antimensia

An antimensia is a liturgical cloth used in the Eastern Orthodox Church and certain Eastern Catholic traditions. It is a consecrated altar cloth that typically bears a depiction of the burial of Christ, along with the relics of a saint or martyr sewn into it. The antimensia serves as a portable altar, allowing for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy in places where a permanent altar is not available or has not yet been consecrated.

The use of the antimensia is a centuries-old practice. Its origins are often traced back to the early Christian persecution, when believers would gather in secret locations and celebrate the Eucharist on cloths containing the relics of martyrs, as a sign of their unity with the faith and sacrifice. The relic is essential, signifying the church as the mystical body of Christ and the congregation as living stones in the spiritual temple.

Before the Divine Liturgy can be celebrated upon it, the antimensia must be consecrated by a bishop. During the consecration, prayers are offered, and the bishop often anoints the cloth with holy chrism. The antimensia is then placed on the altar and remains there throughout the service. After the liturgy, it is typically folded and stored in a designated place on the altar. Its presence on the altar is a reminder of the sacrifice of Christ and the communion of saints.