Divine Liturgy and centrality of Eucharist

What it is: The Divine Liturgy occupies a central position in the life of the Russian Orthodox Church.

How the tradition understands it: The Eucharist is seen as real mystery of communion with Christ and as visible heart of the gathered church. Liturgy, sacraments, and calendar are strongly articulated around it.

Basis and context: The liturgies of Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Basil are main references.

Debates and variations: The basic form is stable, although chant, language, and some pastoral practices can vary.

Supportive

Liturgy of Saint Basil in Russian tradition

russian-orthodox-church,liturgy,saint-basil,byzantine

Solemn liturgical form used on important occasions of the calendar.

Reference: Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil in use in the Russian tradition.
Content: The liturgy presents extensive theological prayers and occupies special place on certain days of the year.
Use in debate: Important for Russian patristic and liturgical tradition.

Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom in Slavonic use

russian-orthodox-church,liturgy,john-chrysostom,eucharist

Central liturgical form of the Russian tradition.

Reference: Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom in Slavonic and Russian use.
Content: The text articulates offering, epiclesis, communion, and prayer in central structure of Russian liturgical tradition.
Use in debate: Primary source for the centrality of the Eucharist and liturgy.

Neutral

Council of Trent, Session XIII

council,trent,eucharist,transubstantiation

Catholic definition on the real presence and transubstantiation.

In Session XIII, the Council of Trent affirmed the true, real, and substantial presence of Christ in the Eucharist and used the language of transubstantiation. The text was formulated in the context of controversy with the Reformation and remains a central dogmatic reference for Catholic Eucharistic theology.