Re: pews within the Church

James: I agree with you wholeheartily. I have been in many Greek Chuches in the NY area, where I think the word convert is not often heard. These congragations seem comfortable with their pews, and God forbid, stained glass windows. Glorious light filled icons. Even though more tied in many ways to their ethnic roots, these churches seem to have adopted western ways, without becoming Orthodox light. Is this all necssary? I find coming from a protestant background that prostrations seem showy to me. I am not being proud when I do not participate in that posture. I am uncomfortable before other people. In some churches the use of one's back for a lectern also somehow puts me off. These are ethnic custom, so be it, but not my ethnic custom. The physical manifestations of the faith are fine and good for those who wish to express themselves in these various manner; however, I will keep my humble presence as I wish; knowing that I am doing what I can to be in the posture of worship where I can best worship and be aprt of the experience of God within Orthodoxy.