The rite of consecration to the priesthood has been preserved in the Orthodox Church since apostolic times. In the 2nd canon of the Holy Apostles it is decreed that one bishop should ordain a presbyter. In the Apostolic Decrees, the rite of presbyter consecration is prescribed to be performed by the laying on of the saint's hands on the head of the consecrated with prayer (Book 8, ch. 14). Dionysius the Areopagite says the following about the consecration of a presbyter: "The consecrated, kneeling both knees before the altar, has on his head the right hand of the bishop and is thus sanctified by the holy invocations, sealed with the sign of the cross and the greeting of the clergy."

2. The Scheme of the Rite of Consecration to the Priesthood

Placing air on the chapter of the consecrated in the Cherubic Hymn The transfer of air to the deacon

The exclamation: "Command..., command..., command, Your Grace Vladyka"

The protégé walks around the altar three times during the singing of the troparia

Kneeling before the Holy See

Placing the edge of the omophorion on the head of the person to be consecrated

Bishop's blessing

The laying on of the bishop's hand on the head of the consecrated

The Mystery Prayer: "Divine Grace..."

"Kyrie, Eleison"

Two Prayers The Litany of Peace

Vesting in the stole, belt, phelonion, presentation of the cross and service book with the exclamation: "Axios"