Visit #133 ~ Seeing Open Doors during BRIGHT WEEK!

Normally, during Vespers, the Royal doors are closed and the lights are dimmed in the Nave. However, if, during the service, Fr Gary opens the Royal doors, then the Altar servers turn on the lights as the doors are opening. They have this down to an exact science and it is always a smooth transition. But during Bright Week, the lights were on constantly and all the doors were open! I guess that meant the Altar servers had less to do.:)

I love how in Orthodoxy, all the senses are engaged.  The Royal doors are there to remind us that, behind them, is the Holy of Holies, the very Presence of Christ and, as such, you don't just barge in there like He is some high school buddy.  No, Christ is the Almighty God and we approach Him with the proper awe and reverence that He deserves. Yet, He is not cut off from His people. Rather, He condescends to our level and even takes our flesh upon Himself.

But during Bright week, the Doors are open, showing us how Christ has conquered death and invites us to Life! I did sense the continued Joy of the Pascha Service during this Bright week Vespers and it was wonderful to experience.  I am looking forward to my next service! It is truly a blessing!

So, tell me, do all Orthodox Churches have open doors during Bright week or is that just a custom in some places? Let me know by your comments below.

Christ is Risen!