Visiting an Orthodox Church
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Christian Church in Missoula, Montana
Guests in an Orthodox Church often find themselves captivated by its unique features and the striking differences compared to other Western Christian traditions. The vibrant colors, distinctive iconography, and overall beauty of the Orthodox church interior starkly contrast with the more subdued aesthetics found in many Roman Catholic and Protestant churches. Entering an Orthodox church feels like stepping into a vibrant world of color and light. The design and art of the church create a special atmosphere that not only enhances worship but also reflects and embodies core Orthodox beliefs.
Beauty and Symbols
In the Orthodox Church, we believe that God, as the Creator of heaven and earth, is present through His creation. This belief affirms that the material world, as described in Genesis 1:31 as "good," is a vital way through which God expresses His love.
Orthodox practice incorporates the material world extensively, not only to beautify places of worship but also in the Holy Eucharist, sacraments, and other prayer services. For instance, the bread and wine offered in the Holy Eucharist are seen as symbolic gifts of all creation to God, reflecting the Church’s central act of thanksgiving during the Divine Liturgy.
The interior of an Orthodox church is designed to be a place of beauty, expressing joy and gratitude for God’s blessings. Orthodoxy values beauty as a crucial aspect of human experience, using iconography and church decorations to honor the Triune God. The beauty of the material world is shaped by human hands into a form that glorifies the Creator, echoing the Gospel story of the pious woman who anointed Christ’s feet with precious oil.
Sacred Space
The interior of an Orthodox church serves as both the backdrop and the setting for worship. Its art and architecture are crafted to engage the mind, emotions, and senses, creating a space where the sacraments and divine presence are felt. The church is viewed as the ‘House of God’ and a place where His glory resides. While God is present everywhere, the church’s design helps elevate worship and prayer, making it a dedicated sacred space.
Typically, an Orthodox church is relatively small to foster a sense of community. It is often built in the shape of a cross and divided into three main sections:
- Narthex: The entrance area where worshippers make offerings, receive a candle, and place it before an icon, offering personal prayers before joining the congregation.
- Nave: The central space where the community gathers for worship. It may have pews or be open with few seats. The bishop’s chair is often on the right, symbolizing the connection to the diocese. The pulpit, usually on the left, is where the Gospel is read and sermons are delivered. The baptismal font and choir spaces are also located here.
- Sanctuary: The most sacred area, reserved for clergy, containing the Holy Altar and separated from the nave by the Iconostasis.
The Altar
The Altar, or Holy Table, is the central focus of the Orthodox church. It is here that the Eucharistic gifts of bread and wine are offered to God, as commanded by Christ at the Last Supper. The Altar is usually square, covered with cloths, and often includes a tabernacle for reserved Holy Communion. When not in use for the Divine Liturgy, the Book of Gospels is placed on the Altar, and a large cross depicting the crucified Christ is positioned behind it, sometimes with the bishop’s chair.
Iconostasis (Icon screen)
The Iconostasis is the screen adorned with icons that separates the sanctuary from the nave. It evolved from the ancient practice of placing icons on a low wall to a standing screen. Today, it can range from very elaborate, covering most of the sanctuary, to simpler versions.
Icons
Icons are sacred images central to Orthodox worship. Though the wood and paint are not what is worshipped, they are commonly depicted on wood, canvas, mosaics, or frescoes. They include representations of Christ, the Theotokos (Mary), saints, angels, and significant biblical or historical events. Icons are more than decorative—they are considered windows to the divine, connecting worshippers with the heavenly realm. Orthodox churches feature icons not only on the iconostasis but also on walls, ceilings, and arches. Notably, the apse often displays an icon of Mary with the Christ Child, emphasizing her vital role in the Incarnation. The Pantocrator icon, often found on the ceiling or dome, represents Christ as the ruler of heaven and earth, reflecting His omnipresence and ultimate authority.
Holy Communion
Visitors should note that the Orthodox Church practices closed communion due to theological reasons, following ancient tradition. "Open communion" is a modern practice and was not part of the early Church. However, everyone is welcome to receive antidoron—the blessed bread—offered to all at the end of the Divine Liturgy.
We look forward to welcoming you to our parish of Annunciation. Please see our ‘I’m New’ section in the menu above to plan a visit and learn more.