St. Justin Orthodox Church
Clergy celebrating the Divine Liturgy at St. Justin Orthodox Church

Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

Thinking about visiting? Here is everything you need, and nothing you need to worry about.

  • When Sundays, 9:40 AM (Hours)
  • Where 334 N Frederick St
  • How long About 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Dress Come as you are
Get Directions Let us know you're coming

Before Your First Sunday

Before You Come

When to arrive

Come a little before 9:40 AM if you can, when the Hours (short preparatory prayers) begin. When our priest is with us, the Divine Liturgy follows. If you arrive late, do not worry: in an Orthodox service people quietly come and go, so slip in whenever you get here.

Where to park

Parking details are being confirmed with the parish. Enter through the main door, and someone will be glad to help you find your way.

What to wear

There is no strict dress code, so come as you are. Many dress modestly out of reverence, and some women wear a head covering, but visitors are under no obligation to. You will be standing much of the time, so wear what is comfortable.

How long it lasts

When our priest is with us, the Divine Liturgy lasts about an hour and a half to two hours; a Reader service is shorter. You are free to step out if you need to.

Inside the Temple

What to Expect Inside

The service may feel unfamiliar, and that is completely okay. You do not need to know what to do: you are welcome simply to watch, listen, and pray.

  • You will see people venerating icons (kissing the holy images), lighting candles, making the sign of the cross, and bowing. You are welcome to light a candle if you like, or simply observe.
  • Orthodox Christians traditionally stand for much of the service, but there is seating, so please sit whenever you need to.
  • Almost everything is sung or chanted, and there is incense. The whole Liturgy is a form of prayer; let it wash over you.

A Kind Word to Guests

Holy Communion and the Blessed Bread

Holy Communion in the Orthodox Church is received by Orthodox Christians who have prepared through prayer, fasting, and confession. If you are visiting or are not Orthodox, we warmly welcome you, but please do not come forward for Communion.

Everyone, however, is invited to receive the antidoron (blessed bread) at the end of the service: simply come up when others do. Please never feel awkward. Your presence with us is a gift, and there is no wrong way to be a guest.

Children and Families

Bring Your Family, Exactly as You Are

Children are a joyful part of our parish. You will see them in the service, and no one minds the sounds of little ones. Bring your family exactly as you are.

Please Stay

After the Liturgy

When the service ends, please stay. We share coffee and fellowship, and it is the best time to meet people and to talk with Deacon Seth.

Come with any questions. Nothing is too basic.

First-Visit Questions

Common Questions

Do I have to be Orthodox to visit?
No. Everyone is welcome. As the Gospel says, "Come and see."
What if I've never been to an Orthodox service?
This page is for you. Just watch and pray; no one expects you to know the service.
What should I do when I arrive?
Come in, find a place to stand or sit, and settle in. Feel free to introduce yourself, or simply observe.
Can I take photos?
Please refrain from photos during services out of reverence; you're welcome to ask afterward.
How long is the service?
About 1.5 to 2 hours for the Divine Liturgy.
Is there a dress code?
No strict code; modest and comfortable is ideal.
I want to become Orthodox, where do I start?
Talk with Deacon Seth, and see the Becoming Orthodox page.

For the Inquirer

Exploring Further

Learn About Orthodoxy Start Here Reading Shelf Begin a Rule of Prayer

The best next step is simply to visit, and to talk with the priest.

Optional, No Pressure

Let Us Know You're Coming

You are welcome to just show up. If you would like, tell us you are coming and we will be watching for you.

In the meantime, email us at orthodoxsemo@gmail.com.

Come and see.
The Gospel of John 1:46