ⲡⲓⲯⲁⲗⲧⲓⲥ (Chanter)
In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; One God. Amen.
The ordination of an individual to the rank of chanter is at the discretion and calling of the father the priest. Upon seeing that an individual satisfies the below requirements, and that the church has need for more chanters, the priest may choose to call an individual to the service of chanter. If the individual accepts, he can begin the process of examination outlined below. Then, his name is submitted to His Eminence the Metropolitan Abba Youssef or HG Bishop Basil for ordination.
Character and Habit Requirements
- At least 6 Years Old
- 80% Attendance in Weekly Divine Liturgy
- 80% Attendance in Weekly Vespers and Praises
- Regularly receiving the Mysteries: Confession and the Eucharist
- Proper attire and general appearance: clothes, hair, nails, etc.
- Not under the sway of bad habits (smoking, vaping, alcohol)
- Regular attendance and participation in Weekly Sunday School and Hymns School classes and activities
Proficiency Requirements
- Demonstrate Proficiency in the congregation responses of the Divine Liturgy
- Demonstrate Proficiency in having memorized the Orthodox Creed (We believe in one God...)
* Denotes a Diocese Requirement
Examination
The candidate must pass an oral exam that includes all of the following:
- Includes all hymns from the Annual Sunday Liturgy (see resources below)
- Includes Agpeya Prayers #4, 5, 6 (reading)
- Includes the Orthodox Creed (memorized)
- Includes the Lord's Prayer (memorized)
- To lead the congregation in the chanting of hymns and praises
- To chant in one voice with the chorus of deacons
- To continue to learn more hymns and praises, including the long hymns for all seasons
Tonias must have crosses and should NOT have pictures of saints on them.
The Chanter does not wear any stole (badrasheil).
