medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
----- Original Message -----
From: "George R. Hoelzeman" <[log in to unmask]>
> - It is my impression that while orienting churches, et al was standard
practice in the East,
The East was/is accustomed to all-night Vigils which comprise Vespers,
Matins and Liturgy. These all-night events are still fairly normal
practice in Orthodox monasteries.
The singing of the Great Doxology (Gloria in excelsis Deo) is timed, if
possible, to coincide with the first light of day to break through the small
window above and behind the altar table. As the first light comes through
the window, the priest raises his hands and proclaims: Glory to thee who
hast shown us the light, and the singers commence, Glory to God in the
highest and on earth...
The Great Doxology is believed to be from the 3rd century, some say even
from the 1st.
This breaking of the daylight is one reason why Eastern churches are
invariably oriented to the East.
And of course there are other reasons.... light comes from the East,
darkness and the devil from the West. Christ's return will be from the
East, etc.
Sorry that all this is unreferenced but it provides an idea of what to start
looking for with regard to Eastern Christians.
Hieromonk Ambrose
-oOo-
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