Prothesis / The Ultimate Humility
One of the traditional icons to be placed at the Table of Preparation, also known as the Table of Prothesis, is the icon of the “Akra Tapinosi,” The Ultimate Humility. This icon portrays Christ on the Cross as He is crucified for us and for our salvation. As the Divine Liturgy is the bloodless sacrifice, the connection between the Blood of Christ shed on the Cross and the Holy Gifts offered to become the Body and Blood of Christ in the Divine Liturgy is made present by the placement of this icon at the place where the Holy Gifts are first being prepared in the Church.