Our Parish

Orthodox Christianity is the ancient Christian faith centered on Jesus Christ, His Resurrection, and life in His Church. Its worship, teachings, and sacramental life continue the faith handed down by the Apostles. At St. Luke, we invite you to discover that faith by joining us in prayer and worship.

You will encounter icons, candles, incense, chanting, Scripture readings, and prayers. People may make the sign of the cross, bow, or venerate icons. You are welcome to observe and listen without knowing every custom. Let someone know you are visiting, and feel free to ask questions after the service.

Choose modest, respectful clothing that is comfortable for worship. You do not need special clothing to visit, and there is no need to purchase an outfit. Comfortable shoes are helpful because Orthodox worship includes standing. If you have questions about parish customs, please contact us.

Children and families are welcome to worship with us. We understand that children make noise and need time to become familiar with services. Parents may step out briefly when needed and return when ready. Please ask a parish member or our clergy if your family needs assistance.

Yes. You are welcome to attend our services whether you are Orthodox, belong to another Christian tradition, follow another faith, or are simply curious. You do not need to become a member before visiting. Come, listen, and take the time you need to learn.

Yes. All services at St. Luke are in English. Our parish includes people from many ethnic and cultural backgrounds, united in the Orthodox Christian faith.

The length varies by service and feast day. A Sunday Divine Liturgy commonly lasts around 90 minutes to two hours; Matins is a separate service beforehand. Our Sunday Matins begins at 8:50am and Divine Liturgy at 10:00am. Arriving a little early gives you time to settle in. Please check the parish calendar for special schedules.

Standing is a traditional posture of prayer, but please sit when you need to, especially for health, age, pregnancy, or fatigue. Visitors are not expected to know every gesture or prayer. Simply observing respectfully is a good way to begin. Ask a parish member if you would like help following the service.

Holy Communion is reserved for Orthodox Christians who are properly prepared and in communion with the Church. If you are not Orthodox, please remain in your place during Communion and join us in prayer. Visiting Orthodox Christians should speak with the priest beforehand about receiving. Our clergy will be glad to explain and answer your questions.

Begin by attending services regularly and speaking with our clergy. Orthodoxy 101 (Learn the Faith) meets on Tuesdays at 7:00pm, following Small Compline at 6:30pm. Our Inquirers and Resources pages offer further reading. Becoming Orthodox is a guided journey of worship, learning, and preparation with the Church; there is no need to rush.

Enter quietly, silence your phone, and be considerate of those praying. You may see people lighting candles, bowing, making the sign of the cross, and venerating icons; visitors may simply observe. If you arrive during a reading, procession, or another solemn moment, pause near the entrance and follow an usher’s guidance. Please ask before taking photographs, and speak with our clergy if you have questions about Communion or other customs.

Icons are sacred images of Jesus Christ, His Mother, the saints, and events in the life of the Church. They help direct our attention to God and remind us of His work in the lives of His people. Orthodox Christians honor, or venerate, icons; we worship God alone. The honor shown to an icon is directed to the person depicted, rather than to the wood or paint. You are welcome to observe without feeling obliged to kiss an icon.

Catechumens are people preparing to be received into the Orthodox Church through a period of instruction, prayer, and participation in parish life. Becoming a catechumen is a step taken with the guidance and blessing of the priest. It gives a person time to grow in understanding and live the faith before being received into the Church.

Start by attending services and meeting with a priest to discuss your questions and background. As you continue learning, the priest may guide you into the catechumenate, a period of preparation that includes worship, instruction, prayer, and growth in the Christian life. When you and the priest discern that you are ready, you are received into the Church through Baptism and/or Chrismation, as directed by the Church. The form of reception and the time of preparation depend on your circumstances and pastoral guidance.