What Should I Expect When I First Step Into An Orthodox Church?
You will experience a sensory smorgasbord of sights, sounds and smell. You’ll first notice that the fragrant scent of the church is a surprise. If you’re there for a service, you’ll see folks milling about, lighting candles (a symbol of Christ) and offering prayers before colorful paintings, icons including icons of Jesus and His Mother (known by the original Greek of “Theotokos” which means “Mother of God”). Usually, someone will come up to you and welcome you, perhaps asking your name so the Priest can welcome you after the service.
When you enter into the church itself, you might be surprised to see folks doing things quite differently from each other. Some may be standing in silent prayer. Some may be seated in quiet contemplation. Some may be doing prostrations in front of the icons. Others may be blessing themselves with the sign of the cross. As long as you are quiet and respectful, there is no right or wrong way to worship Christ. While the Orthodox Church is charismatic, it is an orderly charisma, so speaking in tongues is prohibited. All stand when there is a procession with holy items (Gospel, Chalice), when the clergy incenses the church and when Scripture is read. However, if you have physical issues that make standing difficult, please remain seated. While only Orthodox Christians in good standing and who are prepared to received the Gifts may participate in Communion, all may partake of the bread at the end of Liturgy (called “Antidoron” or “In place of the Gifts”).
At the conclusion of the service, all are welcomed to come through the line to kiss (venerate) the Cross and take a piece of the Antidoron. You are welcome to join the faithful in the Fellowship Hall to enjoy some refreshments and allow the community to welcome you into their midst. You may be surprised to see folks greet each other with three kisses on the cheek, a traditional greeting. However, you are not obliged to do so if you would prefer. Nearly anyone with whom you strike up a conversation would be glad to help you understand the myriad of sensations, as you see how the Orthodox worships God with. God is not merely a metaphysical concept for the Orthodox – we reach out and literally touch him through His Holy Body and Blood. If you must leave right after the service is over, please give your contact information to someone so the priest can follow up with a call to explain how happy the community was to have you in their midst – and to invite you to return!