Orthodox Actions

Join the right thumb and first two fingertips, fold the other two fingers into the palm, then touch the forehead, chest, right shoulder, and left shoulder.

A bow is a separate movement, not an automatic part of this gesture.

Incline the head forward.

Unlike a waist bow, this does not direct you to bend the upper body.

Bend the upper body forward from the waist, then straighten up.

This instruction does not add the hand-to-ground contact of a small metania.

Incline forward, then return upright.

This service does not specify the depth of the bow or direct you to touch the floor.

Make the sign of the Cross, bend from the waist, touch the ground with the right fingertips, and straighten up.

Unlike a full prostration, the knees and forehead do not go to the ground.

Lower yourself onto your knees, touch your forehead to the ground, and rise.

Unlike sustained kneeling, a prostration includes ground contact with the forehead and a return to standing.

Stand attentively for the indicated section.

Standing is a continuing posture, not a bow repeated with each line.

Sit attentively for the indicated reading.

Permission to sit during one reading does not apply to every part of the service.

Lower your knees to the ground and remain kneeling for the indicated section.

Kneeling does not by itself direct you to touch your forehead to the ground.

Hold your arms crossed over your chest while approaching to receive Communion.

This is a held arm position, not the sign of the Cross.

Kiss the depicted hands and feet of Christ on the Shroud.

Veneration is separate from the prostrations that the service appoints before and after it.

Point toward your bed while saying the prayer of St. John of Damascus.

This points toward the bed; it does not direct you to lie down.

Kiss your Cross before saying the Prayer to the Precious Cross.

This venerates your Cross, not the Shroud or a depicted part of Christ's body.

Make the sign of the Cross over your bed, from head to foot and either side, while saying the Prayer to the Precious Cross.

The gesture is made over the bed, not over your own body.