NEW TO ORTHODOXY

Walking through our doors for the first time, you'll be greeted in our entrance area, what we call the Narthex. This space serves as a transition from the outside world into sacred time and space. Here you'll find candle stands and icons (holy images). Our ushers will welcome you, answer questions, and can introduce you to other parishioners after the Divine Liturgy if you'd like.

Through the double doors is the main body of the Church, the Nave. This space is adorned with icons, many of them painted, or written if you are translating from the Greek, by our parish priest, Fr. Tom. Icons remind us that we worship alongside the saints and angels.

Our main Sunday service, the Divine Liturgy, engages all the senses in worship. Candles and incense create the atmosphere of peace that has characterized Orthodox worship for two thousand years. The choir and congregation sing ancient hymns and prayers together. You'll probably notice that we Orthodox move a lot in prayer, frequently crossing ourselves and periodically bowing down.

The Divine Liturgy culminates in Holy Communion, which the faithful receive directly from the priest. At the end of the service, everyone is welcome to receive blessed bread.

There's a lot to take in.

Please don't worry about doing things "right." Even longtime parishioners are still learning. You're welcome to simply observe, or to participate as you feel comfortable. Remember Christ's invitation: "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

After the service, we hope you will stay for coffee hour, meet our community, and ask any questions you might have.