Spirituality

spiritualitySome differences between Eastern and Western worship styles.

  • There are icons rather than statues
  • The altar traditionally faces the East.
  • There is an icon screen separating the sanctuary from the body of the church
  • The priest and congregation face the East.
  • Before entering the pew or passing in front of the tabernacle parishioners bow from the waist.
  • We cross themselves from right to left.
  • We do not kneel during Sunday Liturgy – because Sunday Liturgy is a celebration of Christ’s resurrection and standing is considered a sign of respect.
  • We receive the Eucharist from the priest on a spoon under the species of both bread and wine.
  • No musical instruments are used – you will hear vocal music.You may fulfill your Sunday obligation by attending Liturgy in any Catholic Church, Western or Eastern.