DID YOU KNOW?

Department of Religious Education (DRE)

ENTERING THE CHURCH

April 4

Did you know there are times to enter and to avoid entering the church during Divine Liturgy?

The most important thing is to make it to church, even if we are running late!

If the Divine Liturgy has already started, we can enter the Narthex (Vestibule) [“lobby” of the church building] but we are to avoid entering the Nave (the main temple) of the church during these times:

When the priest is standing in front of the Royal Doors (Beautiful Gate) facing the laity

When the priest is censing the congregation

When the priest is carrying the Holy Gifts

When the priest is giving the homily (sermon)

When the Epistle and the Gospel are being read

When the Small Entrance and Great Entrance are happening

When the Holy Gifts are being consecrated (the Anaphora)

When the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer are being recited

Also, during these times, we avoid leaving the Nave unless it is for family needs, medical or some other necessary reason.

If you are unsure when to enter or leave the church, ask a church usher or parishioner for guidance.

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