Categories: uncategorized
Date: 28 April 2005 22:12:20
The Orthodox don't go for brevity in anything, and last night's service was a wonderful example of this. Six psalms, twelve Gospel readings, and many, many hymns -- full of deep imagery and even deeper theology. A candle is lit every time one of the Gospel readings is read: the light of Christ gets brighter with each reading. The priest carries the cross around the church in a procession chanting, "Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross" while we kneel. There is so much to the service, I cannot describe it all. If you get a chance to go next year, do so!
I felt a great sense of peace and calm, though sorrow as well at the betrayal and death of Christ, last night. I wasn't sure if I would go, as the depression was quite bad yesterday and I didn't feel like doing much except crawling into bed and having a good cry. But I am thankful I did go -- the sense of peace and the sense of being in the presence of God was a great help. I eagerly look forward to the Joy and Brightness of Pascha [Easter] this Saturday night!