All persons of good will are welcome to be present with the monks during worship services. Visitors are encouraged to participate in our services by singing and making the appropriate responses. One of the monks or the regular worshippers will be happy to help you with the book. You might find it easier, on a first or second visit, to simply follow along without the distraction of trying to keep up with the way services jump from one page to another for the various portions of the service.

If you are unfamiliar with the music or format of the services, please follow along quietly while you become accustomed to the chant tones; then, feel free to sing along with us in a quiet voice — but please allow the monks to lead the singing and be careful not to “drown them out”! Monastic worship, while joyful, is conducted in an atmosphere of contemplative gentleness.

In keeping with Orthodox theology and Canon Law, only Orthodox Christians who have properly prepared by fasting and prayer are able to receive the Holy Communion. This is done by approaching the Chalice with one’s arms crossed over the chest, opening one’s mouth widely, and extending the tongue slightly so that the priest may place the Body and Blood of Christ on it.

Non-Orthodox persons are welcome to come forward during the distribution of Holy Communion and ask the priest for a blessing.