The first part of the Orthodox Church is the Narthex, which represents the outside world. As one passes through The Narthex into the Nave (The Main Church), it symbolizes the entrance into the kingdom of heaven.

Present in The Narthex is the icon of the Patron Saint of The Church, the icon of the Virgin Mary, and the icon of the feast of the day. On Sundays is the icon depicting the Gospel. The faithful show respect by making the sign of the cross before the icons upon entering.

It's also where the Faithful light a candle for the health of family members or a friend. Candles are also lit for the soul of a deceased Orthodox person. They represent the light of Christ and the hope of everlasting life. When we light a candle, we pray for the person for whom we lit it. So the candles are to be respected and to let burn for respected times.