Tomorrow, I am going to visit an Orthodox church...what should I expect to do with my kids? I am not at all certain of my kids' ability to stand respectfully for an hour and a half. One is six and the other is seven (and high-functioning autistic).
Please share your experience with us -- privately or publicly.
I am not at all certain of my kids' ability to stand respectfully for an hour and a half
Some Orthodox churches in America have pews, an aberration that has its reasons and history of recent date, and that many of the churches are reversing. Some churches have folding chairs that are not always used. Depending on where you will be, you may or may not have to stand. Traditional churches, such as Russian or Serbian almost never have pews, except those buildings there were acquired from another denomination.
In all Orthodox churches there are seats for the old, sick and the weak, along the walls. People always bring their children to the Divine Liturgy. It is customary to take the children out if they are disrupting the service. In some churches there are special "daycare" rooms where the children can play under supervision.
But, for the most part, children behave. Some sit on the floor. They too understand that this is not just another "adult thing" and that there is something special, so they are fascinated with candles, incense, the singing.
Agrarian explains is the best when he says that standing is a form of fasting, self denial, respect, love. We are in the physical presence of God (literally speaking), which is an awesome and humbling experience. I couldn't imagine sitting.