Welcome to All Saints of North America Orthodox Church
If you’ve never attended an Orthodox Christian service before, you may be wondering what to expect. Whether you’re simply curious, exploring Christianity, or looking for a church to call home, we warmly welcome you.
At All Saints of North America Orthodox Church, we know that visiting a new church can feel intimidating. Our hope is that this guide helps you feel prepared and at ease so that you can focus on worshiping God and experiencing the beauty of the ancient Christian faith.
Who Is Welcome?
Everyone who wishes to learn to love Christ Jesus is welcome to attend our services.
You do not need to be Orthodox to visit.
You do not need an invitation.
Whether you are Christian, from another faith tradition, or have never attended church before, we invite you to come and experience Orthodox worship.
When Should I Arrive?
We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before the service begins.
This gives you time to:
- Find parking
- Enter the church quietly
- Light a candle if you wish
- Look around
- Meet one of our parishioners
- Ask any questions before the service begins
If you arrive after the service has started, simply enter quietly. It is probably just the reading service of the Hours, preparing for the full Divine Liturgy.
People come and go throughout the service, so don’t worry if you’re late.
What Should I Wear?
There is no formal dress code, but we encourage modest, comfortable clothing.
Many men wear:
- Slacks
- Khakis
- Dress shirts
- Polo shirts
- Tshirts without lettering (unless Christian tshirts!)
Many women wear:
- Dresses
- Skirts
- Modest blouses
- Dress pants
Head coverings are a longstanding Christian tradition for women, but are not required for visitors.
The most important thing is that you come.
What Happens During the Service?
Orthodox worship based on how God is worshipped in heaven, as we see it in the book of Revelation, for example.
Our worship is unlike any modern church services.
Rather than focusing on entertainment or a sermon alone, the Divine Liturgy is centered on worship, prayer, Scripture, and Holy Communion.
Throughout the service you will notice:
- Beautiful chanting
- Incense
- Candles
- Icons
- Scripture readings
- Prayers sung by the congregation
- Frequent signs of the Cross
- Bowing and reverence
The Divine Liturgy has remained substantially the same for well over a thousand years and reflects the worship of the early Church.
Will I Know What’s Going On?
Probably not—and that’s perfectly okay.
Most first-time visitors spend their first service simply observing.
We are comfortable with Mystery. There is no expectation that you understand everything immediately.
Feel free to stand quietly, listen, and pray.
Over time, the richness and meaning of the services become increasingly familiar.
Do I Need to Stand the Whole Time?
Orthodox Christians generally stand during much of the Divine Liturgy as a sign of attentiveness and reverence.
However, there are chairs available for anyone who needs them.
If you need to sit, please do so without concern. No one is judging you.
If you cannot find an available chair, see one of our deacons or choir members. They will find you a spot to sit.
What About My Children?
Children are always welcome.
Orthodox worship includes children because we believe they are full members of the Church.
Children may:
- Stand with their families
- Move around quietly
- Ask questions
- Become restless from time to time
Don’t worry if your children make a little noise. If too mobile or loud, they can always be taken out for a short time and brought back in.
God put the wiggle in your children, we don’t try to get it out.
Families are an important part of parish life.
What About Holy Communion?
Holy Communion is the most sacred act of Orthodox Christian worship.
Because receiving Communion expresses full unity of faith and life within the Orthodox Church, only baptized Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves according to the Church’s practice receive Holy Communion.
If you are visiting, please do not feel singled out by remaining in your place during Communion. Many visitors do the same.
We would be happy to answer any questions you have about becoming Orthodox after the service.
Can I Receive a Blessing Instead?
If you are not Orthodox, you are welcome to approach the priest after the service to introduce yourself and ask for his blessing if you wish. If you’re unsure of the local custom, simply ask a parishioner or speak with the priest after the service.
What Are Icons?
Icons are sacred images of Christ, His Mother, the saints, and events from Holy Scripture.
They are the family portraits of God’s house.
Orthodox Christians never, ever worship icons. (God forbid!)
Rather, we honor the persons depicted in them, much as one might respectfully kiss a photograph of a loved one. Icons remind us that God became man in Jesus Christ and that Christians are called to become holy through His grace.
You are welcome to observe others venerating icons, but visitors are under no obligation to do so.
Why Is There Incense?
Incense has been used in Christian worship since the earliest centuries and has its roots in the worship of ancient Israel.
The rising incense symbolizes our prayers ascending to God and reminds us of His presence among His people.
Plus, researchers are rediscovering the health benefits of frankincense.
Will Anyone Pressure Me?
No.
We won’t do anything to make your feel awkward or embarrased. We hope you’ll stay for coffee hour after the service, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet members of the parish in a relaxed setting.
If you’d rather leave quietly after the service, that’s perfectly fine as well. Our rule is “Come when you can, leave when you have to.”
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Divine Liturgy?
Most Divine Liturgies last about 90 minutes to two hours.
Do I need to know Russian?
No. Our services are celebrated entirely in English, with some portions occasionally sung in other vernacular languages (such as Spanish).
Can I ask questions?
Absolutely. Our clergy, some of the most knowledgable in the Phoenix valley, and our parishioners are always happy to answer questions after the service.
Is there Sunday School?
For adults, yes. An in person class is held at the end of our Coffee hour for inquirers, catechumens, or anyone who has questions. For our children, we want them worshipping with us. If you want to raise children in the Church, they have to be in the Church. we do not remove them for separate classes.
Is there parking?
Yes. Free parking is available on church property.
Can I become Orthodox?
Yes. Many members of our parish came from Protestant, Catholic, or non-Christian backgrounds.
If you are interested in learning more, speak with the priest after the service. He can explain the process of becoming Orthodox and answer any questions you may have.
We Look Forward to Meeting You
Visiting a new church can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to know everything before you come.
Simply come as you are.
Dress comfortably and modestly.
Join us in prayer.
Experience the beauty of Orthodox Christian worship.
Whether you are searching for a church home or simply exploring the Christian faith, we would be honored to welcome you to All Saints of North America Orthodox Church.
