We're delighted that you'll be visiting! 

Attending our Sunday morning service is the perfect way to experience Orthodoxy firsthand! Here is some information you might find helpful.

• When are your services?

Sunday mornings at 9:30 AM. The service schedule, special feast days and holidays are all detailed and available on this website. 

• What should I wear?

There is no formal dress code — many people wear business casual. Wear what you feel is respectful and comfortable. 

• What should I do when I arrive?

Come in and find a comfortable spot to sit or stand. There is no expectation for you to do anything else. 

• I'm coming to your church. Do you have greeters or someone to help me navigate your church and services?

Yes we do! All of our parishioners are excited you've joined us! Our greeters are all here to help you get acquainted with our service, processes, fellowship and programming. We have a 5-person team to help answer any questions, sit with you during the service if you prefer, and in general make sure you have a fantastic experience.  Ask our church office, Father Petro or anyone in our parish who those individuals are: 1. Murray Kendrick 2. Darcey Leadbetter 3. Carol Shewchuk 4. Marta Ziarno and 5. Natalie Zuidema. We'll also make sure to approach you, so don't worry if you have any questions! We love getting to know new people!

• What happens during the service?

You may see people lighting candles, crossing themselves, or kissing icons — you're welcome to do so if you wish, but there's no pressure. Observing quietly is completely fine. Participate only in the parts you feel comfortable with. 

• Can I receive Holy Communion?

Holy Communion is reserved for active Orthodox Christians who have prepared through confession and prayer. You may be offered extra blessed bread after the service, please feel welcome to receive this or not, at your leisure. 

• At what age are children permitted to receive Holy Communion in the Orthodox tradition?

In the Orthodox tradition, baptized and chrismated infants and children may receive Holy Communion from the time of their baptism. There is no "First Communion" as in some other traditions—Orthodox children commune from their earliest days, just like adults. We encourage parents to prepare their children spiritually and reverently, and to model proper behaviour and prayerful participation in the service.

Children who are not yet baptized are, of course, still welcome to attend services with their families. If you have questions about having your child baptized or how to prepare them for receiving the sacraments, please speak with the priest.

• At what age do children need to go to Confession before Communion?

Orthodox children may receive Holy Communion from the time of Baptism. Around the age of 7, when a child is able to understand right and wrong, they are encouraged to prepare for and make their first Confession. At first, this preparation is guided by the parents, and later on, it is reinforced during Sunday School sessions. From that time onward, they should go to Confession regularly, especially before major feast days and during the fasting seasons, in preparation for receiving the Eucharist.

• I'm visiting your church and also bringing our children.

• How long is the service?

Sunday service is usually an hour and a half. Fellowship when volunteers have organized, usually run from after the service for an hour. You’re welcome to attend that too, and get to know us a little better.

• Will anyone explain what’s going on?

During the service itself, not really — we encourage you simply to observe and take it all in. Orthodox worship is rich with beauty, movement, music, and symbolism. Use all your senses and let yourself be immersed in the experience — there's no need to understand everything right away.

Having said that, ask questions! If someone is nearby, or introduced themselves to you on arrival feel free to ask any questions. Sometimes during the service although we have prayer books, it can get confusing. Enjoy the experience, but never feel ashamed to ask a question.

• Is there parking available?

Yes! There is a parking lot behind the church. Parking is free.

• What if I arrive late?

Join the club! It’s perfectly ok if you end up arriving late. Simply enter whenever you arrive and join us. There’s no need to feel self-conscious — we’re just glad you’re here. 

• What if I’m not sure what I believe?

You’re in the right place. Participating in Orthodox worship doesn’t require you to have everything figured out — not even close. After all, babies and toddlers are fully part of our services, and they don’t know what they believe either!

As long as you're willing to come and listen with an open heart, you’re exactly where you need to be. 

• Can I bring a friend?

Of course! Many people feel more comfortable visiting with someone. All are welcome, whether it’s their first time in church or their hundredth.

• Is the service in English?

No, it is a mixture of English and Ukrainian. As this originated as a Ukrainian church, we still worship in Ukrainian; but for many years now we’ve also been worshiping in English. Our intent is to make sure everyone feels welcome, so we are trying for 50% English and 50% Ukrainian languages. This is our objective. 

• Do I need to do anything special before visiting?

No special preparation is needed — just come as you are. If you’d like to let us know you're coming, we’d be happy to greet you personally. Just email Father Petro petrotsenov@gmail.com or our President, Natalie Zuidema nat.zuidema@gmail.com

• Accessibility and washrooms

Our church and hall is fully accessible, for more information please see our accessibility tab. If you need to use a washroom, we have them downstairs under the church, as well as in the hall attached to the church.

Only when we have the hall rented, do we limit access.

• Hall Rentals

Yes, our hall can be used for personal or business events! If you want to learn more about that, feel free to contact Rita, our Hall Manager at hallforrent1@gmail.com