Church Etiquette

General Etiquette


It is important that all members and visitors to Annunciation Cathedral follow some basic etiquette rules, to ensure that we maintain an atmosphere where peaceful, meaningful, and distraction-free prayer can occur during all services. Here are some general reminders: 
  • When entering the Church, especially during services, remember that you are in God's House. Be reverent and mindful of others engaged in prayer
  • Refrain from any loud conversations in the Narthex or in any part of the Church while services are being conducted
  • Wear modest and appropriate attire 
  • Refrain from chewing gum
  • Avoid wearing lipstick when venerating the icons and receiving Holy Communion
  • Please make sure your cell phone is on vibrate or silent
  • Whenever the priest faces the people or is outside the altar on the solea, either censing or blessing, everyone should stand wherever he or she is​
  • Bathrooms are located in the basement of the church, and in the church entrance to the left of the altar

During the Divine Liturgy

During the Divine Liturgy, please do not enter the church from the narthex or move around during these parts of the service: 
  1. Procession of the Priest and Altar Boys with the Gospel—Little Entrance
  2. Reading of the Epistle or Gospel
  3. Cherubic Hymn and the Great Entrance with the Holy Gifts
  4. The Nicene Creed
  5. The Hymn 'Se Ymnoumen' and the Consecration of the Holy Gifts (kneeling)
  6. Lord's Prayer
  7. Sermon or Homily
  8. Dismissal Prayer
  9. Any special services—Memorials, Procession of Icons, etc.

Communion Etiquette

Holy Communion is reserved for Orthodox Christians only. Young children are asked come forward first for Holy Communion. Otherwise, please stay seated until you are guided to approach the altar from the center aisle by a council member.

Antidoron

Antidoron is available to everyone following the divine liturgy. Please approach the priest up the center aisle when guided by a council member.

Coffee Hour

After the Divine Liturgy, everyone is invited for coffee and fellowship in the basement of the church.