Discovering the Ancient Church

Many Western Christians today feel a growing sense of spiritual restlessness. Whether you come from a Protestant background or a Roman Catholic tradition, you might find yourself searching for something deeper. You look for a worship experience that transcends modern trends, a theology that remains unbroken by cultural shifts, and a community that feels like an authentic family.

For a rapidly increasing number of believers in the Phoenix West Valley, that search leads them straight to the Eastern Orthodox Church. Transitioning from Western Christianity to the Orthodox faith is not a rejection of your love for Christ; rather, it is the fulfillment of that love. It is a homecoming to the ancient, Apostolic Church that has guarded the fullness of the Christian faith without compromise for over two thousand years.

Making this transition can feel daunting, but you do not have to walk the path alone. Nestled in Sun City, Arizona, All Saints of North America Orthodox Church (ASONA) has earned a flawless 5.0-star reputation specifically because it excels at welcoming seekers through this exact spiritual transition.

Unlike historic cathedrals that can sometimes feel large and anonymous, ASONA deliberately fosters a tight-knit, vibrant family atmosphere. Here, the ancient faith feels accessible rather than intimidating. The parish operates with distinct strengths that smooth the transition for anyone coming from a Western background:

• Liturgy Completely in English: ASONA removes the language barrier entirely. The parish chants the traditional Divine Liturgy completely in English, allowing you to fully absorb the profound theology and beauty of the prayers from your very first visit.
• A Culture of Converts: You will find a congregation filled with people who sat in the exact same pews you did. Many of ASONA’s parishioners transitioned from various Protestant denominations, Roman Catholicism, Mormonism, and more. They understand your questions, your hurdles, and your joys.
• A Welcoming Space for Families: Transitioning with children can be tough, but ASONA fiercely champions family worship. The community actively encourages children to participate in the services alongside their parents, creating a warm, multi-generational environment.

If you are a Protestant pastor or a Catholic priest looking toward Orthodoxy, your transition carries a unique set of profound challenges and sacrifices. You are not just changing your Sunday routine; you are stepping down from the pulpit, re-examining your theological training, and often risking your livelihood to follow the truth.

At ASONA, Archpriest John A. Peck provides targeted, highly experienced pastoral guidance for clergy making this monumental shift. The parish honors your past ministry and recognizes that your love for the Scriptures is a beautiful foundation.

Here, you will find a safe haven to lay down the heavy burden of leadership for a season, allowing yourself to simply heal, learn, and be fed by the ancient mysteries of the Church as a catechumen. ASONA offers you a community that respects your unique sacrifices and actively supports you as you transition from teaching to receiving the fullness of Apostolic Christianity.

The Orthodox Church does not ask you to throw away what you loved about your Western heritage—your love for the Bible, your devotion to prayer, and your desire for fellowship. Instead, it deepens them.

If you feel the pull toward the ancient roots of the Christianity, come and see. Join the community at All Saints of North America this Sunday. Stand in the beauty of the Liturgy, experiernce the joy, peace, and mystery of the ancient Christian faith, stay for the fellowship meal afterward, and experience the warmth of a parish family that is ready to walk with you every step of the way.

• Address: 18700 N 107th Ave Unit 5, Sun City, AZ 85373
• Sunday Divine Liturgy: 9:30 AM (Hours begin at 9:00 AM)
• Website: arizonaorthodox.com