What is the table used to distribute Holy Communion to the congregation in the Coptic Orthodox Church?

By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10

In the Coptic Orthodox Church, there is no permanent "table" used for the distribution of Holy Communion to the congregation like those found in some Western or Protestant traditions. Instead, the administration of the Mysteries is centered around the Altar and the Sanctuary Entrance.

However, there is a specific liturgical practice and a piece of furniture that might be what you are referring to:

1. The Communion Throne or Small Stand

In many Coptic churches, a small, portable wooden stand (often shaped like a lectern or a small stool with a flat top) is placed at the entrance of the Sanctuary when it is time for the congregation to receive the Mysteries.

• Purpose: This stand is used to hold the poterion - Chalice or the diskos - Paten if the priest or deacon needs a surface to rest them on momentarily, though they are typically held by the clergy.
• The Cloths: This stand is always covered with a linen cloth, as nothing sacred may touch a bare surface.

2. The Use of the "Spoon" and Chalice

While the priest gives the Holy Body, the deacon stands with him holding the Holy Blood in the Chalice. As noted in historical commentaries on the Coptic rite, the priest may use a liturgical spoon to administer the Blood to the faithful. The transition from the Altar to the people happens at the "Royal Doors" (the central door of the Iconostasis).

3. The "Table of the Lord" vs. The "Table of Demons"

Theologically, St. Paul refers to the Table of the Lord in 1 Corinthians 10:21. In Coptic theology, this "Table" is the Altar itself. There is no separation between the "table" where the sacrifice is made and the "table" where it is received; they are one and the same. As the Church Fathers, such as St. John Chrysostom and St. John of Damascus, explain:

• The Altar is the "Table" from which we participate in the divinity of Jesus.
• Receiving from this Table unites the congregation into one body.

4. Important Distinction Regarding the Congregation

When the congregation approaches to receive, there are strict requirements:

• They must be fasting for at least nine hours (or since midnight).
• They must be baptized Coptic Orthodox (or in full communion).
• As mentioned in traditional guides, a deacon stands with a cloth to wipe the mouths of the communicants after they receive to ensure no portion of the Mysteries falls to the ground.

In summary, if you see a physical "table" at the front of the church during communion, it is a temporary, portable stand used strictly for the convenience and safety of the clergy while they hold the Holy Mysteries at the Sanctuary entrance. The only true "Table" recognized in the rite is the Consecrated Altar inside the Sanctuary.