The Use of English in Worship
Background
The Orthodox Church historically championed having Liturgy in the language of the people (rather than a 'church' language like Latin or Slavonic). Ironcially, in many Orthodox bodies in America, realizing that it is essential to use English in worship has been a slow and unfinished process. Clinging to non-English languages has resulted in a poor evangelistic track record for the Orthodoxy in America, driving away potential converts as well as losing many of the grandchildren of the first immigrants a century ago. While some American bodies have recognized that language is just a tool to communicate the Faith, a few have been unable to separate religion and culture/language.
~ If you visit a local church and feel you need a passport to come back, visit a different Orthodox church next time ~
What You Need to Know
The Orthodox Church is not just a intellectual belief system: it involves the whole person, mental and physical. There are things like fasting and standing a long service that are a lifestyle challenge. There may be teachings that contradict what you were taught to believe that must be prayerfully analyzed and considered. What if not required is the unnecessary burden of feeling that you have to culturally immigrate and learn a foreign language to join the Orthodox Church.
If you visit a church and English is not used for at least 90% of the service, it is best to visit elsewhere.
Before You Visit: find out if the Liturgy is in English.
Background
The Orthodox Church historically championed having Liturgy in the language of the people (rather than a 'church' language like Latin or Slavonic). Ironcially, in many Orthodox bodies in America, realizing that it is essential to use English in worship has been a slow and unfinished process. Clinging to non-English languages has resulted in a poor evangelistic track record for the Orthodoxy in America, driving away potential converts as well as losing many of the grandchildren of the first immigrants a century ago. While some American bodies have recognized that language is just a tool to communicate the Faith, a few have been unable to separate religion and culture/language.
What You Need to Know
The Orthodox Church is not just a intellectual belief system: it involves the whole person, mental and physical. There are things like fasting and standing a long service that are a lifestyle challenge. There may be teachings that contradict what you were taught to believe that must be prayerfully analyzed and considered. What if not required is the unnecessary burden of feeling that you have to culturally immigrate and learn a foreign language to join the Orthodox Church.
If you visit a church and English is not used for at least 90% of the service, it is best to visit elsewhere.
Before You Visit: find out if the Liturgy is in English.