What to Expect
An Introduction to Church Etiquette

Entering the Church

We extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all who visit our parish for worship. As you enter the narthex, you are invited to light a candle and set aside the cares of this world, preparing your heart as you step into the nave (sanctuary) to worship our Lord and Creator.

The services of Great Vespers, Orthros, and the Divine Liturgy may seem unfamiliar or lengthy to those new to the Orthodox Christian tradition. We encourage you to participate by observing, listening, and prayerfully immersing yourself in the beauty of the ancient services, which engage both body and soul. Together, we offer worship to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Our children worship with us. If you have young children, they are welcome here, too. If you need to step to the back of the Church, or enter into the quiet room with your child for any reason, you are not disturbing us. We expect Christian children to be raised in the Church; to do that, they must be part of the body of the Church.

Holy Eucharist (Communion)

The Holy Eucharist (Communion) is reserved for baptized Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves through prayer, fasting, and recent confession. However, all are invited to come forward at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy to receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron—blessed bread given “instead of the Gifts.” If you would like to receive a blessing during the distribution of Holy Communion, you may approach the priest with your arms crossed over your chest as a sign of reverence, and introduce yourself to Fr. George, or Fr. Simeon.

Proper Attire

As we draw closer to Christ, Our God, by entering His Holy-dwelling place, we should dress not only our souls but our bodies as well, which should be in a manner befitting being in the presence of His majesty and glory. Our clothing should always reflect the dignity of being created in His likeness and image. Our attire should, therefore, be modest and respectful.  Women should attend services with their shoulders covered and wearing slacks or skirts of appropriate length. They may cover their heads, if they’d like, but not necessary. Men should wear long pants and either a collared shirt or a dress shirt with a tie. It is not appropriate to wear sneakers or casual sandals.

Please note, that we also ask men and women to not cross their legs during the Divine Liturgy. In the Divine Liturgy, the body is seen as participating in prayer. Standing attentively—with feet planted and posture upright—is a sign of respect before God. Crossing legs can come across (rightly or wrongly) as casual, relaxed, or even dismissive in that sacred setting. We also ask women to refrain from wearing lipstick so as not to leave marks on the icons, and the spoon used for the Holy Eucharist.

Departing the Church

It is appropriate to leave the Nave (Sanctuary) respectfully.  At the close of services, the faithful should approach the priest as guided by the ushers, kiss, or venerate the Holy Cross held by the priest after having received the antidoron (blessed bread). After walking to the back of the nave, it is customary to turn toward the Holy Altar, bow, and make the sign of the cross.