The Prosphoron: More than Fancy-looking Bread

A significant aspect of worship in the Orthodox Church is the prosphoron, or holy bread (plural “prosphora”). From the Greek meaning “offering,” prosphora occupy a central place in the Liturgy. Most importantly, the Lamb – the portion of bread that becomes the Body of Christ- is taken from the prosphoron. It is imprinted with a stamp; usually a cross with the letters IC-XC NI-KA (“Jesus Christ conquers”).

Baking prosphora is, then, a matter of great responsibility. Those who are tasked with doing so are usually parish volunteers or members of the parish sisterhood, continuing the early Church practice of bringing bread as an offering to the services. Traditionally, the bread that is used for the Lamb contains only flour, water, and salt (as well as yeast if a starter is not used). Depending on local tradition, bakers may prepare through confession,fasting and prayer. Special prayers are read before, during, and after the baking process.