Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is this Orthodox Church?

The Orthodox Church is the original Christian Church, the Church founded by the Lord Jesus Christ and described in the pages of the New Testament. Her history can be traced in unbroken continuity all the way back to Christ and His Twelve Apostles. The Coptic Orthodox Church, for instance, was founded by St Mark (one of Christ’s disciples and the Gospel writer) in 43 AD.

The church adheres to the Nicene Creed. St. Athanasius (296-373 A.D.), the twentieth Pope of the Coptic Church effectively defended the Doctrine of the Lord Jesus Christ's Divinity at the Council of Nicea in 325 A.D. His affirmation of the doctrine earned him the title; "Father of Orthodoxy" and St. Athanasius "the Apostolic".

For over twenty centuries the Church has continued in her undiminished and unaltered faith and practice. Today her apostolic doctrine, worship, and structure remain intact. The Orthodox Church maintains that the Church is the living Body of Jesus Christ.

It is our belief that the Ancient Christian Faith remains pertinent in our modern world. We welcome you to visit our Church and begin to learn about the depth of Orthodox Christianity.

For more information on the Coptic Orthodox Church see On the Coptic Church page.

Of course! Guests are always welcome. We believe that God accepts us just as we are and therefore it is our pleasure to accept you just as you are as well. So no matter who you are or where you’ve been or how far you’ve gone, you’re always welcome!

Our Church is called to not only nourish its faithful but also to sanctify its community. We want to share the treasure and spiritual depth that the Orthodox Church has. This is simply because the Orthodox Church from the very earliest Church went out into the world regardless of one’s culture, language, or color.

Feel free to approach folks at Church or the priest to answer any questions you might have. Orthodoxy may seem different at first, but it will begin to feel more and more like home, and will gradually draw you into your true home, the Kingdom of God. Come and check it out for yourself…

The process of becoming an Orthodox Christian can be compared very closely to the process of getting married for it involves the same basic movements of courtship, engagement and marriage. When you first become interested in the Orthodox Church a series of initial interactions take place. Perhaps you might visit for a liturgy, research Orthodoxy on-line, or engage in a conversation with a friend who is Orthodox.

After this a more studied process of inquiry follows which can be compared to the process of courtship – “getting to know each other.” From there you will get to know one of our priests and community well, and can begin formal preparation for being received into the Orthodox Christian Church. Welcome!