In this article, we will consider the answer to the frequently asked question of people, especially unchurched, how long the church works. But before we get started, bear in mind that all temples open and close at different times.
In the article you will find answers to questions about the Christian faith, tips and tricks.
What time does the temple open?
Of course, when a service is planned or required, the temple is opened. But how long does the church work? It all depends on the parish, locality, living conditions and even the time of year. Many churches and monasteries in large cities and small villages, in regional centers and settlements in the summer begin to work an hour or half an hour earlier than in winter.
So, what time can I come? Come in the afternoon to that church which you want to get to early in the morning. There may be a schedule of services there. If not, contact a candlestick or priest on duty with a question.
Did you find the schedule? See what time the Divine Liturgy begins. As a rule, in monasteries, service begins very early - at 5 or 6 in the morning. But make sure that the laity (people who do not live in the monastery) are admitted to the territory of the monastery at this time.
In worldly churches (not monastic), worship begins later. In megacities most often at 9 am, and in rural churches - at 7 or 8.
For example, the Pokrovsky monastery, where the relics of the old woman Matrona are located, is open to believers from 8.00 to 20.00. A temple in the same area is open from 9.00. Therefore, specify the time of work.
What time does the church close?
In the evenings before Sunday, and even before the great holidays (church) are evening - all-night. How long does the church work? Service lasts 2-3 hours. Look at the schedule of the temple or ask the candlestick (a woman selling candles, icons, utensils, taking notes at the counter). For example, the evening starts at 16.00. Most likely, the service will end at 18.00. Then the temple closes.
Some people are wondering how long the church works on Sunday. And again, you can only say that it all depends on the rector of the church, town and parish. It happens that in a provincial town the temple closes almost immediately, when the liturgy ends and the water is consecrated (for example, at 11 o’clock). On the other hand, in a big city the temple can work until a later hour.
If there is a big church holiday on Monday, then on Sunday evening the church will be open until the end of the service.
Exceptional case
Many provincial temples are closed most of the time; services are not held every day.
In this case, you should go to the Father Superior. Contact in the following cases:
- Epiphany;
- funeral service;
- wedding;
- confession.
If the priest has everything to fulfill the requirements and the opportunity, then the temple will be opened.
Weekdays in the temple
Most often (especially in big cities) on weekdays and Saturdays, service begins half an hour or one hour earlier than Sunday. After all, church officials know that their parishioners work and study. On the day of a great holiday, they try to serve early. And how long does the church work on weekdays? Usually until 18 or 19 hours (in the metropolis).
When is the best time to go to church?
Many unchurched people believe that visiting a temple is only worthwhile when there are few people or no one there. It is enough to light a candle, stand, pray a little (about five minutes) and run away about your business. But you really can't do that. In the Gospel, Christ says: "Where two or three gather in My name, there I am in the midst of them." I mean, when people pray together with all the people, then the Lord accepts such prayers. For this there are liturgy and all-night services.
We discussed above how long the church works, and you better ask what time the liturgy and all-night service begin? Believe me, there will be more benefit for the soul if you stay in worship from beginning to end.
Why can a temple be closed permanently?
It happens that no one serves in the church. With what it can be connected? Of course, with the absence of a priest. It is possible that the Diocesan Council is deciding where to find the priest. Another reason is the lack of amenities inside the church (lack of an iconostasis, the dangerous state of the building, and so on). Of course, it makes no sense to ask when the church opens and how long the church works in this case.
Well, you and I have examined the issue of the regime of Orthodox churches. Unfortunately, there can be no single answer to this question. After all, each father sets his schedule.