The first time
The First Time at an Orthodox Liturgy
The first time at an Orthodox Christian Divine Liturgy, your senses may be filled at once: icons and candles, incense, chanting, and long stretches of standing. It is designed to feel like heaven touching earth. You are welcome to come, stand or sit as you are able, and simply take it in. Here is a respectful guide to what you will see so the unfamiliar beauty feels less bewildering and more like an invitation.
What you may be feeling
You might feel unsure why people cross themselves, bow, or kiss icons, or wonder when to stand and sit, or how long it all lasts (often well over an hour). That unfamiliarity is normal. Orthodox worship is ancient and rich, and no newcomer is expected to know it. Standing quietly toward the back and observing with an open heart is a completely respectful way to attend.
What you will see
Orthodox churches are full of icons (painted images of Christ and the saints), candles, and incense, all meant to draw the whole person into worship. Much of the service is sung or chanted, and people traditionally stand for long portions, though seating is usually available for those who need it. You will see worshippers making the sign of the cross and bowing; you are free to simply stand respectfully.
About communion
In the Orthodox Church, communion is normally reserved for Orthodox Christians who have prepared to receive it, so as a visitor you would not take it; you are warmly welcome to be present and pray. At the end, blessed bread (called antidoron) is often offered to everyone, visitors included, as a sign of hospitality. When unsure of any custom, watching quietly is always welcome. You came to seek God, and that is the heart of it.
A prayer you can borrow
There is no rush
You do not have to decide anything tonight. You can read a few lines, close the page, and come back tomorrow, or never. Nobody here is keeping score, and you owe no one an answer. When you are ready, and only then, the gentlest place to meet Jesus is in his own words, watching how he treats the tired, the ashamed, and the ones everybody else gave up on.
Read a little of the Gospel of JohnSomeone can pray with youWho is Jesus?Jesus Christ is Lord.
Frequently asked questions
- What happens at an Orthodox Divine Liturgy?
- An Orthodox liturgy is rich with icons, candles, incense, and chanting, and much of it is sung. Worshippers traditionally stand for long portions, make the sign of the cross, and venerate icons. It is designed to draw the whole person into worship, like heaven touching earth.
- Can a visitor take communion at an Orthodox church?
- Normally no; in the Orthodox Church communion is reserved for Orthodox Christians who have prepared to receive it. As a visitor you are warmly welcome to attend and pray, and at the end blessed bread (antidoron) is often offered to everyone as a sign of hospitality.