[The_Reader_David]

Actually the usual "commotion" during the early part of an Orthodox Liturgy consists of the faithful lighting candles and putting them in either brass holders (Slavic) or trays of sand (Greek) with prayers for loved ones living or departed, and praying before and venerating various icons or reliquaries.

Generally only those newly arrived do this, though sometimes it takes a while if one wants to light candles for lots of people and have either reason ask several different saints' intercessions or particular devotion to serval saints. On the other hand since usually the Liturgy begins after Orthros (which began at a fixed time, and may vary in length), people tend to arrive throughout the early part of the service. (That this is permissible is recognized by the fact that 'tardiness' does not count as lack of preparation to receive the Mysteries unless one misses the Gospel.)

[Snuffington]

Thanks very much for your insight!