Visiting for the First Time
I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord (Ps 122.1)
Welcome to the Orthodox Church of the Annunciation in Santa Maria, California! We are a welcoming, growing parish with many young families and converts from all religious backgrounds.
The best way to begin experiencing Orthodoxy is simply to “come and see” (John 1:39). Please see our Service Schedule for upcoming services and you can email Fr Justin (frjustin@odox.org) if you would like to speak with our priest before visiting.
After Divine Liturgy on Sundays, we also invite you to join us for Coffee Hour in the social hall next to the church for some food and fellowship, where we would love to say hello and meet you. Most of us were also first-time visitors once. We are looking forward to meeting you!
Here are a few great resources for inquirers and/or those looking to attend an Orthodox service for the first time:
- “Visiting an Orthodox Church for the First Time? What You Should Know,” is a great introductory video by a local Orthodox priest, Fr John Valadez.
- “Introduction to the Divine Liturgy” is a brief look at what happens in the ancient Orthodox Divine Liturgy, as well as a few things to expect when you visit.
If you would like to correspond or talk with someone before you visit, please visit our Contact Page or send Fr Justin an email at frjustin@odox.org.
We look forward to welcoming you!
* A Note on Holy Communion:
Orthodox Christians view Holy Communion as deeply, awesomely holy, and are mindful of St. Paul’s words, “whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.” (1 Cor 11:2-28)
We know that it is not by our own efforts but only God’s grace that can make us worthy of partaking in Communion with Him. But to prepare and “examine ourselves” before Communion we fast, pray, examine our hearts and actions, and repent and confess our sins, seeking absolution from God. All are called to God’s table, but please respect this ancient and vulnerable Christian sacrament, and do not come up for Holy Communion without speaking to our priest before the services begin about appropriately preparing.
Communion is reserved only for Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves in the correct manner. Blessed bread is offered to all at the end of Divine Liturgy.
