used by Bishops, the Paschal trikirionis are used by all Priests during the Paschal (Easter) vigil and other times. It is held by the Priest in his left hand during the chanting of the Paschal verses at the beginning of the Matins, Vespers, and Divine Liturgy. It is also used when the liturgical censer is used or when giving the Paschal greeting.

Altar Candelabra

Perhaps the most ornate of all the church candle stands is the Altar Candelabra. It is a candle stand that has seven branches. The design of the Altar Candelabra is detailed in the Bible with instructions for its construction. The Altar Candelabra will not be found in normal church supply stores, and they have to be sourced from special shops selling high-quality liturgical items.

Traditionally, the Altar Candelabra is supposed to be made of gold. But this may not be possible as brass or gold plating is often used instead. They may also have jewel inlays and icon representations. Since the design of the Altar Candelabra is given in the Bible, design variation is limited, but they may feature a few minor variations such as a one or two-leg candelabra or different sizes.

Quality Bespoke Liturgical Vestments for all Your Church Needs

Leading online sites are a great place to purchase high quality, beautiful liturgical vestments. Each garment, such as the Altar Robes reflect the very best in workmanship and expertise.

Decorative and Custom Made Liturgical Vestments

Church vestments are a vital part of church life, and they play a role that befitting of a Priest or Deacon. The garments add to the drama and help to emphasize the reason behind being worn. You can also buy decorative buttons of different types to complete the look of the vestment. The buttons may be of gold or silver, some ancient and others plastic. Vestments decoration in the form of buttons is used with precision and attention to detail. The number of buttons varies from a cassock to a Sakkos or an Epitrachelion. Online stores also supply custom-made vestments for Russian or Greek priests, Bishops, altar server sticharions, and Priest’s mitre, among many others. You may choose from rayon brocade to natural German velvet in all liturgical color combinations. You can buy metal buttons in bulk because of their primary function of tightening stoles across the shoulder or to fasten the vestments in the front or at the back. When you buy vestments, you will be surprised to know that they often come with similar patterned buttons which enhances the effect of the garment.

Functional and Authentic Altar Robes

In most Orthodox churches, an altar server ensures that the younger Christians find ways to be active and take part in liturgical ceremonies and functions. Very often, they act as assistants to the clergy, and therefore their vestments are also of importance and distinct to their role and position. Altar servers include Readers and Candle Bearers who wear open and buttoned sides’ stikharions. On the other hand, young servers that are blessed but not ordained wear robes that are completely closed on the sides. Suppliers take great interest in ensuring that only appropriate vestments are granted to altar servers. You can customize the fabric, size, and patterns that specifically suitable for you or the entire parish. Embroidered designs and intricate patterns are usually complemented with velvet inserts of the highest quality. Altar Robes are designed to serve their function and fulfill the clergy’s purposes. 

Top suppliers provide only the very best in liturgical vestments decoration, and apparel. These church supplies are carefully selected, masterfully crafted, and mission-oriented.