Sight

The visual experience draws worshippers' attention to heaven and the saints. 

• Icons: Depicting Christ, the Theotokos (Virgin Mary), saints, and biblical events, icons are considered "windows into heaven". They are venerated through kissing as a sign of respect for the holy person depicted.

• Iconostasis: This elaborate screen covered with icons separates the altar (the heavenly realm) from the nave (the earthly realm), emphasizing the presence of God.

• Priestly vestments: The ornate and brightly colored liturgical robes serve as a visual marker for the sacred event taking place.

• Actions: The ritual actions of the priest, such as incensing and elevating the Eucharistic gifts, are visual cues that represent events in the life of Christ. 

Sound

The liturgy is a continuous melody of chants, prayers, and scripture, engaging the sense of hearing with the Word of God. 

• Chanting: The Divine Liturgy is almost entirely chanted or sung, filling the space with hymns and psalms.

• Choir: The choir, or kliros, leads the congregation in song, with congregational singing being a key feature.

• Gospel reading: The climax of the service's sound is the reading of the Gospel, which is preceded by the priest's call: "Wisdom!  Stand aright!  Let us listen to the holy Gospel.  Peace be with all.  

Smell

Incense and sacramental oils appeal to the sense of smell, signifying the presence of the Holy Spirit. 

• Incense: Frankincense and myrrh are burned in a censer (thurible), filling the church with a sweet-smelling smoke. The rising smoke symbolizes the prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven.

• Holy Chrism: A scented oil (myrrh) is used in the anointing ceremonies of various sacraments, such as Baptism and Chrismation. 

Taste

The most profound sensory encounter is through taste during Holy Communion (the Eucharist). 

• Holy Communion: The faithful receive the Body and Blood of Christ in the form of leavened bread and wine. This intimate act of receiving Christ is considered "tasting heaven".

• Method of reception: The consecrated bread and wine are distributed from a golden spoon, which the communicant receives on their tongue. 

Touch

Worshippers engage physically with sacred items and actions throughout the liturgy. 

• Sign of the Cross: A frequent gesture made with the hand during the service.

• Veneration: Worshippers touch or kiss icons and the Holy Gospel book as a sign of reverence.

• Sacraments: Water is felt during Baptism and holy oils are touched during anointing.