The Western Rite
Many of our laity, as well as our monastics follow the divine offices according to the Benedictine or Sarum pattern. For the moment, we primarily use the Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom for our Eucharistic Services. We have, however, contributed significant work the the Orthodox Church's use and understanding of what is called the ‘Sarum Rite’. It is an ancient use that was first codified out of pre-existing British liturgical practices in Salisbury, or 'Sarum'.
Our communities, in their keeping of the divine office, use the Benedictine and Sarum liturgies of the hours in their respective communities. We use and promote them in the Orthodox Church because we believe they have an eternal value and witness within the Church.
The people of Britain still feel a connection between themselves, their land, their churches, and their heritage. The Sarum Rite is the pre-eminent ancient rite of the British people and deserves to be celebrated and propagated. It speaks both to the Orthodoxy of our forefathers as well as to the development of our lands and the people who lived here before us.
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However, we have always been aware of the importance of our people being able to pray with their Orthodox brothers and sisters throughout the world. For that reason, a familiarity with the words and rhythm of the Byzantine liturgies is extremely important. As our communities make themselves at home within Antioch and the Archdiocese here in the UK, we welcome this mutual enrichment, as we serve come together for our Eucharistic celebrations according to the Liturgies of St. John Chrysostom, St. Basil, and St. Gregory the Dialogist.
Baptism and Chrismation
The road to joining the Orthodox Faith is through the progression of becoming a Catechumen, being Baptised and being Chrismated.
These are the mysteries given to the Church by which a man, woman or child is born again into a new life, one which is dedicated to participating in the divinity of Christ, and to participating in the sacraments of the Church.
In the Orthodox Church we would normally ask that adult converts undergo a period of reflection and instruction in the Catechumenate, followed by a Baptism before being Chrismated.
Confession
Confession is the mystery through which the penitent receives forgiveness of his sins.
While this may be intimidating for some at first, invariably it is a very liberating and spiritually uplifting experience. In the Church we use a manual of confession, which assists the penitent, and guides them through potential instances in their lives that they would like to ask forgiveness for. This is followed by a discussion, and then absolution is given.
It is not possible under any circumstance at all for the priest to reveal what has been said in confession.
We ask that all members of the Orthodox Church who come to receive communion, first make themselves known to a clergyman to ensure they are properly prepared with fasting and confession.
The clergy at our churches are available to hear confessions up to 30 minutes before the scheduled start of services.
Marriage
The sacrament of Marriage is the union of a man and a woman before God with the purpose of following Christ and his Gospel and, when possible, raising up a faithful, holy family through that union.
If you are thinking about getting married, please contact one of our priests and make an appointment to see him, or send a general enquiry by email.
Holy Unction (Annointing of the Sick)
The mystery of anointing provides both physical and spiritual healing with holy oil, blessed by the Holy Spirit.
The Church believes that the oil carries God’s grace both to renew the body, and to cleanse the spirit. It has been down the centuries a source of immense comfort to the faithful in physical difficulty, and when close to death, and asks for the patience to accept the will of God whatever the physical outcome may be.
One of our priests is always on hand when needed to perform this rite, and we ask that you contact him as soon as possible if it is needed.