by Logan Alexander (Religion Major '18)
Even as we crossed the threshold of the foyer, faint traces of incense could be discerned. Lighting was solemn and dim, though thankfully sufficient for us to make our way to our seats and sit in somber reflection as others filed into the hushed hall. Standing in front of us were images of several saints, one of the closest being St. Nicholas, as this was a commemoration of St. Nicholas Day, which, according to an older way of dividing days, begins at the close of sunset on the fifth of December. In the very back, behind a wall of saints’ images, was an image of the Christ as He was crucified. The flickering flames of a few candles seemed to add to the solemnity of such images and transport one back in time to medieval observances of this very same day by earlier Eastern Orthodox congregations, an effect only slightly spoiled by the modern architecture of the building. As the period of congregate worship commenced, we all stood and would remain standing for most of the service, though there were armrests at standing level to lend assistance if necessary. From sight to sound to smell to touch, then, the senses—including our sense of time—drew our attention to the purpose for which we had gathered.
Throughout the service, the monks recited liturgical passages an orderly manner. Some sections recounted part of the life of St. Nicholas while others consisted of Scripture and prayer. Certain phrases were chanted repeatedly, which had an interesting effect on what was being spoken for those unfamiliar with such practices. Incense of potent spices was distributed around the worship area multiple times, which again recalled ancient worship practices which most in our modern society have not experienced. Other than joining the monks in chanting certain phrases and assenting in the prayers offered, those in attendance were able to participate in the service with light. At certain points, additional candles would be lit, as to show the coming of day and the Light of the world. During the latter part of the service, each person was offered a lighted candle; so, each person had a light of their own and became a part of the growing light throughout the room, and, even as other candles were extinguished, the candles we held remained lit, preserving the light.
Peculiar as this method of worship undoubtedly was to those of us visiting, it was certainly meaningful and engaging in a variety of ways. While appealing to the physical senses, there was a discernible call for spiritual attention as well, urging all who were present to center the mind, heart, and soul on honoring God and remembering Christian brethren who preceded us, thereby also reminding those presently living of the grace we have been given and the responsibility we have inherited. It was an excellent opportunity to open the eyes of adherents to Western traditions within Christianity to those of the East, and, even though there are and will almost certainly continue to be doctrinal disagreements—some very deep indeed—and various traditional preferences, it was a truly wonderful experience to simply stand alongside those who claim the same Lord and together offer up prayer and praise to our God.
Before departing, we made our way to the lower level for refreshments and friendly conversation. The more relaxed setting made it easier to become better acquainted with one another, and it was encouraging to experience such welcome and goodwill. Truly, that evening was unforgettable as well as of immense value both to students of religion and to Christians, broadening one’s perspective and spurring reflection of one’s own traditions and method of worship. Whether simply a student of religion or a fellow Christian or both, I highly recommend attending this observance in the future, if the Lord wills.