Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

What is the relationship between bells and the church? When and where did the tradition begin? Should bells ring in every church?

The use of bells was common prior to the modern means of communication. They resemble a beautiful, peaceful, melodic, and joyful call. Bells are still tolled in monasteries and small communities as a non-disruptive practical reminder of the call to prayer, meals, etc. They are symbolic of joy for when the presiding bishop, a visiting bishop, or a patriarch arrives at a church or monastery. Many churches and monasteries also ring the bells at the beginning of the Divine Liturgies. If and when possible, every church and monastery should keep the tradition of the bells.
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