The Orthodox Church sees itself first as a worshipping community with the Eucharist actually defining the governing structure of the church. It (the Eucharist) is the most important act that unites believers together with Christ. It is not just a remembering (Greek word is in active connotation), it is reliving Christ’s divine humanity. The believe that the Body of Christ is "His continuing presence in the world."
They also see a very clear parallel between worship of Israel and the worship of the Church. Governmentally, it is lead by a Bishop (High Priest), then Presbyters (Priests), Deacons (Levites), and finally the Laity (people). There is a line of succession from bishop to bishop.
Many times I’ve been amazed at the parallels from Jewish worship with Christian worship and how deep and meaningful it is. Many people are afraid of worship that’s classified that way, but it really is the worship of the people of God – why should it change?
