Categories: orthodox-life
Date: 06 September 2004 02:51:06
A noticeable difference between Orthodoxy and "western" Christianity (for want of a better label), is the lack of any form of "said" service in Orthodoxy. The entire service (bar the sermon and the Creed) is chanted, which is a great aid to me in remembering both Scripture and the beautiful liturgy of the Orthodox Church.
I find myself spontaneously chanting a portion of a Psalm, or some other part of the liturgy, at various times and places during the day: while I'm making a cup of tea; while I'm driving; even when I'm having a shower. I freely admit that my Biblical knowledge is somewhat lacking, yet hearing Psalms and other Scripture chanted, or through my participation in chanting, I'm finding Scripture slowly seeps into my dull brain. It is a great comfort and blessing to be able to retrieve certain passages during the day.
The parishioners in my parish are not shy when it comes to chanting either, which is another blessing. The various hymns sung when they partake of communion are sung heartily and with great gusto, as are the responses throughout the service. They are happy to proclaim their faith and the faith of the Church, and no matter how tired I feel at the beginning of a service, I'm always left wanting more as it draws to a close.
Thanks be to God.