Korban (Holy Bread)

Korban, or Holy Bread, is prepared before the Divine Liturgy as an offering for the priest to choose the Lamb during the Offering of the Lamb.

Why Korban Matters

In the Coptic Orthodox Liturgy, the service begins with preparation and offering. Several loaves of korban are presented, and the priest chooses the most suitable loaf to become the Lamb. This chosen bread is offered on the altar and, through the prayers of the Church and the work of the Holy Spirit, becomes the Holy Body of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

Because the korban is prepared for this sacred use, it is never treated as ordinary bread. The ministry requires reverence, cleanliness, attention, quietness, and prayer. The servant who makes the korban is helping prepare what will be brought before God on behalf of the whole Church.

A Service Before Liturgy Begins

Korban service usually happens before the congregation arrives for worship. Servants prepare the dough, form the loaves, stamp them with the liturgical seal, bake them carefully, and make sure they are ready for the Offering of the Lamb. The work is practical, but it is also deeply spiritual: the hands are working, and the heart is preparing for liturgy.

• Prepare the Holy Bread before liturgy with care and cleanliness.
• Serve under the guidance of the clergy and ministry coordinator.
• Keep the preparation area clean, orderly, and prayerful.
• Arrive early enough for the bread to be ready before the Offering of the Lamb.
• Understand that this service supports the whole Eucharistic life of the parish.

Servant Requirements

Korban servants should be at least 10 years old and ordained as chanters. The usual time commitment is about 3 hours every 2 to 3 Sundays, depending on the serving rotation and liturgy schedule.

Getting Involved

Those interested in serving should contact the church or speak with the ministry coordinator. New servants should expect training, supervision, and a clear rhythm of service so the Holy Bread is prepared consistently and reverently.