Page "Ablution in Christianity" Paragraph 11

The ablutions will normally be performed by the deacon, but if no deacon is serving the priest will do them.

After the Litany of Thanksgiving that follows Communion, the deacon will come into the sanctuary and kneel, placing his forehead on the Holy Table ( Altar ) and the priest will bless him to consume the Gifts, which is done at the Prothesis ( Table of Oblation ).

First, using the liturgical spoon he will consume all of the Body and Blood of Christ which remain in the chalice.

Then he will pour hot water on the diskos ( paten ), which is then poured into the chalice and consumed ( this is to consume any particles that may remain on the diskos ).

Next the liturgical spear, spoon and chalice will be rinsed first with wine and then with hot water, which are then consumed.

All of the sacred vessels are then wiped dry with a towel, wrapped in their cloth coverings and put away.