Orthodox Christianity split from the Catholic branch of Christianity about 1054 AD. It is therefore a very old branch of Christianity with many important traditions and ceremonies. It has become increasingly popular in the UK in recent years owing to large numbers of eastern Europeans coming to England for work. The Russian and Greek branches are probably the most influential members. Their distinctive differences of belief are in the seven sacraments or mysteries and the veneration of icons or pictures of the saints.
Owing to the importance of preserving the sacredness of the mysteries of the sacraments and devotion to icons, the architecture of the Orthodox Church reflects a need to have a special place for the clergy. The most sacred parts of the Orthodox Service are thus conducted by clergy behind a wooden screen called an Ikonostasis. This represents the division between heaven and earth and is painted with figures of Christ, Mary and the saints. There are three doors in the screen. The central one is the Royal Door and symbolises the belief that Jesus opened the doors of heaven to humankind. The priest uses this door and is a symbol of Jesus as redeemer returning with the gospels and communion. The communion table or throne of Christ is behind the screen where the priest remains for most of the service.
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