There are a number of behaviors by a few or even just one (depending) that need to be addressed, but I’m sure how to go about it without being embarrassed, embarrassing someone else, or receiving a public comment as to how what I am observing is not reality. I will attempt it here, but I will also help others individually properly understand church protocol and etiquette. I might first start by recognizing that I understand for many, church is more about the individual and not so much the community. Church is about both, done in community.

One enters an Orthodox Church on time (during the hours), piously and even with some trepidation as we will encounter the fearful and living God in a way that cannot be done anywhere else. As we enter we go to the center icon (Slavic style) and then to Christ and His Most Holy Mother and then quietly, without drawing attention to ourselves, take our place ready to enter the timeless realm of the Kingdom of God. During the Divine Liturgy, Orthodox Christians become transformed being in the presence of Christ. The climax of this experience is the reception of Holy Communion. It is custom in our community, following the benediction (final blessing) that we remain in the church for the reading of the Prayers of Thanksgiving – giving thanks to God that we have received His precious Body and Blood and in the process were not consumed by His Divine Fire! Once the Prayers of Thanksgiving are over, Orthodox Christians receive the blessing of God by kissing His holy cross and the hand of His servant, the lowly and worthless priest whose hand is mystically the hand of Christ, who has been blessing you throughout the Liturgy.

I am asking you to consider all of the aberrant behaviors not listed above that seem to have become common place in our community. Ask yourselves, is this activity something we do during the Divine Liturgy and in particular during the reading of the Scriptures, during the sermon or Holy Communion?

I know some of the ladies need to leave to set up the meal. I am hoping there is a way, after coming to the cross? But I don’t know what is required. I ask that this not be a time of socializing while the community is praying.

Please feel free to contact Fr. Lawrence for questions or to visit. 719-347-1211 Rector@MaryMagdalenechurch.org  Welcome to all visitors!