Church iconSaint George ChurchZelenogorsk, Krasavitsa

First visit

First visit

A simple guide for those who are just beginning to visit an Orthodox church and want to come without anxiety.

Choose a service

Where to start

Just come and stand quietly

You do not need to know the whole order of Orthodox worship before your first visit. Come to a service, stand where you feel comfortable and observe respectfully.

If you want to light a candle, submit a prayer note, ask about confession or simply understand where to stand, ask after the service or speak to the candle desk.

If you are thinking about confession or Communion, speak with a priest. This is better than trying to solve everything from random advice online.

Service scheduleAsk the parish

Do I need to know everything before coming to church?

No. A normal first step is simply to come to a service, stand quietly, listen, pray as you can and ask questions afterwards.

How should I dress?

Come modestly and respectfully. It is better to avoid clothing that is too revealing, but the first concern is reverence, not anxiety about details.

May I come with children?

Yes. Children are a living part of parish life. You do not need to wait for a perfect age or perfect behavior.

What if I do not understand the service?

That is normal. Orthodox worship opens gradually. At first it is enough to be present, watch, listen and return.