Latria or latreia (also known as latreutical worship) is a theological term (Latin Latrīa, from the Greek λατρεία, latreia) used in Catholic theology and Eastern Orthodox theology to mean adoration, a reverence directed only to the Holy Trinity. Latria carries an emphasis on the internal form of worship, rather than external ceremonies.[1][2] Christians took the Greek word λατρεία, present in the Septuagint, into their practice of worship. Latreia, in Greek, means 'service', or 'being in a condition of servitude'. Thus, Christian ministers render service unto God. This Divine Service is worship.
- ^ Catholic beliefs and traditions by John F. O'Grady 2002 ISBN 0-8091-4047-0 page 145
- ^ McGuckin, John Anthony (2020-03-17). The Eastern Orthodox Church: A New History. Yale University Press. p. 152. ISBN 978-0-300-25217-0. Archived from the original on 2023-09-08. Retrieved 2022-07-12.