Visitors
Welcome to St. George!
We are blessed that you are here. Whether you are a longtime parishioner or a first-time visitor, we pray that your time with us will be filled with peace, joy, and the presence of our Lord.
This guide is not meant to judge or burden anyone. Rather, it is offered for personal reflection and to help each of us grow in reverence, love, and understanding of our shared worship. Practices may vary among Orthodox communities, but here at St. George, our deepest desire is to keep our hearts fixed on prayer and the worship of God above all else.
Entering the Narthex¹
When we first step inside, we take a moment to quiet our hearts. The Narthex is where we prepare ourselves to enter the holy space of the Church.
Here, we may light a candle — a small flame symbolizing our prayers rising to heaven and the light of Christ in our midst. One may choose a single candle for the stand, or a seven-day candle which a Parish Council² member will place at the front of the Church near the iconostasis³. For safety, please assist young children with candle lighting.
It is also customary to venerate⁴ the icons⁵, kissing the hands or feet of the holy person depicted (rather than the face) as a sign of love and respect. Please refrain from wearing lipstick when kissing icons, so that they remain clean for all who come to pray.
Entering the Nave⁶
The Nave is the main area of the Church where we gather for worship. Out of reverence for the service, we enter quietly, using the side aisles rather than the center aisle.
If a priest is facing the congregation, or during sacred moments such as the Small or Great Entrances, the reading of Scripture, the Consecration of the Holy Gifts (Holy Communion⁷), or the recitation of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer, we wait until the moment passes before entering. Parish Council members will be near the doors to help guide us.
Avoid blocking the aisles so that all — including those with wheelchairs or walkers — may move freely and safely.
Exiting the Church
The service concludes with the final blessing from the priest, followed by the distribution of the Antidoron⁸ (Holy Bread). After receiving, we walk toward the back of the Nave. Before leaving, we turn toward the altar⁹, bow, and make the sign of the Cross — a simple gesture of gratitude and farewell before stepping back into the world.
Pious Customs
The Orthodox Church has many beautiful customs that help us worship with body as well as soul:
The Sign of the Cross – We cross ourselves at the mention of the Holy Trinity; upon entering or leaving the Nave; at the beginning of Liturgy; when passing the altar; when venerating an icon, the Gospel, or the Cross; and whenever moved to offer a personal prayer. Our hand forms the shape of the Trinity (thumb, index, and middle finger together) and the two natures of Christ¹⁰ (ring and pinky finger against the palm), moving forehead → navel → right shoulder → left shoulder, ending with a hand over the heart. Bowing – A slight bow can be made during petitions to Christ or the Theotokos¹¹, and when receiving Holy Communion. Kneeling – Kneeling is most common during the Consecration of the Holy Gifts, but not during the Paschal season (from Pascha to Pentecost), as we stand in honor of the Resurrection.
- v While the Church is rich in tradition, do not feel obligated or pressured to practice everything right from the start
Receiving Holy Communion
Holy Communion is reserved for those baptized¹² and chrismated Orthodox Christians. Those not yet baptized in the Church are warmly invited to come forward for a blessing, simply bowing their head before the priest. All may partake of the blessed bread, the Antidoron.
Receiving the Antidoron
The Antidoron is blessed bread given to all present after Communion and again at the close of the Divine Liturgy¹³. Handle it with care so crumbs are not lost. If any piece does fall, please gather it and return it to the earth outside, never to the trash. Young children may need help to receive and hold it gently.
During the Liturgy
Clothing – We dress in modesty and respect, remembering we stand before God. Men may wear dress pants and collared shirts; women may wear dresses, skirts, or modest dress pants. Please avoid overly casual or revealing clothing, and refrain from wearing hats inside. Socializing – Save conversations for after the service; in the Nave, let our words be prayers. Phones & Photography – Silence phones completely and step out quietly if needed for emergencies. Photos should be taken respectfully, mindful of the worship. Seating – Sit toward the middle of pews to make room for others entering. Welcoming Guests – If you see a newcomer, greet them warmly and offer to help them follow along. Lipstick – Remove lipstick when venerating icons and receiving Communion. Posture – Keep hands and legs in attentive positions, refraining from crossing arms or legs during prayer. Eating & Drinking – Only water if needed; otherwise, refrain from food or gum during the service.
Children in Worship
We rejoice to have children in our midst! Their voices and movement remind us that the Church is alive and growing. Welcome them with smiles and kindness.
Parents, know that God put the wiggle in children. Sit where your little ones can see the altar; quietly explain what is happening; sing and pray together. Quiet toys or children’s books may help them engage. If they become restless, step out briefly and return when ready. Our nursery and Sunday School programs are available as well.
Fellowship After Liturgy
After the Divine Liturgy, please join us for refreshments and conversation. This is a time to deepen friendships, welcome visitors, and rejoice together as a family in Christ.
Stewardship
Our Church is sustained through the time, talents, and offerings of her people. Each gift — whether in service, skill, or financial support — is a blessing that helps us carry out the ministry God has entrusted to us.
In Closing
If all of this seems like a lot to remember, take heart. You will learn by being here. If you are uncertain, simply follow the example of others, and never hesitate to ask a priest, a Parish Council member, or a fellow parishioner for guidance. Above all, come with a prayerful heart.
Glory to God for all things!
Glossary of Terms
Narthex – The entry space of the Church where we prepare to enter the Nave. Parish Council – A board or elected group that helps oversee and support parish life. Iconostasis – The decorated screen separating the altar from the congregation. Venerate – To treat with reverence or devotion; to show honor. Icon – A sacred image of Christ, the Theotokos, a saint, or a holy event. Nave – The main body of the Church where the faithful gather. Holy Communion – The Eucharist: the consecrated Body and Blood of Christ received during the Liturgy. Antidoron – Blessed bread distributed at the end of the Divine Liturgy. Altar – The sacred table in the sanctuary behind the iconostas where the Holy Gifts are consecrated. Christ – Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God and Savior of the world. Theotokos – Title for the Virgin Mary, meaning “God-bearer.” Baptized – One who has been received into the Church through the sacrament of Baptism. Divine Liturgy – The central worship service of the Orthodox Church.