Liturgy in the church

What Do the Parts of the Liturgy Mean?

This is a common question—perhaps you’ve asked it yourself. Below, we explore worship and the parts of the liturgy, originally described in an article by the former Commission on Worship for the Reporter Insert titled “Taking a Tour of Heaven.”

Worship: A Glimpse of Heaven

Worship is unlike anything else in this world. Yet, it has one striking resemblance: heaven itself.

More than 1,000 years ago, a fascinating story unfolded in Russia. Grand Duke Vladimir of Kiev sought a religion for his nation and sent emissaries to explore the major faiths of the time, including Roman Catholicism and Islam. However, it was in Constantinople—at the heart of Orthodox worship—that they encountered something extraordinary.

In their report, the emissaries said:

“We knew not whether we were in heaven or on earth.”

Worship is like that. With one foot on earth and the other in heaven, we experience the splendor of God's presence—not because of elaborate rituals or the depth of our devotion, but because God Himself is present in worship.

Worship as a Foretaste of the Feast to Come

If worship is truly “heaven on earth,” then every word, song, and action in the liturgy reflects this reality. The liturgy offers us a foretaste of the eternal feast awaiting us.

Through this “tour” of the Divine Service, you’ll discover how the ancient texts of the liturgy not only provide a glimpse of heaven but also deliver God's gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation—here and now.