Preparing Prosforo Bread for the Divine Liturgy

The recipe below is for the preparation of Prosforo bread, which is then to be brought to the Church for offering in the Divine Liturgy.

Ingredients:
6 cups flour (sifted)
2 cups warm water (110 degrees)
1 Prosforo Seal
1 teaspoon salt
2 cakes or packs of yeast for imprinting seal

Instructions:
Dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add salt and flour and knead until smooth. Place in the bowl, cover, and let rise. When it doubles in size, knead again. Then divide dough in half and put in cake pans that have been floured only (no grease). Dip seal in flour and stamp bread firmly to leave a clean imprint. Use a toothpick to place a few small holes around the edge of the seal. Let rise again about 1 hour, then bake for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees or until light brown.

Prepare a list of names of Orthodox Christians who you would like commemorated in the service. Use first names only. On the left side, write "Living" at the top and list the names below. On the right side, write "Departed" and write the names of departed below. Bring the list and the bread to the Church before the start of Orthros (or the day before).

Note: It is traditional to have an icon and a lighted candle in the area where the Prosforo is being prepared, as it is an offering of faith. The Jesus Prayer may be used during the preparation.