Reading the Service Books While Traveling or at Home
This article is over fifteen years old.
You will want to check out Fr. John Whiteford’s Liturgical Texts and
Resources Site for more recommendations on current liturgical materials
available in English. Nevertheless, this article is still timely due to
current world events that could easily result in many Orthodox
Christians being cut off from their parish churches, if not openly
persecuted. It behooves all those who love Christ and His Holy Church to
know, and to have the materials to do, the Divine Services so that they
may be carried on regardless of one’s ability to attend church.
This article is admittedly out-of-date. A
plethora of service books has appeared since this was first published,
especially from St. John of Kronstadt Press. I do not have time to
research what changes should be made to this article. I am asking that
those more knowledgeable about these things than I please email me any
corrections they think should be made to this compilation. Also, any
changes resulting from variations in Greek practice are also welcome. I
will update the article and announce the major changes, as a service to
all. Thank you.
When Orthodox people have no opportunity
to attend Orthodox divine services, especially in non-Orthodox
countries, then the Church allows and encourages individuals and groups
of Orthodox to read the service books privately, for the preservation of
their faith. Such readings have long been customary in monastic
establishments, hospitals, schools, on shipboard and, in recent times,
by Orthodox in theUSSRand in the diaspora.Readingprayer books or service
books may, at least to some extent, replace church services.
Besides preserving our Orthodox faith, reading services is beneficial because:
1. It teaches us, even in non-Orthodox lands, to remember and honor Orthodox feasts and saints’ days.
2. It acquaints us with the order of church services and with the profound content of our service books.
3. It safeguards us from the danger of sectarian and heterodox influence.
4. It helps parents and teachers raise their children and young adults in the spirit of Orthodoxy.
5. It unites dispersed Orthodox people in our faith and love for the Orthodox Church.
