NEW TO ORTHODOXY

When is the service and how long is it?

The main Sunday service, Divine Liturgy, begins at 9:30am and typically lasts about 1½ hours. You are also invited to join us for Orthros (morning prayers) beforehand, from 8:30 to 9:30am. After services, everyone is welcome to stay for coffee hour and fellowship.

Do I have to be Orthodox (or Greek) to attend?

Not at all. Everyone is welcome to attend and experience Orthodox worship with us. Our services are in English, and our community includes people from many different backgrounds.

Is the service in Greek? 

Our services are conducted in English. Some hymns and prayers are repeated in Greek, but the liturgy itself is in English and accessible to newcomers without any knowledge of Greek.

What should I wear?

Business casual is appropriate, but we never want concern about clothes to keep you from church. Dress comfortably and modestly. Clothing should be modest enough to cover both shoulders and knees. Because Orthodox Christians stand for most of the service, we recommend comfortable shoes.

Some women in our parish cover their hair during worship; others do not. In the Greek Orthodox tradition, veiling is not an expectation. Either practice is welcome, and there is no pressure either way. Men are asked to remove hats during the service.

Can I take pictures?

We ask that you refrain from taking photos or videos during services to keep the prayerful atmosphere. Please silence all mobile devices before entering the church. If you'd like photos of the church, you're welcome to take them before or after services.

Do I need to bring a Bible? 

No. Bibles and hymnals are available at the seats. For services other than the Divine Liturgy, service books are provided that include the relevant Psalms, epistles, and Gospel readings.

Is there parking available?

Yes. Should the parking lot fill up, there's plenty of street parking nearby.

What if I arrive late?

Don't worry; come in quietly and join us. Sometimes our ushers may ask you to wait a moment before entering during particular moments of the service.

Where should I sit or stand?

Anywhere you're comfortable. Standing is traditional but sitting is perfectly fine. If you're not sure where to go, any of our ushers can help.

Can I bring my coffee or snack into church? 

Please do not bring food or beverages into the nave (the main worship area). In worship we try to maintain a reverent focus on Christ. In addition, Orthodox Christians fast in preparation for receiving Communion, so coffee or food can be a distraction to those around you. If you or your child must eat or drink during the service, we ask that you step into the fellowship hall first. After the Divine Liturgy, we typically have coffee hour, a light meal, and fellowship. Please join us!

If I'm not Orthodox, what should I do during Holy Communion?

Visitors may remain at their place during Communion. At the end of the service, everyone is invited to receive blessed bread (antidoron) from the priest. If you're an inquirer or catechumen, please speak with Fr. Tom about coming forward for a blessing.

Are children welcome?

Absolutely. Orthodox worship is for the whole family. See During the Service for more on worshipping with children.

Is there childcare? 

No. Children worship alongside their parents during the Divine Liturgy and other services. Coloring pages, children's books, and other resources are available. See During the Service for more on worshipping with children.

How do I support the parish? 

We're genuinely just happy to have you worship with us. If you'd like to support Holy Apostles, there are donation boxes near the candle stands. You can also give online or by mail. Learn more here.

Where can I learn more about becoming Orthodox? 

Please speak with Fr. Tom after any service, or contact him here. Holy Apostles offers inquirer's classes for those interested in learning more or beginning the catechumen process. You can also read about Baptism and Chrismation, the sacraments through which a person is received into the Orthodox Church.

What jurisdiction is Holy Apostles?

We are a church of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America under the Metropolis of San Francisco, in canonical communion with the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.