Yes. Non-Orthodox visitors are generally welcome to attend Orthodox church services. You do not need to understand every action or know all the prayers before entering an Orthodox church.
Do visitors have to participate in everything?
No. It is perfectly acceptable to observe respectfully. Orthodox services include standing, sitting, making the sign of the Cross, bowing, venerating icons, and other practices. A visitor does not need to imitate actions that he or she does not yet understand.
May a visitor light a candle or venerate an icon?
Visitors may commonly light candles and may respectfully venerate icons if they wish. Our guide to Orthodox Church Etiquette for Visitors provides more detail.
May a non-Orthodox visitor receive Holy Communion?
Ordinarily, no. Orthodox Holy Communion expresses full sacramental unity with the Orthodox Church and is normally received by properly prepared Orthodox Christians. This discipline does not mean visitors are unwelcome at the service.
Attending the Divine Liturgy is often the best way to begin understanding Orthodox worship as it is actually lived.
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Established with the blessing of V. Rev. Fr. Wiaczeslaw, Rector of Orthodox Christian Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (NY). |
