Categories: orthodox-life
Date: 01 August 2004 10:39:32
I love an environment that is conducive to reflection before a service.
When I arrived at church this morning the Matin Psalms were already being chanted. My spirits were immediately lifted as I heard the sweet words.
After I entered the church, I lit a candle, said a silent prayer, and took my place. The Psalm chants continued. At various times after the Psalms, all present joined the choir in chanting, "Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to Holy Spirit. Now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen". While this continued, different members began their worship in many and varied ways: some, like me, listened to the Psalms; others walked a circuit around the church, kissing each icon; others were deep in prayer where they sit/stood; and others joined in with the choir in their chants.
At 10 the bell was rung, and the priest began the Divine Liturgy.