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The Orthodox Church

The Orthodox Christian Church, also called the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Greek Orthodox Church, or simply the Orthodox Church, is the oldest Christian Church in the world. It was founded by Jesus Christ, and its beginnings are recorded in the New Testament. Our own Patriarchate of Antioch, one of the most ancient Orthodox churches, was founded in A.D. 34 by Saints Peter and Paul. All other Christian churches and groups can be traced historically back to it.

The Church traces her life in unbroken continuity to Christ and His Twelve Apostles. For more than twenty centuries, she has continued in her undiminished and unaltered faith and practice. The Orthodox Church confesses that the Church is the living Body of Jesus Christ.

With roughly 250 million members worldwide, Orthodoxy is second in size only to the Roman Catholic Church. Yet, in spite of its size, relatively few Americans are aware that it exists.

The Orthodox Church has deep and lasting roots in Christian antiquity and is steeped in rich Biblical tradition. It has been the context of Christian life for millions of people for almost twenty centuries.

The Orthodox Church cannot be understood merely by reading about it. Just as reading a biography is no substitute for knowing its subject personally, Orthodox Christianity must be experienced firsthand to be understood.

Speak with Father David about joining catechism if you would like to learn more about the Orthodox Christian faith.

What to Expect

You are warmly welcome at Saint Thomas. Orthodox worship engages the whole person through prayer, Scripture, icons, incense, candles, and sung responses. If this is new to you, there is no need to know every custom or follow every gesture. Come, observe, pray, and participate as you are comfortable.

Standing is customary for much of Orthodox worship, but you are welcome to sit whenever you need to. Visitors are not expected to make the sign of the cross, bow, or venerate icons. Please silence your phone and refrain from photography during services.

Holy Communion is received by Orthodox Christians. Blessed bread may also be offered after Communion; it is distinct from the Eucharist, and visitors may receive it.

What to Wear

We kindly ask all who enter the church to observe the following out of reverence for the holy space and the sacredness of our worship:

We recommend

• Modest, respectful clothing suitable for standing before the King of Kings

• Long-sleeve, collared or formal shirts for men

• Long dresses or skirts for women, which are traditional in Orthodox settings

• Dress shoes or other formal footwear for all (no flip-flops or bare feet)

• If pants are worn by women, they should be of a dress or business casual style

• If leggings or tights are worn, they should be under a skirt or dress

• For women: head coverings are highly encouraged, though not required at St. Thomas (note that other Orthodox parishes may require them)

Please refrain from

• Shorts, mini-skirts, tight-fitting skirts or dresses

• Leggings worn as pants

• Bare shoulders or low-cut tops

• Sleeveless or strap-only dresses

• Clothing with bare midriffs or open backs

• T-shirts, tank tops, or casual sportswear including sweats

• Jeans (unless no alternative is available)

• Flashy or attention-drawing attire

• Bare feet

The way we dress reflects our understanding of the sacredness of the moment and the One we are encountering in the Divine Liturgy. We encourage dressing with care and reverence not only for the Eucharist but for any time spent in the Nave, including confession, prayer, or choir practice.

Exceptions

We understand there are times when someone may arrive directly from work, school, or an activity and cannot change first. In such cases, please do not hesitate to come as you are—we want you in church! Out of consideration for others, we ask that those in casual or athletic attire remain near the back so as not to distract others during worship.

Etiquette

• Please no photography and cellphone usage during the services

• No eating or drinking in the Church

• No smoking on the Church premises

Children

One of the greatest joys is our children participating in the life and worship of the Church. We ask that children not bring toys or coloring books into the church. If something small and quiet is truly necessary for them to participate peacefully, please consult the priest in advance. Items that make noise or can be dropped and heard should be avoided.

In efforts to maintain a prayerful atmosphere, we kindly ask parents with young children to be especially diligent to make sure children remain quiet during services. When necessary, we ask that you take them to the narthex section of the church (or outside) in cases of uncontrolled crying, agitation, or noise.