The Great Entrance procession symbolizes Christ's Great Sacrifice in behalf of the people. The elements of bread and wine on the Diskarion and in the Potirion represent the Sacrifice which is to be offered. The procession is reminiscent of Jesus' Entrance into Jerusalem and culminates with the Cross at Golgotha. As the thief on Jesus' right said,"Be mindful of me, O Lord, when Thou comest into Thy Kingdom;" so the Priest in behalf of the faithful says, "Be mindful of us, O Lord, when Thou comest into Thy Kingdom."

The Priest then re-enters the sanctuary through the Royal Doors, places the Gifts on the Antimins (a cloth depicting Christ in the Tomb) which lies there unfolded on the altar table. Then begins another series of petitions to which the choir responds. The Priest prays for peace, safety, and remission of sins. He then asks for the spirit of unity that all together may confess their Faith in the form of the Nicene Creed.