ARE NON-ORTHODOX VISITORS WELCOME?
Yes, absolutely. We welcome new comers with open arms. All are welcome, regardless what religious denomination you are. If you have questions, the parish priest will be happy to answer them.
So, don’t be afraid to ask questions about what we do and why.The divine Liturgy is usually in the language of English, Coptic, and Arabic to everyone. In addition, we have a large screen for translation presentation that updates continuously during the Liturgy with the prayers. You may follow the service text, or, if you prefer, simply close your eyes and worship.Following the Sunday Divine Liturgy, you are invited to join us for a “light meal or coffee” the church mess hall, which is a good time to get to know our parish members and meet our priest.
HOW LONG ARE THE SERVICES?
On Saturday evenings, the Evening Raising of Incense service (Vespers) is generally 45 minutes in length, including a short homily in Arabic or English. On Sunday mornings, a similar service is celebrated before the Divine Liturgy. Afterwards, the Divine Liturgy is approximately 3 hours in length with an English homily at approximately 9:30 am and the Distribution of the Mystery of the Eucharist from 11:00-11:30 am. YES, the service is long, but truly an unexplained harmony and peace within you. It feels like you have truly worshipped the living God.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE?
The general rule for men and women is to dress modestly and respectfully, as before the living God. It is preferred that you do not wear shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops, low-cut or strapless dresses (unless covered by a sweater, etc.).If you have a medical reason for wearing certain clothing, of course you can wear the clothing item.
During Mass we show our understanding that this is a special time, set apart from our daily routines:
CHILDCARE?
Each parent is responsible to take care of their child. However, if your baby or child gets fussy, talkative, or has a melt-down, THAT IS OK!! However, at times walking outside and change of scenery usually helps calming the child down and just return quietly.
STANDING OR SITTING?
The traditional posture for prayer and worship in the Orthodox Church is to stand, as before the King, our Lord. In many churches in Egypt, there are typically no pews in the churches. Chairs or benches on the side walls are usually reserved for the elderly and parents. However, it is encouraged that you stand during the Gospel reading, the Anaphora through the Institution Narrative, the distribution of the Holy Mystery, when the priest gives a blessing, and at the Dismissal.
IS SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN AVAILABLE?
On Sundays, we provide Sunday school in small groups for children in grades prep through twelve.Sunday school begins 12:00pm and usually lasts for hour.
LIGHTING CANDLES?
Lighting candles is an important part of Orthodox worship and piety. We light candles as we pray, making an offering to accompany our prayers. There are times when candles should not be lit. Candles should not be lit during the Epistle or Gospel readings, and during the sermon. You do not have to be an Orthodox Christian to light a candle and pray!
CAN NON-ORTHODOX RECEIVE THE HOLY EUCHARIST?
Orthodox priests may only serve the Holy Eucharist to baptised members in good standing of the canonical Orthodox Church, who have recently confessed, and fasted before partaking of the Holy Eucharist. This is the ancient tradition of the Holy Church for the 2,000 years of its history.