Casting lots?

[MichaelGWBurke]

I read somewhere that the Constitution of the Serbian Orthodox Church prescribes selecting a Patriarch by the casting of lots (after the candidates have been narrowed down to three.)

I know the casting of lots is an ancient practice, and I'm interested in how it's done today.

Is the casting of the lots accompanied by prayer?

And are any standard, written words used?

 

[ArmyMatt]

Is the casting of the lots accompanied by prayer?

oh yes

And are any standard, written words used?

I would say yes, and I am sure there are some personal, quiet prayers that are done as well.

 

[E.C.]

If I remember correctly, I believe that the Serbian Church takes either a Bible or a Gospel Book and places three envelopes with the names of the respective candidates in it. Somebody, who has not seen these envelopes, is brought in to take an envelope and that is the new patriarch. I believe that this person is usually either a monk or a small child. Prayers are prayed during the whole process.

The Coptic Church in Egypt employs a similar practice. They will narrow it down to thee people and paper with their names on them are placed inside of a chalice. A small child, who is blindfolded, is brought in to remove the name of the new patriarch. Prayers are prayed during the whole process.