What I like about my church

[bpbasilphx]

I read the sad stories of liturgical abuses here and other things about their parishes that cause unhappiness and elsewhere on CAF, and my heart does go out to the puzzled and perplexed.

But I thought I’d share what I LIKE about where we attend Divine Liturgy.

These things are mentioned in no particular order.

I love hearing the faithful singing their hearts out at our services.

I love the palpable excitement as people gather in the Narthex at a Baptism before Sunday Liturgy. It’s almost like they are about to burst into cheers.

I love the clarity of diction of our cantors and readers. And even though I don’t understand Arabic, the Arabic cantor’s diction is so clear I can almost take dictation from it.

It melts my heart to see people thronging to Communion, and even little babes in their parents’ arms receiving the Holy Mysteries.

I love seeing the forest of beeswax tapers before the Iconostas as people pray for the intentions they offer.

It’s moving to see people approach when the Gospel is read and venerate it–reminding me of the people flocking to hear the words of Christ Himself.

I love hearing the Pastor exhoring people to “shake the throne” (his phrase) with their prayers as the sick come to be anointed.

I especially enjoy seeing how people are NOT in a hurry to leave at the end of Sunday Liturgy, but linger for almost as long in the Parish Hall, socializing over refreshments.

These are just some of the things I love about our parish. I thank God every day for it.

 

[catherineajt]

Basil—yes, you have summed up what I love about the Divine Liturgy in our small church. I have yet to see what could be termed a “liturgical abuse” at our parish.

 

[Ted_in_Charlott]

I really love the church that my wife and I attend. I think the Monsignor is a very gifted orator. Our statues and art are spectacular. The church is roomy and also full. Not a bad seat in the place. The music is good. We get through Eucharistic lines quickly. The host tastes like it is supposed to (I have been where it tasted different and made me question it’s validity at different parishes).

The other 2 vicars at the church are kind and nice and preach good homilies. We have adoration on Friday nights which I love. They have a Wednesday night mass, Morning mass and dismiss children (more children than parishioners in some churches). If you want to join a program, there are enough choices that everybody can find something to do.

I’m glad we go there. It is vibrant, growing and a good cross section of the community.