Worship For All the Senses.

The first thing you may notice when you visit us is that Orthodox worship engages all the five senses. The burning candles and oil lamps, the color, form, and placement of the Icons, the music of the choir, the smell of the incense, the taste of the Bread and Wine, all work to focus our entire being on the worshipping the Living God.

Why Are There So Many Candles?

Since the Savior Himself taught that He is the Light of the World (John 8:12), our candles and lamps ultimately refer to His radiance. The Light of Christ illumines all humanity - in fact it enlightens the whole world. Some of our light is provided by oil lamps. These recall the parable of the wise and foolish bridesmaids who kept their vigil for the Bridegroom (Matthew 25:1-13), and help us to remember that we also must keep our watch for His coming again.