Common Questions

Yes. Visitors are welcome at St. Paul, whether you are exploring Christianity, coming from another Christian tradition, returning to church, or simply curious about Orthodox worship. You do not need to know the service beforehand. Introduce yourself to a greeter or one of the clergy, and feel free to ask questions after the service.

Dress modestly and respectfully, as you would when entering a place of prayer. Business casual clothing is common. The point is not formality for its own sake, but reverence before God and consideration for the worshiping community.

Coptic Orthodox services vary by day and season. Vespers and other evening prayers are usually shorter. Sunday morning often includes the Raising of Incense followed by the Divine Liturgy, which commonly lasts a few hours, including readings, hymns, sermon, Eucharistic prayers, and Communion. Check the church calendar for the current schedule.

Holy Communion is offered to baptized Orthodox Christians who are prepared through confession, fasting, and the blessing of their father of confession. If you are visiting and are not Orthodox, you are warmly invited to pray with us and receive the blessed bread distributed at the end of the Liturgy. If you have questions about Communion or becoming Orthodox, speak with one of the priests.

Participate as you are able. You will see people standing, sitting, making the sign of the cross, bowing, singing responses, and following the prayers on screens or in Coptic Reader. If you are unsure when to stand or sit, follow the congregation or do what you can comfortably. The best way to learn the Liturgy is to keep attending and ask questions.

Standing is the traditional posture of Orthodox prayer, but visitors should not feel anxious about following every movement perfectly. It is especially appropriate to stand during the Gospel reading, the Anaphora and Eucharistic prayers, the distribution of Communion, blessings from the priest, and the dismissal. You may sit when needed, especially if you are elderly, pregnant, caring for children, or physically unable to stand for long periods.

Yes. Lighting candles is a common Orthodox practice connected to prayer and offering. You do not need to be Orthodox to light a candle and pray. Many people light candles when they enter the church, asking God for mercy, guidance, healing, or remembrance of loved ones.

Much of the Coptic Orthodox Liturgy is sung or chanted. The hymns are prayerful, reverent, and rooted in the Church’s worship across many centuries. At St. Paul, services are primarily in English, while some Coptic and Greek responses are preserved because they connect us to the ancient worship of the Church. Deacons help lead the congregation, and visitors are welcome to listen, follow the text, or join in as they become familiar.

Children are welcome in the church services, and their presence is part of their formation in the life of the Church. Parents remain responsible for their children during worship. If a child becomes restless, talkative, or needs a break, it is fine to step out briefly and return when ready.

Yes. St. Paul offers Orthodox Youth Academy for children and youth after the Divine Liturgy. The goal is to help students grow in Scripture, Orthodox faith, prayer, service, fellowship, and love for the Church in a structured, age-appropriate setting.

Start with the Liturgy Guide, the Oriental Orthodox Church guide, Orthodox Faith Course, and the About section. You can also speak with clergy after services or contact the church if you have a question.