Come, Let Us Worship: A Practical Guide to the Divine Liturgy for Orthodox Laity

by Patrick B. O'Grady

Come, Let Us Worship walks the reader through the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, explaining the meaning of each element and how the congregant may best participate in this fundamental act of Orthodox worship. Those new to Orthodoxy and those who wonder about the meaning of the Liturgy will find this small guide a helpful and informative companion.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christianity, Faith

96 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 10, 2016

Reviews

[Michael O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book explaining the Orthodox Church's Divine Liturgy in plain language that's easy to understand. For those new to Orthodoxy or visiting an Orthodox Church service particularly for those from an Evangelical or non-liturgical background, seeing the Diving Liturgy can seem variously beautiful, meaningful, and baffling at different times or even at the same time.

This book breaks it down for us quite well. Fr. Patrick takes it step by step from start to finish. He provides historical context from the days of the Early Church that led to certain portions of the worship being done the the way it is now. He also explains the Divine Liturgy such that its logical flow from first entering church to worship to the priest's homily to the Eucharist to dismissal.

In addition, he provides helpful pointers to us laymen on ways to worship more effectively and also proper ways to show courtesy to others and honor towards the Lord.

For someone new to Orthodoxy, I think that, as I was advised when I first considered visiting an Orthodox Church, it's best to just go --- without being worried about being out of place or doing the wrong thing and just take it all in. I've always found my fellow worshipers to be very understanding and welcoming to visitors! Then having seen a worship service or two, then meet with the priest --- and read this book --- it really is a great at explaining what you just observed and what it's purpose and meaning are. This is also a great book for cradle Orthodox ---- there probably are more than a few that have been worshiping for a long time but would find benefit from this book as a refresher on the Liturgy. All in all, again, this is a great book that I will be referencing during my Christian walk and using for teaching my own children about Orthodox worship.

[Nancy Parcels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Come, Let Us Worship is definitely a book every Orthodox Christian should have on their shelf, especially if you have children. I started incorporating this book in my 7 year old son’s homeschool catechism class. We have both absolutely loved it. It breaks down the liturgy into easy to read sections and thorough explanations of the Divine Liturgy. My son even brought this book to church with him a few times to try to follow along and get a deeper understanding of what is going on. I will say that this book is NOT an easy read for a child at all. I have had to read this book to my son and explain. However, it has helped me with giving my son accurate explanations. Being born into the faith I learned SO much from this book. There are several appendices that explain preparation for Holy Communion, Laymen entering and serving in the Holy Altar, Vespers and Orthos, and a very thorough glossary of religious words. I highly suggest this book for all Orthodox Christians from children to adults and no matter how long you have been with the Faith.

[Alex Szurkus · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Come, Let Us Worship" by Rev. Patrick B. O'Grady shines as an indispensable resource for navigating Orthodox liturgical worship. While it does not delve deeply into historical or theological intricacies, its true value lies in its practicality as a procedural guide for attendees of the Divine Liturgy. O'Grady's writing is clear and easily digestible, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a newcomer seeking to understand the rituals or a seasoned layman looking for a refresher, this book serves as a trustworthy companion. Its concise nature ensures that it remains portable, allowing worshippers to carry it along for quick reference. Furthermore, O'Grady's emphasis on the importance of cleansing oneself and preparing for the Eucharist adds a layer of spiritual depth, helping readers understand the sacredness of the liturgical experience. Overall, "Come, Let Us Worship" is not only a practical manual for understanding Orthodox liturgical worship but also a guide that enhances one's journey of participation in the Divine Liturgy.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a keeper, a book that I would do well to read again with my growing children. I am the first to admit that there is much that I can still  learn from the Orthodox Church and her services, even as I approach the 11th anniversary of my baptism. Come, Let Us Worship proved to be not only a wonderful refresher on some of the traditions and Tradition of the Orthodox Divine Liturgy, but also served as an introduction to various elements of the Liturgy that previously I did not know. I wish that I had had this book earlier in my journey, but am glad to have it now as a reference if only because it helps me to be aware of areas of instruction that I can share with my children in hopes of helping them more fully experience and participate in the service. I heartily recommend this little book, a quick read, to anyone who is a member of the laity, who is either new to Eastern Orthodoxy, old to Eastern Orthodoxy, or merely wants to know more about the structure of the Divine Liturgy.

[c c · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are converting to the orthodox faith I highly recommend this book it's very easy to read and pocket sized! What's great about this book is that it has so many great pointers and definitely a book you will come back time and time again I recommend taking notes in the book and asking questions to your priest about the Divine Liturgy.

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for beginners!

Great explanation of all aspects of Divine Liturgy! Explains definitions, attitudes, rubrics, etc. I will definitely be reviewing this book as I learn more about the Orthodox faith.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

My brother loaned me this book. We follow a lot of these practices at our church so it was fun to read.

[Jane]

I'd like to read this when it is issued in paperback in spite of my being Orthodox for most of my life. I might know some of this, but I am sure I would learn something new.