Early Christianity sprang from Judaism, and “echoes” of ancient Hebrew worship can still be found in the flavor of contemporary Orthodox services. This is proof of two-millennia of steadfastness and constancy in Orthodox liturgical and sacramental life. In the Divine Liturgy, not only do we fully participate in worship, but we also worship fully through the participation of our entire being – with all five human senses.

 

With sight, though the visual beauty of architecture, icons, liturgical articles, and vestments. With smell, through the use of incense which symbolizes our prayers rising to Heaven. With sound, through the music and chanting which represent the choirs of angels in continual praise. With taste, through the Sacrament of Holy Communion. And with touch, through the physical actions of crossing oneself, venerating icons, bowing, and kneeling.