Catholic-Orthodox Similarities In Liturgy

Both Catholic and Orthodox believers participate in liturgical worship. Indeed, a Catholic believer would probably feel quite comfortable at an Orthodox Divine Liturgy (or Mass). There are a number of similarities between Catholic and Orthodox orders of worship:

• Order

The liturgies are ordered the same. The liturgy is broken up into two basic parts -- the liturgy of the word, and the liturgy of the faithful (or communion). The liturgy of the word contains prayers of praise, thanksgiving, and petition, and scriptural readings, followed by a homily or sermon. The liturgy of the faithful contains the recitation of the Nicene Creed, prayers of confession and repentance, the Lord's Prayer, and the sacrament of communion for faithful members in good standing.

• Wording

The liturgies contain similar wording. Catholics say Kyrie Eleison or Lord have mercy in one particular place, while the Orthodox say Kyrie Eleison throughout the litanies, but the request that God rain down His peace and love upon us is there. The Gloria is found in both liturgies in similar form. The Priest blesses the faithful by saying Peace be with you and the people respond And with your spirit. The Nicene Creed and Lord's Prayer are both recited.

• Hymnography

While there is greater diversity in Catholic hymnography, both liturgies involve the singing of hymns and recitation of psalms, in numerous places.