The Orthodox Divine Liturgy begins with the priest’s blessing: “Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Please try to arrive early enough so you can receive this opening blessing and settle into prayer. If you arrive after the service has begun enter quietly, then wait near the back of the church or in the vestibule until there is a natural pause. Please wait before entering the nave during:

• the Little Entrance or Great Entrance;

• the censing of the icons and congregation;

• the homily; or

• the reading of the Epistle or Gospel.

We come to church on time and with reverence, as though arriving for a great banquet, because we come to partake of the very Body and Blood of Christ our Saviour. Arriving for the Hours before Divine Liturgy gives you time to become settled and pray without distraction.

The Divine Liturgy is a time of prayer, not conversation. An Orthodox Church is a Holy place and should be treated appropriately. This is reflected in how we conduct ourselves. Reverence should be given while in the service, not causing a distraction or bringing attention to ourselves. Although this can be hard to achieve with small children, they are always very welcome. 

Modest, respectful dress is customary in the church.

Please silence phones completely before entering the church and save conversations for the fellowship hours in the basement of the church afterwards.

Standing is the traditional and expected posture for prayer and worship in the Orthodox Church. Whether it is during the Divine Liturgy, as well as during other services. Standing shows respect and alertness before God, much like standing in the presence of a king. Sitting is permitted for the elderly, sick, pregnant women, or those who need to rest.

Those unable to stand for the whole service, remember to stand at these times:

• When the Liturgy begins and the priest gives the blessing

• During the Little and Great Entrances

• When the priest is censing the icons and congregation

• During the Gospel reading

• At the Anaphora (Eucharistic Prayer) Preparation

• For the Consecration of the Holy Gifts and says “Let us stand aright! Let us stand with fear! Let us be attentive, that we may offer the Holy Oblation in peace!”

• For Holy Communion while the holy chalice bearing Christ’s body and blood is in the centre of the church

• At the final Blessing

You will see icons throughout the church — these are "Scripture in pictures." Parishioners often bow and kiss an icon on entering; this venerates the saint or feast shown, not the wood and paint itself. You are welcome to light a candle and offer a silent prayer as you arrive.

Holy Communion is offered to baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians who have prepared through prayer and fasting. All visitors are warmly invited to come forward for the blessed bread (antidoron) at the end of the service, and to join us downstairs for fellowship hour.

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven’.” (Matt. 19:14)

Our Christian Orthodox Church baptizes and chrismates children at a young age to make them full members of the Body of Christ, the Church. As members of the Church, parents are to instruct them to be respectful and quiet during Divine Services. It is never appropriate to allow a child to run down or play in the aisles. In addition, toys that make noise are not permitted in the church. Children should not be allowed to come and go from their pew during Divine Services. Should a young child need a snack, please clear away any leftover pieces. The child should not have anything in his/her mouth when coming forward to receive Holy Communion.

Remember, it is strictly forbidden to chew gum in the church at any time and by anyone.

Children should be taught that the church is God’s House and that special manners are expressed there.

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To Parents With Children

Relax. God put wiggle and curiosity in children; don’t feel you have to suppress it. All are welcome! Children tire of seeing the backs of people’s heads. Sit somewhere where the children can see (even if it’s near the front). Our small little library corner off the sanctuary may seem like a place for your child to be able to release some energy however it is a quiet space and not to be used as a play area.