• The sacred place and indwelling house of God. Genesis 28:16-17; 1 Kings 9:1-3; 2 Chronicles 7:11-16
• The body of each and every Christian. John 14:23; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 3:20
• The communion of Christians. Matthew 18:20; Acts 8:1-3; 11:25-26; 1 Peter 5:13

Old Testament: The Ark of Noah, Bethel, The Tent of Meeting, Synagogue, The Temple of Solomon.

New Testament: Christ is the founder. St. John Chrysostom referred to Pentecost as: The birthday of the Church.

Types: Cave Churches, Round (Octagonal), and Cross-like (Rectangular).

Sections: Quine-Mahelet (Hymnody), Queddest (Communion), and Maqdes (Sanctuary for the Ark).

Bethlehem: House of bread; consecrated chamber for Eucharistic prep at the Eastern side.

Ostrich Eggs: Symbolize God's divine providence and constant contemplation on the rooftop.

Shoes: Removing shoes as a sign of reverence to the indwelling house of God. Exodus 3:5-6

• East is source of light (Christ, Sun of Righteousness). Malachi 4:2
• Garden of Eden was in the East; aspiration to Paradise. Genesis 2:8
• The glorious Second Coming of Christ will appear in the East. Acts 1:11

Types: Hand Crosses (Blessing), Processional Crosses, and Neck Crosses (Matab).

Materials: Wood (Crucifixion), Silver (Betrayal), and Golden (Purity/Kingship).

Incense symbolizes prayer with fragrant aroma ascending before God. Psalm 142:2

The Cloud: Refers to the divine presence and glory of the Lord. Leviticus 16:13

Oil: Symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Candles: Reminds us that saints were consumed with the fire of God’s love like melting wax.

• White: Purity/Grace
• Blue: Heavens/Divine Life
• Red: Life/Sacrifice
• Gold: Truth/Eternity
• Green: Hope/Revival
• Black: Renunciation/Mystery