First, the Euanghelion, which consists of extracts from the four Gospels, and is read during the celebration of the Liturgy, of which it forms a part. The portions appointed for Sundays and festivals are also read on the eve of these days, and form the conclusion of the Vesper service.
Shlieha, literally the Apostle, consists of extracts from S. Paul's Epistles only, and is read during the celebration of the Communion office. These two form separate volumes.
Karyane, Readings or Lessons,4 consists of extracts from the Old Testament and the Acts of the Apostles. The First Karyâna is always from the Old Testament, and in a few cases the second Lesson also; but this latter is more generally taken from the Acts of the Apostles.
The above three rituals form a part of the Eucharistic office, or Liturgy, and are read in the following order: the Karyâna first, then the Shlieha, and lastly, the Euanghelion. The Karyâna is read by the Karoya, or Reader, one of the minor orders, at the door of the altar, on the south side; and the Shlieha by the Hypodiakon on the north side. The Euanghelion is read by the officiating priest in front of the altar; but whilst reading all these three turn their faces to the congregation. Should a Shammâsha Euanghelaya,5 or one who has attained to the full order of Deacon, be present, it is customary for the priest to direct him to read the Gospel.
Unless a priest has a Shammâsha, i. e., a deacon or assistant of one of the three orders above mentioned to serve with him, the Liturgy cannot be celebrated. And if only one is present, be he of either of these orders, it is usual for him to read the Lesson and Epistle.
Besides the Euanghelion, Shlieha, and Karyâné, the Nestorians have another book called Turgama, literally Interpretation, consisting of a collection of hymns, calling upon the faithful to give ear to the words of the New Testament, with other pious exhortations bearing upon the same subject. Portions of this book are appointed to be read before the Epistle and Gospel.6 The Chaldeans have almost discontinued the use of this ritual, as it is only used by them on great festivals, and when high mass is celebrated. The Turgâmé are chanted responsively by the officiating deacons around the altar.
c 2
