Some of the questions visitors ask most often, with short, honest answers. If yours is not here, ask Fr. Tikhon at coffee hour or send a note through the Contact page.
Do I have to be Orthodox, or Slavic, to come?
No. St. Mary’s was founded by Slovak homesteaders in 1904, and we are proud of that heritage, but our parishioners today come from every kind of background, and most were not born Orthodox. Everyone is welcome at every service.
What language are the services in?
English. A hymn or a petition is occasionally sung in Slavonic on a feast day, and it will be noted when that happens.
How long is the service?
The Sunday Divine Liturgy runs about an hour and a half, followed by coffee hour. Saturday Great Vespers is about forty-five minutes.
Is the Orthodox Church the same as the Catholic Church?
We share the first thousand years of Christian history, and much of our worship and belief will feel familiar to a Catholic visitor. The two Churches have been separated since 1054 and differ on some matters of teaching and authority, most visibly on the role of the Pope. Read more about what we believe.
Is this a Russian church?
St. Mary’s belongs to the Orthodox Church in America (OCA), a self-governing American church whose roots go back to Russian missionaries in Alaska. Our founder, St. Tikhon, was the Russian bishop of North America before he became Patriarch of Moscow. Our parish is American, our services are in English, and our members come from all over.
May I receive Communion?
Holy Communion is offered to Orthodox Christians who have prepared for it. If you are a visitor from another tradition, please stay in your place during Communion and come forward at the end of the service for the blessed bread. If you are Orthodox and visiting, please speak with Fr. Tikhon before the Liturgy.
Can I bring my children?
Please do. Children are part of the whole service, and church school meets after the Liturgy from September through Pascha. More here.
Why are there so many icons, and why do people kiss them?
Icons are windows into heaven: images of Christ, His Mother and the saints who are present with us in worship. Kissing an icon is a greeting to the person pictured, the way you might kiss a photograph of someone you love. The honor passes to the one shown, never to the wood and paint.
Why does the priest face away from the people?
He does not, really. For most of the service the priest stands at the head of the congregation, facing the altar with everyone else, leading us all in the same direction. He turns to face the people to bless them, to preach and to bring out the Gospel and the Holy Gifts.
Why do people stand so much?
Standing is the ancient posture of prayer, alert and attentive before God. It is a custom, not a requirement, and seats are always available.
What should I wear?
Dress as you would for a respectful occasion, not a formal one. Most men wear a collared shirt and slacks; most women a dress, skirt or nice pants. Some women cover their heads with a scarf, which is a personal choice at St. Mary’s and not a rule. Please avoid shorts, tank tops and clothing with large slogans. Clean work clothes are fine.
May I take photographs?
Photographs are welcome at baptisms, weddings and feasts, but during the regular Liturgy we ask that you not take pictures. Please silence your phone. Orthodox Christians fast from midnight before Communion, so no one eats or drinks in the church; coffee hour afterward makes up for it.
How do I greet the priest?
Parishioners ask Fr. Tikhon for his blessing, cupping their right hand over their left, and kiss the hand that blesses them. A handshake and a hello are just as welcome from a guest.
I am interested in becoming Orthodox. What is the first step?
Come to services for a while, and talk with Fr. Tikhon. There is no pressure and no timetable. When the time is right, instruction and preparation for reception into the Church can begin. Joining the Church explains what that looks like.
Can I have a wedding, baptism or funeral at St. Mary’s?
Sacraments at St. Mary’s are celebrated for members of the parish and their families, and many situations can be worked out with a conversation. Please call the parish office at 719-789-4797 or reach Fr. Tikhon through the Contact page.